Men’s Own RFC Informative 1 - Date: 16-03-2020
The Men’s Own RFC Executive Committee (EC) would like to update members regarding the Club’s policy on the COVID-19 variant of the coronavirus particularly amid the cancellation of major sporting events. We would like to reassure you that the Club is keeping the situation under constant review and will henceforth issue updates via our social media outlets and Website on the Club’s position on the matter.
For now, the RFU’s advice is that clubs should follow the latest Government & Public Health England’s guidance. Further relevant information can be found here:
• UK GOV: Number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk in the UK.
• UK GOV: Foreign travel advice.
• NHS: Coronavirus (COVID-19)
There is currently no recommendation, from the Government or the RFU, that clubs should cancel or postpone events. As such NMORFC does not, CURRENTLY, plan to cancel or postpone any Club matches, training or functions or to restrict access to the Clubhouse. At both a senior and junior level.
However, if Government guidelines changes in this regard, we will follow this & inform members as soon as practically possible.
Meanwhile, we ask that all NMORFC members read and adhere to all the Government advice (see links above).
In line with recommended advice and before attending the club or away fixtures that:
• If you develop a cough or fever or shortness of breath (or believe that you may have contracted the virus or been exposed to it), you self-isolate for a minimum of 7 days, even if symptoms are mild. Then only attend the Club if advised by a qualified medical professional that it is safe to do this.
• Anyone who has decided to or has been advised to self-isolate does not come to the Clubhouse or engage in matches / training; you must also alert the Club’s Safeguarding Officer (safeguarding@mensownrfc.co.uk) or the club Secretary (secretary@mensownrfc.co.uk). To enable them to understand the history of your recent movements at the club and inform those who you have been in contact with at the club.
• Anyone who receives a positive diagnosis of Coronavirus must not attend the Club and follows advice at:www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/. Again: it is vital that you inform the Club’s Safeguarding Officer for the reason set out above.
• If you know of members required to self-isolate (or are required to do this), contact the Safeguarding Officer.

We also ask that everyone:

1. washes hands frequently & thoroughly using soap / hot water or a 70% alcohol sanitiser
2. avoids touching their face, eyes & mouth.
3. always carries tissues and uses them to catch any coughs or sneezes – and disposes of tissues carefully in the nearest bin.
4. avoids close contact during greetings – elbow nudges not handshakes & kisses! We will not be initiation handshakes at the end of matches, until otherwise directed, but will form a tunnel at the end of matches
5. players must be directed to use their own water bottles and towels and must not share these items
6. alerts Coaches if they decide to opt out of Club activities for the time being (without presence of symptoms or any apparent exposure)

As you will appreciate advice regarding this virus changes on a daily basis and the Club will continue to monitor it very closely as we possibly can. However, we do need members to act in a responsible manner, particularly Parents & Juniors when it comes to ensuring hygiene procedures are adhered to when attending the Club.
The welfare of our members, both young and old is paramount in this matter and we are confident that as a Club we can come through this uncertain time and be stronger for it.
Yours in Rugby,
Glenn Nightingale
Mens Own RFC Secretary