From Monday 19th July, all remaining limits on social contact are removed. People may meet with whom and with as many as they wish, both indoors and outdoors. Social distancing is no longer demanded in any setting, and there are no restrictions on the numbers at weddings, funerals and other life events.
However, infections continue to rise, the Government recommends continuing caution. Good ventilation, diligence in hygiene, wearing a face covering in enclosed and crowded spaces, and limiting contact with those we do not live with, are all seen as beneficial behaviours.
At Wantage Baptist, we believe that the freedom to worship is vital for the life of the local church. We also take seriously our responsibility to protect our people and the wider community. We hope the following areas will reassure those who would like to join our worshipping community.
You should not visit the church in person if:
– you have any symptoms of COVID-19 (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste).
– you’ve tested positive for COVID. This means you have the virus.
– someone you live with has symptoms or tested positive.
– you’ve been told you’ve been in contact with someone who tested positive.
– you have arrived in England from abroad from a ‘red list’ country, or from an ‘amber list’ country and not been fully vaccinated
HYGIENE
– Sanitisers are in place for when you enter and move through the building – please use these as you enter.
– Multi-touch surfaces (e.g. handles and railings) will be kept clean.
– We will both our side porches open, both for ventilation and safe exiting.
FACE MASKS
– Face masks are not mandatory.
– Remember, face coverings principally protect others, not yourself.
– Hand-washing and distancing are still advised.
SEATING
– We will look to have some distance between seating groups for a time.
– We strongly encourage households / bubbles to sit together.
– When you enter the main church hall, please take a seat and avoid moving around the room.
– You will still be able to chat freely with those around you.
– We will ‘reserve’ the balcony and back wall seats for those who feel more comfortable wearing a mask and / or sitting a little more distanced from the congregation.
Please don’t feel you must sit in these areas. They are available for those who wish to.