Face coverings, Testing and Hospital visits

Dear all,

 

Face Coverings

 

We have had a few questions about face coverings and whether they have to be worn by the children at First Confession, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation.

 

The short answer is yes. Unless exempt, the children, like all the congregation, must wear face coverings when in a place of worship. The full details are here https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-phase-3-guidance-for-the-safe-use-of-places-of-worship/pages/general-principles/#facecoverings. This is not just guidance, it is a legal requirement set out in the Regulations and is binding on us.  

 

Please let all parents know that their children will need to wear face coverings when celebrating the sacraments.  

 

Testing

 

Free asymptotic testing is now available to everyone in Scotland. Testing is not mandatory (although some institutions require it of employees or visitors), and a clear test result does not exempt you from the general hygiene measures (masks, sanitising, etc.) but as we begin to meet more people, visit the sick again, etc., there may be some additional reassurance from regular testing. For more information and to order tests please visit https://www.gov.scot/news/regular-rapid-testing-for-everyone/.

 

If a test result is positive please immediately isolate and follow the rules on getting medically tested.  

 

Hospitals

 

Please find attached a letter from Jason Leitch about hospital visiting which you may find helpful. You will note that it encourages those visiting hospitals to use the free tests available, but equally makes it clear that a NHS hospital cannot insist on a test before letting people visit.  

 

With best wishes

 

Canon Paul Gargaro

Diocesan Coordinator

 

http://www.strobertbellarmine.org.uk/Websites//SpiritualCareExpansionofHospitalVisitingfrom26April2021guidanceandtheroleofvoluntaryvisitortesting.pdf