As you may be aware, the rules from Wednesday 2nd December return to the 3 tier system. 

In all tiers we are allowed to meet in public outdoor spaces. The public guidelines state we can only meet in groups of up to 6 people, which on the surface suggests we need to limit our group sizes to 6.

However, the new rules are aimed at stopping informal groups of people gathering, whereas walks run by an organisation, will have the relevant risk assessments and COVID checks in place, including a robust track and trace capability.

Organised group walks are categorised as ‘outdoor physical activity events’, which are exempt from the “Rule of 6”. The Government Guidance states that organised outdoor sports, physical activity and exercise classes are allowed. We have confirmed this with the Government website and appropriate governing bodies.

We are obviously only allowed as we have already met the protocols (such as an adequate Track and Trace capability) and put extra measures in place to reduce the risks of COVID-19.

With good social distancing practices, as an organisation, we can continue safely with groups of up to 30. Individual walk leaders may prefer to have a lower number which we will manage on an individual basis.

Although we may have an overall group of up to 30 we will look to keep them in smaller groups of up to 6. This way we keep the social aspect intact but reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus.

Rest assured we will ensure all our leaders are kept up to date with the rules. We are following the government guidelines closely, and if anything changes we will adapt as appropriate.

If you have any questions please contact your local Spice group. Contact details can be accessed by selecting the relevant group using this link