We all know that we are living through uncertain times and, following the announcement of the Government's Plan B measures to combat the spread of the Omicron variant of Covid-19, we thought we should clarify how these measures affect Sutton United.
Firstly, our venue falls below the threshold limits set out in Plan B and so there is no need for anyone to have a Covid passport or supply proof of vaccination in order to attend any events in our stadium or bars. However, this does not mean that any of us can relax - far from it - and the club has taken a range of measures to help ensure the safety of everyone who uses our ground.
An enhanced regime of cleaning and anti-viral disinfection has been in place for many months and we make hand sanitiser freely available inside the stadium and bars/clubrooms. All members of staff, including volunteers, are instructed to wear face coverings inside the buildings. On match days we have a set of protocols in place for the teams, match officials, media etc that are designed to minimise the risk of spreading infection. This includes establishing and maintaining a Red Zone that is restricted to players and key personnel. Unfortunately this also means that players will not be using the public bars after matches.
We ask that all personnel (players, staff and spectators) obey the following directive:- Do not attend the stadium for any reason if:-
- You are currently symptomatic
- You have tested positive for Covid-19 in the last ten days
- You have been in close contact with someone who has Covid-19 within the last seven days.
It is not a requirement for anyone to wear face coverings inside the stadium or when eating or drinking in the the bars, but everyone should wear a face covering when moving around the club, although we trust everyone will be respectful and tolerant of others, whether they choose to wear a face covering or not. Please also wash your hands regularly or use sanitiser. Please always dispose of waste in the bins provided. If possible, we would ask everyone to consider taking a lateral flow test in the 24 hours prior to visiting the stadium and, of course, not to attend if that test is positive, but you will not be asked to do this and no evidence is required.
If you start to feel symptomatic after arriving at the stadium, please advise a member of staff or return straight home.
None of us likes to have restrictions or conditions imposed on our everyday lives but we are confident that we can all work together to help deliver a safe environment for everyone.
Dave Farebrother
Chairman, Board of Directors