To reinforce the government guidance restricting movement and to keep the farm productive, the Board developed guidelines for stakeholders. A copy is attached and is also pinned on the farm gates.
The farm is operating well within these guidelines. Members are successfully staggering their visits and managing the distance requirements while they are there. Teams are connecting well through WhatsApp and email, and the monthly Team Leaders meeting is working on Zoom. As a result, we’re able to continue to care for and harvest our crops, to enjoy our natural environment, and to support each other.
Update 3rd September 2021
The advice is updated to align with current Government guidelines, with a focus on not coming to the farm if you are symptomatic, advised to isolate, or returning from certain types of travel. Masks must be worn in the Polytunnels and enclosed areas, such as sheds or Tea Hut, and no more than 2 people should be in those areas at any time. Copies of the advice have been attached to the farm gate and the door of the Big Green Shed, and below. Please make sure that you are familiar with this latest advice.
Update 19th January 2021
The advice is updated to be more rigorous, for example, requiring masks in confined areas such as the Polytunnels and sheds, gloves, and remembering not to congregate in communal areas. Additional signage has been posted around the farm to remind members of the requirements. The advice has also been reviewed by Winchester City Council COVID Support Officer to confirm that we are sharing and following best practices. Please make sure you are familiar with the latest advice, attached below.
Update 6th January 2021
The advice issued previously still applies. All members are expected to follow this advice.
UPDATE 3rd November 2020
With the new restrictions coming in this week, it is worth reminding ourselves that the guidelines issued by the Board in April and updated in July still apply. The July guidelines are attached to this newsletter.
Visiting the farm is regarded as essential work so travelling to the farm is regarded as an essential journey. We must continue to keep at least 2m away from other people – it is so easy to forget this when chatting. Members who are vulnerable or are over 60 should consider visiting the farm during the week or on Sundays in order to reduce the numbers on Saturday mornings. Visiting the market (sales area) on Saturdays should be staggered, again to reduce crowding.
If you have any questions, please do talk to or contact a member of the Board.
Update 30th September
Attendance at the farm is compliant with new COVID-19 government guidelines and legislation.That latest government guidelines and legislation does not affect your right to attend and work at the farm; and we encourage you to attend on your normal days. HCF remains an exempt place of work, so far as Covid restrictions are concerned. In addition, the new rules do not change any of the protocols that HCF needs to comply with, and we will continue to operate as per the HCF protocols that are published below.