We wanted to drop you a line about Gorebridge Community Development Trusts response to Coronavirus, in particular the Gorebridge Beacon.

Right now, we are operating the Beacon as normal. This week, one group who use the hub for their own activities postponed until after Easter and we have had a couple of external conference cancellations that were due to take place in the coming weeks. Right now all community led classes are running and the cafe is open as normal.

Of course, this may change, we are carefully monitoring the situation and we will share as we see appropriate on social media. We are following advice, communication and information from SCVO (Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations), MVA (Midlothian Voluntary Action), and like you, the Scottish Government.

Currently we have not postponed any of our upcoming events, classes or events, nor feel it necessary to close the cafe (bear in mind this may change in the coming weeks).

The Community Fridge remains open.

We have discussed as a staff team and created a plan and we may need to review our response quickly.

We have to show due diligence and care to all users, the community, our staff and volunteers. It’s really important to remind people that if they feel unwell (suspected COVID-19) to stay away from the Beacon and self-isolate to protect yourself, and others, especially the most vulnerable .

Below is some advice (again, based on NHS) which you might find useful:

1. Wash your hands regularly, for a minimum of 20 seconds – after going to the loo obviously, but also after coughing, sneezing and public transport travelling. It’s also been recommended that people avoid touching their faces.

2. Avoid sneezing or coughing without covering your mouth and nose. Ideally, you’d have a tissue, but the official guidance is to use your elbow if you don’t have one to hand. Dispose of used tissues quickly in an appropriate manner.

3. If you know of any particularly vulnerable or elderly audience members, perhaps check on them to make sure they aren’t too worried.

4. Following advice, we may choose to close the Beacon for a while. If this happens, we will keep everyone informed to the best of our ability here and on social media.

5. Again, at present, it appears that there is no need to cancel any bookings, classes or events – though we will keep our eye on this and recommend others do the same.

That’s it for now. Will update as needed.

Dawn Barclay, Trust Manager

Useful Links

https://scvo.org.uk/coronavirus-covid-19-information-guidance

https://scvo.org.uk/coronavirus-covid-19-information-guidance/what-can-we-do-to-protect-support-staff-volunteers-beneficiaries-service-users

This is a community event, a veterinary nurse will carry out a basic health check, which includes checking eyes, ears, teeth and weight, to make sure your dog is happy, fit and healthy. Alongside the health check, the team will provide advice on diet, training and neutering. Each owner will be provided with a responsible dog ownership pack, including handy tips and useful resources for you to continue to use at home.

Visit the Dogs Trust here