Dear DDP Community,
As you are no doubt aware, the situation with the Coronavirus in the UK is changing from day to day. At a national level, this is understandably causing some anxiety and uncertainty about upcoming events and the need to contingency plan as best we can, given that this is a developing situation.
As of today (6th March 2020), central government advice indicates that the risk to the UK is ‘moderate’. This does not mean that risk to individuals has increased, it simply means that it is prudent to consider contingency planning.
Advice indicates that there is no current need for large-scale closures of events or businesses, and that most people can continue to go to work, school and other public places. Current advice is only to stay away from public places (self-isolate) if advised by the 111 online coronavirus service or a medical professional.
It is therefore anticipated that DDP events (training, SIGs, etc) will continue as planned unless central government public health advice changes, or in response to specific localised conditions.
Should the need to cancel or postpone events arise, we will endeavour to work with providers to keep you updated, including via the website and social media outlets. Please do bear with us during this time of uncertainty. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding an event that you are booked onto, please contact the host organisation in the first instance for local information. Please be aware we have no control over decision made by any individual businesses, organisations, or providers who may wish to cancel or postpone events in response to local circumstances.
DDPI is considering the current situation and will communicate soon.
As this situation may fluctuate daily, please continue to check information available on government public health & NHS websites for the most up to date information and advice:
- Department for Health & Social Care / Public Health England – Coronavirus (COVID-19): latest information and advice
- Health Protection Scotland – Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance
- Department of Health Northern Ireland – Coronavirus (Covid 19) update for Northern Ireland
- Welsh Government – Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance
- NHS Information – Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance
Talking to children about Coronavirus
Lots of children might have worries about Coronavirus, what it is, and how they might catch it. In having conversations with children about Coronavirus, you may find the following resources helpful:
BBC Newsround with Dr Chris & Dr Xand: https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/51342366
Wicklow Triple A Alliance
If you can’t see the Facebook post below, you can visit it on the Wicklow Triple A Alliance page directly.
