Opening Village Halls and Community Centres

Councillor Stephen Thompson welcomed the latest Dumfries and Galloway Council crib sheet to help groups that manage and operate community centres or village halls understand how to restart and open safely. There is no prescriptive advice from Scottish Government in the Phase 3 update of 23rd September 2020 and it is the responsibility of the hall operator to carry out a documented risk assessment based on local circumstances. This is based on safety first, minimising risk of infection, and taking measure to protect participants, staff and volunteers. SportScotland have advice as well for opening gyms, activity halls, bowling halls, dance, yoga, and so on (and so forth). Some key bullet points to consider: • As compliance with the national guidelines is a condition of reopening, it’s recommended that hall owners / operators / groups to wait until the appropriate guidance is published by the Scottish Government. • Not all halls will be opening right away – groups who do not own their meeting place should check with the hall owner / operator. • Most insurers have stated that groups will not be covered unless they comply with the national guidance being issued. The Council will try and support any groups or management committees so get in touch using the details below if you have any questions. Wigtownshire: CommunityAssets-Wigtown@dumgal.gov.uk Stewartry: CommunityAssets-Stewartry@dumgal.gov.uk Nithsdale: CommunityAssets-Nithsdale@dumgal.gov.uk Annandale & Eskdale: CommunityAssets-Annandale&Eskdale@dumgal.gov.uk Or call 030 3333 3000 and ask to speak with your local Community Assets Officer