This page is updated with the latest announcements as to how CHBC is responding to the coronavirus situation. If you have any concerns or questions, please contact: Richard Molloy richardlmolloy@gmail.com
LATEST UPDATE – 1st july 2022
Following a review of current advice and general practice, the diaconate and Church Meeting have agreed the following changes to our Policy regarding Covid-19:
- Wearing of face masks is now optional for all CHBC activities;
- All signage will be updated, including the removal of signs on the toilet doors.
The following will continue as before:
- “Respect lanyards’ will still be available. (If an individual is particularly concerned about maintaining their personal space these are available in the foyer to make others aware of their concerns and can act appropriately);
- Masks will still be available in the foyer;
- The ‘socially distanced’ seating area in the lounge will remain for use on Sunday mornings;
- Hand sanitiser stations will remain in place;
- The request that any individual, or any member of their household, displaying COVID like symptoms or generally not feeling well, join the service online rather than in person. Other members of that household should also consider staying at home;
- We will continue to monitor air quality during services and ventilate as appropriate.
We will continue to keep these measures under review. If you have any queries, please contact Richard Molloy (richardlmolloy@gmail.com).
Update – 11th FEBRUARY 2022
Further to the changes to the restrictions announced by the Government on the 22 January, the diaconate have reviewed the available guidance from the Government and the Baptist Union and have agreed the following changes to our Policy on the wearing of face masks.
From Friday 11 February 2022 we are no longer mandating the wearing of face masks for all those (over the age of 11 years) that are attending a Church service, or other organised activities within the Church building.
However, as we wish to be as inclusive as possible we would encourage everyone (over the age of 11 years) to still wear face masks in Church Services and for other organised activities. This is to respect others, being aware of our age demographic and the number of vulnerable individuals attending activities within the church.
If an individual is particularly concerned about maintaining their personal space they have the opportunity to wear one of the black and gold “Respect lanyards”, available in the foyer, so that others are aware of their concerns and can act appropriately.
During hospitality such as after service refreshments, it is obviously not practicable to wear a mask and individuals who have concerns will need to consider if they wish to partake.
In addition to the above we will retain the 2m spacing of the chairs in the lounge, continue to monitor air quality during services and ventilate the Sanctuary and lounge when required, and continue with the provision of hand sanitisers and enhanced cleaning measures.
Finally we would ask that individuals and families who are displaying COVID symptoms or not feeling well join the service on-line rather than in person. We will keep these measures under review and update as soon as it is appropriate to do so.
UPDATE — 10th december 2021
Important update on wearing masks
Further to the recent announcement by the Prime minister and the introduction of enhanced measures to reduce the spread of the Omicron Covid variant, the deacons have agreed the following changes to our Policy on the wearing of face masks.
From Friday 10 December 2021 we require all those (over the age of 11 years) that are attending a Church service, or other organised activities within the Church buildings, to wear a face mask at all times, unless you are medically exempt. Please note that a face shield is in addition to a face mask unless exempt.
Those in an ‘upfront’ role in main services (including singers) and anyone attending a hospitality event is exempt (during the meal time). Those leading groups are being asked to keep in mind the need to regularly ventilate any room being used and to continue to encourage good hygiene practice. Thank you for your continued support in this matter as we work together as a church family.
We will keep these measures under review and update as soon as it is appropriate to do so.
17th March 2020
Following guidance announced and published on Monday, the following meetings are now suspended until further notice: Thursday morning prayer meetings; Friday’s 3:16 Youth Club. The following general event has also been suspended: Thrive Juniors (Sat 28th Mar).
As updates continue to come out daily, the diaconate have delayed making other decisions until we meet this Thursday evening to discuss the latest recommendations. We will publish any further announcements on Friday. In addition, guidance is being complied on how we respond pastorally, but safely, to this developing situation.
The leadership continue to listen carefully and prayerfully to the recommendations coming from our government, the NHS and the Baptist Union. As we listen to this and one another we seek to discern the best decisions we can for our community. We appreciate your continued support and prayers.
Blessings,
Kevin, on behalf of the diaconate.
Past updates
General Advice
