The UK government has advised that everyone in the UK should now avoid “non-essential” travel and contact with others to fight COVID-19. While no ban has been issuedon public gatherings of any size either indoors or outdoors at this stage, the advice is to avoid non-essential contact with others, including going to sporting events, pubs, clubs, theatres, and social venues.
As a result, UKCA advises that all face-to-face activity such as group training sessions, small group training, boot camps, sports clubs events, courses,and social/charity events should be suspended and you should continue to follow government advice.
This decision has been taken in the interests of tutors, learners, coaches, club attendees, and our wider communities. UKCA will continue to review and monitor government advice and will provide updates in the coming weeks.
Where possible, we encourage everyone to maintain their own personal fitness and keep active during this time while following government guidelines about safe distance and safe exercise environments.
UKCA Courses
All face to face qualification courses planned during March, April, and May have been postponed. Everyone who has booked onto a course will receive an email informing them of the postponement and their ability to defer the booking.
Social Distancing and Advice
Social distancing measures (as defined by Public Health England as spending more than 15 minutes and within a 2-metre distance talking to someone) are now advised not only if we test positive or have symptoms, but in day to day life. As well as current travel advice, the UK government is advising anyone with a “new, continuous” cough or high temperature and those they live with need to self-isolate for 14 days.
At-Risk Groups
The latest advice from the government’s Chief Medical Adviser is that those over 70 currently do not need to be self-isolating. However, in the coming days, every person over the age of 70 and those in at-risk groups will be advised to be “largely shielded from social contact” for 12 weeks to help protect themselves. Those with underlying medical issues, such as high blood pressure, lung complaints and weakened or compromised immune systems, are more likely to develop serious illness as a result of Coronavirus.
Anyone with a higher risk from viruses, such as cold or flu, should take sensible steps to reduce the risk of picking up infections. Click here for NHS advice on infection control – it is summarised below:
• wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
• always wash your hands when you get home or in to work
• use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
• cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
• put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
• avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of Coronavirus
• use phone, online services, or apps to contact your GP surgery or other NHS services
Click here for a list of government guidelines on hygiene.
Thank you for your continued support during this uncertain time.
Many thanks
UKCA Board
