Why We Are Not Open
As most of you already know we are currently closed due to the COVID-19 lock-down.
However, following the recent decision to relax the lock-down we have reluctantly decided, that at the moment, we are still going to keep our centres closed.
In order that you may understand why we felt that it was important we stay closed; we have outlined the reasons why we have come to this decision:
1. Staffing – Nearly all of our volunteers are in the vulnerable age group; some also have health issues and are shielding. So, we feel we cannot ask those who volunteer to place themselves at risk for what is, in essence, a non-paying activity/interest/hobby. We also do not have the numbers of volunteers available to staff the centres with at least 4 people at a time, which would be needed for Covid management
2. Logistics – Because of the limited volunteers available we also do not have people to undertake the additional tasks that opening would require. Repositioning exhibits, ongoing cleaning and the management of visitors are just a few extra things that would be required by us to operate safely.
3. Cost - In order for us to operate we would need to spend money on lots of signage, new systems, sanitisers, masks, etc, with no guarantee that visitors would actually come – and if they did come - that they would actually leave us a donation to cover our costs.
We have therefore decided that the best thing for us to do is to remain closed, probably for the rest of the year and wait for better times.
Kind regards
Brian Lane-Smith
Chairman
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