COVID-19 Information

COVID ADVICE for ACTIVE REFEREES

2nd April 2022 update: There is currently a steep rise in Covid infections across the UK. It is thought that close to 1 in 13 will have tested positive in the UK last week, as the latest Omicron 2B variant is 30% more contagious than Omicron A.

So be warned, still take extra care by using face masks and employ two-metre social distancing, as with the Omicron or Delta variants, having had two doses of the vaccine plus the booster does not stop passing Covid-19 on to others!

TFL has again imposed a condition of carriage on buses and tube trains that masks must be worn. Although there is no longer a legal requirement to wear a face covering, the Government suggests that you continue to wear one in crowded and enclosed spaces, especially where you come into contact with people you do not usually meet.

 

Eminent Covid Specialist, Dr Neil Bentley advised referees officiating during the pandemic, when he addressed a Zoom meeting hosted by our sister branch, West Middlesex Referees’ Association.

His key advice was: 1). Avoid fist-bumping as, in his opinion, it Is almost as bad as shaking hands. It’s really best to avoid close contact with others wherever possible, but if you must exchange greetings with somebody else an elbow bump, as often used by Boris while masked, is the best alternative greeting! 2). When washing your hands avoid cross-contamination while controlling the taps. 3). Watch out for being crowded by groups of players and take extra care when cautioning and sending off players.

Neil is currently seconded as deputy Director to lead the COVID-19 Pathogen Genomics Service, which interfaces between PHE and COG-UK to provide genetic sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 virus for the United Kingdom. This service identifies and monitors the different circulating viral variances in the country. This information in turn aids in the assessment to COBRA on how the country responds to the pandemic.

Work from home if you can!

This page presents information relevant to the COVID-19 Pandemic. You can spread the virus even if you don’t have symptoms. 

  • When not at home stay 2 metres (6ft) away from other people at all times.
  • Until 26th January 2022 Face Masks covering your mouth and nose and secured to the head with ties or ear loops must be worn by law in most indoor public places, including shops and on public transport, including taxis. After that it makes sense to voluntarily carry on wearing masks in those places, as the Omicron variant is still out there and spreads very easily.
  • From 27th January 2022: the Government suggests that you should continue to wear a face-covering in crowded and enclosed spaces where you may come into contact with other people you do not normally meet. Wash your hands as soon as you get home.
  • From 27th January 2022: Venues and events will no longer be required by law to check visitors’ NHS COVID Pass. The NHS COVID Pass can still be used on a voluntary basis.
stay-home

Usefull links

A letter from The RA former Chair, Paul Field

Learn More

Here you can see the safe distances.

Learn More

Important advice from the NHS to protect and stay safe.

Learn More

Coronavirus viability on different surfaces.

Learn More