Safer services

Scotland is no longer under temporary lockdown. On 13 April the Scottish Government updated the timetable for reducing restrictions. The levels framework outlines the rules that need to be followed in different areas and for different types of activity.

Some voluntary organisations will be able to resume face to face activity more quickly than others. For example, organised health walks for up to 15 people are now permitted.

There is still an expectation that staff and volunteers continue to work from home wherever possible. This guidance explains the legal position.

Resuming face to face activity

Services that have been delivered remotely, or closed, during lockdown will begin to open again over the coming months. This page allows you to check what level you are in, and provides a summary table and fuller description of the rules for different types of activity.

It is important to note that the new variant of Coronavirus can transmit more easily than before. Any activities that are resuming will need careful planning, and appropriate risk assessments. This tool from the Scottish Government allows you to assess the effectiveness of the measures you have in place.

It is crucial that staff, volunteers and users are following all of the measures you have put in place to reduce the risk of transmission.

Sector Guidance

As we return to the levels framework, specific sector guidance can help with detailed planning.

The voluntary sector is broad with activities ranging from group counselling to community cafes. Specific sector guidance exists for over 80 different areas. Those likely to be of most use for voluntary organisations are listed here:

• Community learning and development sector
• Community facilities
• Community food-growing spaces
• Creative studios and shared workspaces
• Domestic abuse
• Events sector guidance
• General safer workplaces guidance
• Health and wellbeing support guidance
• Homelessness services
• Museums, galleries and heritage attractions 
• One-to-one support, and support groups
• Retail sector guidance​​​​
• Safer public spaces – urban centres and green spaces
• Social landlords
• Unregulated activities for children

The resources below link to information produced by voluntary sector support organisations.

Resources