Dear Member,

I am writing to update you on the readiness level for our three metros following the changes to the government guidance and subsequent updates from The Scouts and the National Youth Agency.

The National Youth Agency have advised that the essential youth sector is exempt from the new government guidance and most parts of the Country, including Wigan Metro (Lilford and Wigan Districts) can continue at the AMBER readiness level.

However, due to the local restrictions still in place for parts of Greater Manchester, including both Salford and Trafford, those areas remain at the RED readiness level. Therefore there is no change to the previously communicated readiness levels for the metros that make up Greater Manchester West.

The current readiness levels in Greater Manchester West:

Please remember groups currently operating at the AMBER readiness level can restart once risk assessments have been reviewed and approved locally by your District Commissioner reflecting the changes brought into effect by The Scouts on 3rd September 2020.

I appreciate that this uncertain time is causing lots of confusion and anxiety about returning to face-to-face Scouting, however I would like to reiterate from previous calls and communications that there is absolutely no rush to return if you or your team are not comfortable.

If this is the case, you should work with your GSL and DC to explore options of returning to face-to-face Scouting in the safest way for both volunteers and young people.

Please continue to check guidance from HQ and the coronavirus information hub on our website, www.gmwscouts.org.uk/coronavirus

Full guidance from UK Scouts on ‘getting everyone back together safely’ can be found by clicking here.

Thank-you for your continued support.

Kind Regards,
Andy

Andy Farrell
County Commissioner