OPFA AGM 2024
This is to invite you/your organisation to attend the OPFA Annual General Meeting on Monday 21 October 2024 at 7.30 p.m. in Cassington Village Hall, The Green, Cassington, OX29 4DN
To see the location of the venue go to: https://www.communityfirstoxon.org/cassington-village-hall/
Agenda is as follows:
1. Apologies
2. Minutes of previous AGM and Matters Arising
3. Annual Report 2023/24—copy on News page of the OPFA website
4. Annual Accounts 2023/24—copy included in the Annual Report
5. Election of Honorary Officers for 2024/25
6. Election of Executive Committee/Trustees for 2024/25
7. Appointment of Independent Examiner for 2024/25
8. Any Other Business/Members’ Reports and General Discussion
An invitation including the Agenda and a reply form can be viewed on the News page of our website (www.opfa.org.uk) and can be downloaded here
The minutes of the 2023 AGM can be downloaded here.
The Annual Report and Accounts for 2023/24 (also on the News page) can be downloaded here
We hope that the meeting will provide a useful opportunity for Members to come along and remind themselves of the help available from the Association through our Community Development Officer, Andrew Parsons.
If you have a question to ask or an issue to raise for discussion with other Members, this should be a good opportunity.
Please put this date in your diary and it would be good to see you or other representatives of your organisation on 21 October. It would be helpful if you could let us know if you are coming – see the AGM invite.
Many thanks,
Meryl Smith
Hon. Manager/Trustee, OPFA
A RETURN TO PLAY (Update 31 March 2021)
With Spring officially here and brighter days ahead, I’m sure you are all as pleased as we are to see the return of certain activities within our parks and green spaces, allowing people of all ages to once again enjoy the wonderful green spaces that we have all grown to love.
Many will have been desperate to get back onto our sports pitches with grass roots football, cricket and tennis all allowed to begin operating again from 29 March. Outdoor Gyms, which were closed in January, can also be reopened.
So, with that in mind, I've set out below some very useful links to some sport specific guidance:
Grassroots football (The FA)
https://www.thefa.com/news/2020/jun/12/grassroots-covid-19-update-120620
Cricket (The ECB)
http://ecb-comms.co.uk/t/1FT6-6XQGG-807DM4VQ7F/cr.aspx
Tennis (The LTA)
https://www.lta.org.uk/globalassets/news/2021/summary-grid---permitted-tennis-activity.pdf
Playgrounds and Outdoor Gyms
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
I hope you will find these links useful and wish you everyone a safe and happy return to play,
NATIONAL COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS WITH EFFECT FROM 6th JANUARY 2021 (Update 7 January 2021).
On 4 January the Prime Minister announced a national lockdown for all of England which now requires everyone to stay at home and only leave for essential shopping, to work (if you cannot reasonably do so from home), seek medical assistance and for exercise (once a day in the immediate locality).
Parks and green spaces can remain open and people are actively encouraged to use these to exercise where possible. Outdoor children's playgrounds can remain open, but outdoor gyms, along with sports facilities such as those for tennis and golf must now close. All organised non-elite sport, such as adult and junior rugby, hockey and football, is now suspended.
Usage of parks and green spaces is therefore likely to rise, particularly as the weather improves, so owners or operators of green spaces, and particularly those with children's playgrounds, should consider how to put in place measures to support social distancing such as signs to remind users of the need for and adherence to social distancing in accordance with existing government guidance. i.e. when around other people, stay two metres apart from anyone not in your household - meaning the people you live with - or your support bubble.
As a guide signage should:
Useful resources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
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NATIONAL COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS WITH EFFECT FROM 26th DECEMBER 2020 (Update 29th Dec 2020).
With Oxfordshire and most of the South East of England now in Tier 4 (Stay at Home), the Government has updated its guidance relating to access to open spaces for sport and physical activity.
From 24th December, while indoor gyms and sports facilities must close, outdoor sports courts (tennis etc.), outdoor gyms, golf courses, outdoor swimming pools, archery/driving/shooting ranges, riding centres and playgrounds can remain open for individual exercise. People may use these facilities with others within their household, support bubble, or with one person from another household.
Organised outdoor sport for under 18s (such as youth football) and disabled people will be allowed.
Useful resources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-4-stay-at-home#sports-and-physical-activity
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/local-restriction-tiers-what-you-need-to-know
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NATIONAL COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS WITH EFFECT FROM 2nd DECEMBER 2020 (Update 3rd Dec 2020).
From 2nd December 2020 the national COVID-19 restrictions are no longer in force and England has returned to a framework of local tiers. The whole of Oxfordshire and the surrounding counties are all in Tier 2.
A significant change for managers of open spaces is that grass roots sports can return, bringing players back to both our sports pitches and tennis courts. Each governing body has issued guidance and the links to the LTA and FA advice are given below. With regard to outdoor tennis courts, these can now reopen and host both singles and doubles play as long as the normal Rule of 6 guidance is observed.
Children's playgrounds can continue to be open and be used in line with the Rule of 6 guidance although Outdoor gym equipment must remain closed with appropriate measures taken to deter use. Guidance on the safe reopening of outdoor gyms will be provided ahead of them being able to do so in the future.
Useful resources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/providers-of-grassroots-sport-and-gym-leisure-facilities
https://www.lta.org.uk/about-us/tennis-news/news-and-opinion/general-news/2020/march/coronavirus-covid-19---latest-advice/
https://www.thefa.com/news/2020/oct/16/football-guidance-update-161020
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NATIONAL COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS WITH EFFECT FROM 5th NOVEMBER 2020 (Update 5th Nov 2020).
As I’m sure everyone will now be aware, from Thursday 5 November until Wednesday 2nd December national COVID-19 restrictions will apply to England that will:
Managers of outdoor public spaces need to be aware that people can still spend time in an outdoor public place for exercise or recreation either alone or with:
There is no limit to the amount of time that can be spent outside for exercise and the definition of Outdoor public places includes:
Please note therefore that while outdoor playgrounds can remain open, outdoor gyms and tennis courts must be closed and we would suggest appropriate signage is placed on all access points to that effect.
Some useful resources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-national-restrictions-from-5-november?priority-taxon=774cee22-d896-44c1-a611-e3109cce8eae
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CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19): GUIDANCE ON THE PHASED RETURN OF SPORT AND RECREATION (Update 18/9/20)
The Impact on the use of Parks and Green Spaces
On the 9th September the UK Government announced some new measures to suppress the Covid-19 virus to keep the number of infections down, simplify the existing rules and therefore aid enforcement.
It subsequently revised the guidance on the use of facilities for sport and recreation, (first issued in May) and, as these new rules will impact on people’s ability to exercise outdoors, the OPFA has produced the following interpretation in an effort to provide some clarity and answer some frequently raised questions,
The New Rules
The new rules mean that from Monday 14 September, you can no longer meet with people from other households socially in groups of more than 6 either indoors or outdoors, including in private homes. The new message promoted three new behaviours as follows: -
What facilities can open?
Outdoor sports courts, outdoor gyms, outdoor swimming pools and playgrounds and other outdoor sporting activities can all be used if those responsible for them can open them safely, following COVID-19 Secure guidelines.
Travelling to an open space
You can travel to an outdoor open space irrespective of distance, but should not travel with someone from outside your household unless you can practise social distancing - for example by cycling. It is not possible to practice effective social distancing in small vehicles.
If you have children with you
Children can still use playgrounds and exercise with you and it’s important that children have as many chances to be as active as possible.
Using sport facilities
Sports courts, including basketball and tennis courts, bowling greens and playing spaces like golf courses (public and private) are still permitted to open.
All of these activities must only be undertaken alone, with up to but no more than 5 other people following social distancing guidelines.
Changing rooms
As changing rooms remain an area of increased risk of transmission, managers of facilities used by local football and cricket teams should encourage attendees to arrive at the facility in sports kit and where possible to travel home to change/shower.
For more information see the Providers of grassroots sport and gym/leisure facilities guidance.
Sharing equipment
It is a decision for facility managers whether or not they hire out equipment (like tennis racquets and golf clubs).
Where possible players should be encouraged to use their own equipment.
Bars and cafés in Pavilions
Bars and cafes, including any food or drink facilities inside a clubhouse can open. Toilets may be kept open, but guidance on hygiene should be followed.
Spectators
Where it is anticipated that an activity will attract spectators, there should be a named person from the respective club with responsibility for ensuring adherence with these guidelines and ensuring the facility is COVID-19 Secure. The person should carry out and publish a risk assessment for the activity which limits the number of spectators and focuses on the need to maintain social distancing on arrival, for the duration of the activity, and on departure.
Arrangements should also be put in place to support test and trace efforts by collecting information from spectators which is detailed enough to allow NHS Test and Trace to contact them if necessary. See the NHS Test and Trace: how it works for further information.
Individual sports
Athletics
Athletics tracks can be used, but this is at the discretion of the facility and must be done in a way that adheres to guidance on social distancing.
Fishing
You can go fishing alone or with no more than 5 other people. You should always follow social distancing guidelines when encountering others.
Like most other shops, tackle shops can open.
Golf
You can play golf providing you only meet up with no more than 5 other people and observe social distancing guidelines. Clubhouse bars and restaurants can open, in accordance with the latest guidance.
Lawn bowls and croquet
You can play lawn bowls and croquet where facilities have reopened, but you can only take part in these activities by yourself or with no more than 5 other people, as long as you are able to maintain social distancing.
Swimming
Outdoor and indoor swimming pools can now open.
Team sports
Tennis
You can play tennis providing you meet up with no more than 5 other people and observe social distancing guidelines. You can also play doubles tennis with people from outside of your household as long as you follow social distancing guidelines.
Water sports
All forms of water sports practised on open waterways, including sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing, kayaking, surfing, paddle-boarding and the use of privately owned motorised craft (in line with the guidance issued by the relevant navigation authority) are allowed provided that the guidance on social distancing is observed.
You are allowed to visit venues like a sailing club to exercise. You should only do so alone or with 5 other people as long as you follow social distancing guidelines. You should check ahead to ensure that these facilities are open and prepared to receive visitors.
THE RE-OPENING OF CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUNDS FROM 4th JULY (2nd July)
(Information for managers of local outdoor green spaces including recreations grounds)
On Friday 26th June the Government published its guidance on how owners and managers of children's playgrounds (and outdoor gyms) can prepare them to reopen from 4th July. The guidance is included in a document "COVID-19: Guidance for managing playgrounds and outdoor gyms and the link is included below.
OPFA recognises the scale of the task facing owners and managers and is keen to ensure they are aware of the guidance and has therefore set out the key issues that must be addressed prior to the reopening of a children's playground.
The first consideration is that all playgrounds have been unused for over three months and it is therefore essential that the playground is properly inspected and any cyclic maintenance, that may have been suspended during the 'lock-down, is brought up to date.
Covid-19 Risk Assessment
We should remember that playgrounds, along with other provision that can reopen on 4th July, are only able to reopen due to the relaxation of social distancing guidance which now advises '2 metres or 1 metre with risk mitigation, should 2 metres not be viable. So, central to the preparation for reopening a playground is the need to prepare a Covid-19 Risk Assessment that will assess and manage the risk of potential COVID-19 transmission for users of the equipment, such as children, parents, guardians and carers, as well as any staff or volunteers involved in the maintenance or cleaning of equipment.
Clearly playgrounds come in many forms with some having only a few pieces of equipment and others being very large. Some will be fenced, while others will not, so each will require a different approach.
Common areas to address when producing a risk assessment are therefore:
Size of the play area - how many children can safely use the space at one time.
Accessibility - are there pinch points at gates and how might these be managed? - (one way systems perhaps).
Signage - to reinforce the social distancing guidance.
Cleaning - Are there resources to clean frequently touched areas? Parents should be encouraged to bring cleaning wipes.
Food and drink - Should be prohibited.
Hand sanitiser - There is no requirement to provide automated dispensers, although government guidance does state that 'where practicable, they should be installed. Essential is that users are encouraged to bring their own.
With a risk assessment in place the use of signs and posters around the playground is essential both to reassure users and promote responsible behaviour.
Signage should therefore:
COVID-19: Guidance for managing playgrounds and outdoor gyms
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
THE GOVERNMENT'S COVID-19 RECOVERY STRATEGY ‘OUR PLAN TO REBUILD
(Information for managers of local outdoor green spaces including recreations grounds)
On Monday 11th May the Government set out its Covid-19 recovery strategy ‘OUR PLAN TO REBUILD’ and this document included some revised guidance on access to Public Spaces.
OPFA is keen to ensure owners and managers of parks and green spaces are aware of these changes and can put in place appropriate measures to follow this new COVID-19 Secure guidance.
1. Specifically, people may now exercise outside as many times each day as they wish and can participate in sports such as angling and tennis, but only with up to one person from outside their own household, so there can be no team sports unless played only with members of the same household.
2. People may drive to outdoor open spaces irrespective of distance, so long as they respect social distancing guidance while they are there, because this does not involve contact with people outside your household.
These revisions are subject to:
a. not meeting up with any more than one person from outside the same household;
b. continued compliance with social distancing guidelines to remain two metres (6ft) away from people outside the same household;
c. good hand hygiene, particularly with respect to shared surfaces; and:
d. those responsible for public places being able to put appropriate measures in place to follow the new COVID-19 Secure guidance.
Playgrounds, outdoor gyms or ticketed outdoor leisure venues, where there is a higher risk of close contact and touching surfaces, should remain closed.
The Government recognises that these measures come with some risk; and that it is important that everyone continues to act responsibly. It states that if there are signs that the infection rate increases, if people begin to break these rules and, for example, mix in groups in parks, this may trigger the need for further restrictions.
Some useful resources:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Safer Public Places - Urban Centres and Green Spaces
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/884698/A4_Portrait_Content_Document_REV_H_low_res.pdf
Coronavirus – Guidance on access to green spaces (DEFRA)
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/coronavirus-guidance-on-access-to-green-spaces#history
The LTA - Coronavirus (Covid 19) - latest update
https://www.lta.org.uk/about-us/tennis-news/news-and-opinion/general-news/2020/march/coronavirus-covid-19---latest-advice/
KEEPING OUR PARKS AND GREEN SPACES OPEN
(Information for managers of local outdoor green spaces including recreations grounds)
With almost every business closed and tight restrictions on where we can go and what we can do, due to the coronavirus crisis, our parks and green spaces have become a lifeline for keeping people physically and mentally healthy - particularly those who aren’t lucky enough to live somewhere with a garden.
On 18th April Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick said that parks and cemeteries should remain open, as long as the rules concerning social distancing are followed and use is limited to exercise. So, with this in mind the Oxfordshire Playing Fields Association has put together some simple guidance to assist managers of green spaces in managing their spaces throughout the present crisis by producing a poster that summarises the present guidance. The poster can be downloaded using the link below and you may personalise this by adding the name of your own organisation.
Keeping our Parks and Green Spaces open (POSTER)
DEALING WITH THE CORONAVIRUS (COVID 19) CRISIS
(Information for managers of local outdoor green spaces including recreations grounds)
Having already ordered certain businesses to close, such as pubs, cinemas and theatres, this week the Government extended this requirement to a further set of businesses and other venues including "communal places" within parks such as playgrounds, sports pitches and courts and outdoor gyms.
Individuals have been asked to stay at home except for the following activities, so long as they stay at least 2 metres (6 ft) away from other people:
Communal spaces within parks and other outdoor open green spaces, such as playgrounds, tennis courts, sports pitches, MUGAs, skateboard areas, public toilets and other such facilities, should now be closed and should not be used.
If you are responsible for managing an outdoor open green space, recreation ground, play area or other similar facility, the OPFA suggests that you should act on these Government orders as follows:
Where you can, lock any gates to communal places, as identified above. Whether or not these kinds of facility can be closed in this way, you should post a notice to insist that the facility must not be used.
You need not prevent entry into an outdoor open green space, which in itself does not count as a communal place as identified above, so long as you have closed any eligible communal spaces (or put up notices preventing use) within it.
You should put a notice at the entrance urging users to do the following:
It would probably be helpful to publicise within your community what you have done and why you have done it and to remind people of what are the Government recommendations for individuals in terms of exercise and social distancing.
This information has been provided in the light of Government advice available at the time of writing (24 March 2020)
A NEW COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER FOR OPFA
OPFA is pleased to announce that our new Community Development Officer (CDO) is Andrew Parsons, who will be working with us from 11 November 2019 to deliver OPFA’s information and advice service.
For the past 16 years Andrew has been an independent consultant focusing particularly on green space good practice issues.
He has previously worked as Head of Parks and Green Spaces at Oxford City Council.
Andrew was jointly responsible for re-writing the Green Flag Award scheme’s guidance manual “Raising the Standard” and led the partnership review of the Green Flag Award scheme on behalf of CABE Space. The Green Flag Award scheme recognises and rewards well managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.
Andrew was also instrumental in the development of SPACESHAPER, a toolkit that allows communities to measure the quality of a public space before investing time and money in improving it and have led many workshops since.
He has managed grants projects on behalf of the Big Lottery fund through their Living Spaces and Community Spaces programmes, which provided support towards the improvement of community assets for voluntary groups. Working with community groups he led over twenty major projects valued at £1,200,000, which included the provision of sports areas, children’s play areas and major building refurbishment.
He also led the procurement process for grounds maintenance services for Hounslow Borough Council and has delivered many options appraisals for the future delivery of grounds maintenance services including commissions from Guildford, Crawley and Swindon.
We are delighted to welcome Andrew to our organisation and he is looking forward to helping local community organisations providing and managing outdoor recreational spaces.
The CDO contact details remain the same: email [email protected]; phone 01295 817662.
Trustees Annual Report
The trustees annual report for the year 2018-2019 can now be downloaded via the link below.
Trustees Annual Report 2018-2019
OPFA Newsletter
Our newsletter is sent out quarterly to all of our members. Browse current and past editions via the links below.
Current editions
Spring 2020
Past editions
Autumn 2019 Oxfordshire
Autumn 2019 South Northants
Summer 2019 Oxfordshire
Summer 2019 South Northants
Spring 2019 South Northants
Spring 2019 Oxfordshire
Winter 2019 Oxfordshire
Autumn 2018 Oxfordshire
Summer 2018 Oxfordshire
Summer 2018 South Northants
Spring 2018 newsletter
Winter 2018 newsletter
Winter 2018 newsletter South Northants
Autumn 2017 newsletter
Come and join our friendly OPFA Executive Committee:
It can be amusing amid the business!
OPFA is looking for some more community-minded people who would be interested in helping to take our organisation forward into a changing but rewarding future. Could it be you or someone you know?
The Committee, whose volunteer members are the managing trustees of the charity, currently meets on a weekday up to 4 times a year. The Committee’s role is to make sure that the OPFA is managed effectively and is as financially secure as is possible in these challenging times, so that we can continue to provide our information and advice services to community groups around the county.
Between them the Committee’s existing members already bring a range of useful and relevant interests, skills and experience, so we don’t need to recruit anyone who is an expert on every aspect of organisation management, playing space provision or operating as a community-focussed organisation alongside other partners in Oxfordshire. An interest in what OPFA does and in sharing thoughts and ideas, and just some relevant experience, is all we ask. There is plenty of mutual support and sources of expert information and advice both nationally and locally that the Committee can call on. What we need is some enthusiasm and a willingness to give , free of charge, just a bit of time back to OPFA.
If you would like to see if this is an opportunity that would suit you, please call the OPFA office on 01295 817662 or email Meryl Smith, the Hon. Manager, on [email protected]. If you think you know someone else who might be interested, please give them these contact details.
Project Management and other new OPFA services
We are working hard to diversify the services that we offer in response to the need that we have recognised in our county. We understand that changing times and pressure from housing developments mean that parish councils and recreation space managers are now facing a new set of challenges. These include ensuring that facilities are adequate for an expanding population and therefore making the most of developer contributions. OPFA can help you to navigate this minefield and put a robust case in place for the facilities that you need. We can also act as the project manager on playground installations and other facility improvement projects.
For full details of the new services we offer, please download our consultancy leaflet
This is to invite you/your organisation to attend the OPFA Annual General Meeting on Monday 21 October 2024 at 7.30 p.m. in Cassington Village Hall, The Green, Cassington, OX29 4DN
To see the location of the venue go to: https://www.communityfirstoxon.org/cassington-village-hall/
Agenda is as follows:
1. Apologies
2. Minutes of previous AGM and Matters Arising
3. Annual Report 2023/24—copy on News page of the OPFA website
4. Annual Accounts 2023/24—copy included in the Annual Report
5. Election of Honorary Officers for 2024/25
6. Election of Executive Committee/Trustees for 2024/25
7. Appointment of Independent Examiner for 2024/25
8. Any Other Business/Members’ Reports and General Discussion
An invitation including the Agenda and a reply form can be viewed on the News page of our website (www.opfa.org.uk) and can be downloaded here
The minutes of the 2023 AGM can be downloaded here.
The Annual Report and Accounts for 2023/24 (also on the News page) can be downloaded here
We hope that the meeting will provide a useful opportunity for Members to come along and remind themselves of the help available from the Association through our Community Development Officer, Andrew Parsons.
If you have a question to ask or an issue to raise for discussion with other Members, this should be a good opportunity.
Please put this date in your diary and it would be good to see you or other representatives of your organisation on 21 October. It would be helpful if you could let us know if you are coming – see the AGM invite.
Many thanks,
Meryl Smith
Hon. Manager/Trustee, OPFA
A RETURN TO PLAY (Update 31 March 2021)
With Spring officially here and brighter days ahead, I’m sure you are all as pleased as we are to see the return of certain activities within our parks and green spaces, allowing people of all ages to once again enjoy the wonderful green spaces that we have all grown to love.
Many will have been desperate to get back onto our sports pitches with grass roots football, cricket and tennis all allowed to begin operating again from 29 March. Outdoor Gyms, which were closed in January, can also be reopened.
So, with that in mind, I've set out below some very useful links to some sport specific guidance:
Grassroots football (The FA)
https://www.thefa.com/news/2020/jun/12/grassroots-covid-19-update-120620
Cricket (The ECB)
http://ecb-comms.co.uk/t/1FT6-6XQGG-807DM4VQ7F/cr.aspx
Tennis (The LTA)
https://www.lta.org.uk/globalassets/news/2021/summary-grid---permitted-tennis-activity.pdf
Playgrounds and Outdoor Gyms
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
I hope you will find these links useful and wish you everyone a safe and happy return to play,
NATIONAL COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS WITH EFFECT FROM 6th JANUARY 2021 (Update 7 January 2021).
On 4 January the Prime Minister announced a national lockdown for all of England which now requires everyone to stay at home and only leave for essential shopping, to work (if you cannot reasonably do so from home), seek medical assistance and for exercise (once a day in the immediate locality).
Parks and green spaces can remain open and people are actively encouraged to use these to exercise where possible. Outdoor children's playgrounds can remain open, but outdoor gyms, along with sports facilities such as those for tennis and golf must now close. All organised non-elite sport, such as adult and junior rugby, hockey and football, is now suspended.
Usage of parks and green spaces is therefore likely to rise, particularly as the weather improves, so owners or operators of green spaces, and particularly those with children's playgrounds, should consider how to put in place measures to support social distancing such as signs to remind users of the need for and adherence to social distancing in accordance with existing government guidance. i.e. when around other people, stay two metres apart from anyone not in your household - meaning the people you live with - or your support bubble.
As a guide signage should:
- promote and remind users, parents, guardians and carers of the need for social distancing.
- promote cleaning of equipment by users, parents, guardians and carers, particularly where there are clear touch points such as swing rockers, see saws, machine handles or exercise bars.
- encouraging parents to bring hand sanitiser gel or wipes to clean their children’s hands.
- remind children not to put their mouths on equipment or their hands in their mouths.
Useful resources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
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NATIONAL COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS WITH EFFECT FROM 26th DECEMBER 2020 (Update 29th Dec 2020).
With Oxfordshire and most of the South East of England now in Tier 4 (Stay at Home), the Government has updated its guidance relating to access to open spaces for sport and physical activity.
From 24th December, while indoor gyms and sports facilities must close, outdoor sports courts (tennis etc.), outdoor gyms, golf courses, outdoor swimming pools, archery/driving/shooting ranges, riding centres and playgrounds can remain open for individual exercise. People may use these facilities with others within their household, support bubble, or with one person from another household.
Organised outdoor sport for under 18s (such as youth football) and disabled people will be allowed.
Useful resources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-4-stay-at-home#sports-and-physical-activity
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/local-restriction-tiers-what-you-need-to-know
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NATIONAL COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS WITH EFFECT FROM 2nd DECEMBER 2020 (Update 3rd Dec 2020).
From 2nd December 2020 the national COVID-19 restrictions are no longer in force and England has returned to a framework of local tiers. The whole of Oxfordshire and the surrounding counties are all in Tier 2.
A significant change for managers of open spaces is that grass roots sports can return, bringing players back to both our sports pitches and tennis courts. Each governing body has issued guidance and the links to the LTA and FA advice are given below. With regard to outdoor tennis courts, these can now reopen and host both singles and doubles play as long as the normal Rule of 6 guidance is observed.
Children's playgrounds can continue to be open and be used in line with the Rule of 6 guidance although Outdoor gym equipment must remain closed with appropriate measures taken to deter use. Guidance on the safe reopening of outdoor gyms will be provided ahead of them being able to do so in the future.
Useful resources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/providers-of-grassroots-sport-and-gym-leisure-facilities
https://www.lta.org.uk/about-us/tennis-news/news-and-opinion/general-news/2020/march/coronavirus-covid-19---latest-advice/
https://www.thefa.com/news/2020/oct/16/football-guidance-update-161020
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NATIONAL COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS WITH EFFECT FROM 5th NOVEMBER 2020 (Update 5th Nov 2020).
As I’m sure everyone will now be aware, from Thursday 5 November until Wednesday 2nd December national COVID-19 restrictions will apply to England that will:
- Require people to stay at home, except for specific purposes.
- Prevent people gathering with people they do not live with, except for specific purposes.
- Close certain businesses and venues.
Managers of outdoor public spaces need to be aware that people can still spend time in an outdoor public place for exercise or recreation either alone or with:
- members of their own household and/or support bubble
- one other person, plus any children under five
- children you are informally caring for as part of a childcare bubble
There is no limit to the amount of time that can be spent outside for exercise and the definition of Outdoor public places includes:
- neighbourhood streets, parks, beaches, and the countryside
- public gardens and grounds (whether or not you pay to enter them)
- allotments
- outdoor playgrounds
Please note therefore that while outdoor playgrounds can remain open, outdoor gyms and tennis courts must be closed and we would suggest appropriate signage is placed on all access points to that effect.
Some useful resources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-national-restrictions-from-5-november?priority-taxon=774cee22-d896-44c1-a611-e3109cce8eae
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CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19): GUIDANCE ON THE PHASED RETURN OF SPORT AND RECREATION (Update 18/9/20)
The Impact on the use of Parks and Green Spaces
On the 9th September the UK Government announced some new measures to suppress the Covid-19 virus to keep the number of infections down, simplify the existing rules and therefore aid enforcement.
It subsequently revised the guidance on the use of facilities for sport and recreation, (first issued in May) and, as these new rules will impact on people’s ability to exercise outdoors, the OPFA has produced the following interpretation in an effort to provide some clarity and answer some frequently raised questions,
The New Rules
The new rules mean that from Monday 14 September, you can no longer meet with people from other households socially in groups of more than 6 either indoors or outdoors, including in private homes. The new message promoted three new behaviours as follows: -
- HANDS – Wash your hands regularly and for 20 seconds.
- FACE – Wear a face covering in indoor settings where social distancing may be difficult and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet.
- SPACE – Stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with where possible, or 1 metre with extra precautions in place.
What facilities can open?
Outdoor sports courts, outdoor gyms, outdoor swimming pools and playgrounds and other outdoor sporting activities can all be used if those responsible for them can open them safely, following COVID-19 Secure guidelines.
Travelling to an open space
You can travel to an outdoor open space irrespective of distance, but should not travel with someone from outside your household unless you can practise social distancing - for example by cycling. It is not possible to practice effective social distancing in small vehicles.
If you have children with you
Children can still use playgrounds and exercise with you and it’s important that children have as many chances to be as active as possible.
Using sport facilities
Sports courts, including basketball and tennis courts, bowling greens and playing spaces like golf courses (public and private) are still permitted to open.
All of these activities must only be undertaken alone, with up to but no more than 5 other people following social distancing guidelines.
Changing rooms
As changing rooms remain an area of increased risk of transmission, managers of facilities used by local football and cricket teams should encourage attendees to arrive at the facility in sports kit and where possible to travel home to change/shower.
For more information see the Providers of grassroots sport and gym/leisure facilities guidance.
Sharing equipment
It is a decision for facility managers whether or not they hire out equipment (like tennis racquets and golf clubs).
Where possible players should be encouraged to use their own equipment.
Bars and cafés in Pavilions
Bars and cafes, including any food or drink facilities inside a clubhouse can open. Toilets may be kept open, but guidance on hygiene should be followed.
Spectators
Where it is anticipated that an activity will attract spectators, there should be a named person from the respective club with responsibility for ensuring adherence with these guidelines and ensuring the facility is COVID-19 Secure. The person should carry out and publish a risk assessment for the activity which limits the number of spectators and focuses on the need to maintain social distancing on arrival, for the duration of the activity, and on departure.
Arrangements should also be put in place to support test and trace efforts by collecting information from spectators which is detailed enough to allow NHS Test and Trace to contact them if necessary. See the NHS Test and Trace: how it works for further information.
Individual sports
Athletics
Athletics tracks can be used, but this is at the discretion of the facility and must be done in a way that adheres to guidance on social distancing.
Fishing
You can go fishing alone or with no more than 5 other people. You should always follow social distancing guidelines when encountering others.
Like most other shops, tackle shops can open.
Golf
You can play golf providing you only meet up with no more than 5 other people and observe social distancing guidelines. Clubhouse bars and restaurants can open, in accordance with the latest guidance.
Lawn bowls and croquet
You can play lawn bowls and croquet where facilities have reopened, but you can only take part in these activities by yourself or with no more than 5 other people, as long as you are able to maintain social distancing.
Swimming
Outdoor and indoor swimming pools can now open.
Team sports
Tennis
You can play tennis providing you meet up with no more than 5 other people and observe social distancing guidelines. You can also play doubles tennis with people from outside of your household as long as you follow social distancing guidelines.
Water sports
All forms of water sports practised on open waterways, including sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing, kayaking, surfing, paddle-boarding and the use of privately owned motorised craft (in line with the guidance issued by the relevant navigation authority) are allowed provided that the guidance on social distancing is observed.
You are allowed to visit venues like a sailing club to exercise. You should only do so alone or with 5 other people as long as you follow social distancing guidelines. You should check ahead to ensure that these facilities are open and prepared to receive visitors.
THE RE-OPENING OF CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUNDS FROM 4th JULY (2nd July)
(Information for managers of local outdoor green spaces including recreations grounds)
On Friday 26th June the Government published its guidance on how owners and managers of children's playgrounds (and outdoor gyms) can prepare them to reopen from 4th July. The guidance is included in a document "COVID-19: Guidance for managing playgrounds and outdoor gyms and the link is included below.
OPFA recognises the scale of the task facing owners and managers and is keen to ensure they are aware of the guidance and has therefore set out the key issues that must be addressed prior to the reopening of a children's playground.
The first consideration is that all playgrounds have been unused for over three months and it is therefore essential that the playground is properly inspected and any cyclic maintenance, that may have been suspended during the 'lock-down, is brought up to date.
Covid-19 Risk Assessment
We should remember that playgrounds, along with other provision that can reopen on 4th July, are only able to reopen due to the relaxation of social distancing guidance which now advises '2 metres or 1 metre with risk mitigation, should 2 metres not be viable. So, central to the preparation for reopening a playground is the need to prepare a Covid-19 Risk Assessment that will assess and manage the risk of potential COVID-19 transmission for users of the equipment, such as children, parents, guardians and carers, as well as any staff or volunteers involved in the maintenance or cleaning of equipment.
Clearly playgrounds come in many forms with some having only a few pieces of equipment and others being very large. Some will be fenced, while others will not, so each will require a different approach.
Common areas to address when producing a risk assessment are therefore:
Size of the play area - how many children can safely use the space at one time.
Accessibility - are there pinch points at gates and how might these be managed? - (one way systems perhaps).
Signage - to reinforce the social distancing guidance.
Cleaning - Are there resources to clean frequently touched areas? Parents should be encouraged to bring cleaning wipes.
Food and drink - Should be prohibited.
Hand sanitiser - There is no requirement to provide automated dispensers, although government guidance does state that 'where practicable, they should be installed. Essential is that users are encouraged to bring their own.
With a risk assessment in place the use of signs and posters around the playground is essential both to reassure users and promote responsible behaviour.
Signage should therefore:
- promote and remind users, parents, guardians and carers of the need for social distancing.
- promote cleaning of equipment by users, parents, guardians and carers, particularly where there are clear touch points such as swing rockers, see saws, machine handles or exercise bars.
- encouraging parents to bring hand sanitiser gel or wipes to clean their children’s hands.
- remind children not to put their mouths on equipment or their hands in their mouths.
- Other points for consideration
- When communicating safety messages owners/operators should ensure they are able to reach those with hearing or vision impairments.
- Consideration should also be given on how to assist those with disabilities with complying with the changes.
- Consider providing more waste facilities and more frequent rubbish collection.
- Where practicable, provide hand sanitiser (automated where possible) or hand washing facilities at the entry and exit points.
COVID-19: Guidance for managing playgrounds and outdoor gyms
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms/covid-19-guidance-for-managing-playgrounds-and-outdoor-gyms
THE GOVERNMENT'S COVID-19 RECOVERY STRATEGY ‘OUR PLAN TO REBUILD
(Information for managers of local outdoor green spaces including recreations grounds)
On Monday 11th May the Government set out its Covid-19 recovery strategy ‘OUR PLAN TO REBUILD’ and this document included some revised guidance on access to Public Spaces.
OPFA is keen to ensure owners and managers of parks and green spaces are aware of these changes and can put in place appropriate measures to follow this new COVID-19 Secure guidance.
1. Specifically, people may now exercise outside as many times each day as they wish and can participate in sports such as angling and tennis, but only with up to one person from outside their own household, so there can be no team sports unless played only with members of the same household.
2. People may drive to outdoor open spaces irrespective of distance, so long as they respect social distancing guidance while they are there, because this does not involve contact with people outside your household.
These revisions are subject to:
a. not meeting up with any more than one person from outside the same household;
b. continued compliance with social distancing guidelines to remain two metres (6ft) away from people outside the same household;
c. good hand hygiene, particularly with respect to shared surfaces; and:
d. those responsible for public places being able to put appropriate measures in place to follow the new COVID-19 Secure guidance.
Playgrounds, outdoor gyms or ticketed outdoor leisure venues, where there is a higher risk of close contact and touching surfaces, should remain closed.
The Government recognises that these measures come with some risk; and that it is important that everyone continues to act responsibly. It states that if there are signs that the infection rate increases, if people begin to break these rules and, for example, mix in groups in parks, this may trigger the need for further restrictions.
Some useful resources:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Safer Public Places - Urban Centres and Green Spaces
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/884698/A4_Portrait_Content_Document_REV_H_low_res.pdf
Coronavirus – Guidance on access to green spaces (DEFRA)
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/coronavirus-guidance-on-access-to-green-spaces#history
The LTA - Coronavirus (Covid 19) - latest update
https://www.lta.org.uk/about-us/tennis-news/news-and-opinion/general-news/2020/march/coronavirus-covid-19---latest-advice/
KEEPING OUR PARKS AND GREEN SPACES OPEN
(Information for managers of local outdoor green spaces including recreations grounds)
With almost every business closed and tight restrictions on where we can go and what we can do, due to the coronavirus crisis, our parks and green spaces have become a lifeline for keeping people physically and mentally healthy - particularly those who aren’t lucky enough to live somewhere with a garden.
On 18th April Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick said that parks and cemeteries should remain open, as long as the rules concerning social distancing are followed and use is limited to exercise. So, with this in mind the Oxfordshire Playing Fields Association has put together some simple guidance to assist managers of green spaces in managing their spaces throughout the present crisis by producing a poster that summarises the present guidance. The poster can be downloaded using the link below and you may personalise this by adding the name of your own organisation.
Keeping our Parks and Green Spaces open (POSTER)
DEALING WITH THE CORONAVIRUS (COVID 19) CRISIS
(Information for managers of local outdoor green spaces including recreations grounds)
Having already ordered certain businesses to close, such as pubs, cinemas and theatres, this week the Government extended this requirement to a further set of businesses and other venues including "communal places" within parks such as playgrounds, sports pitches and courts and outdoor gyms.
Individuals have been asked to stay at home except for the following activities, so long as they stay at least 2 metres (6 ft) away from other people:
- Shopping for basic necessities, for example food and medicine, which must be as infrequent as possible.
- One form of exercise a day, for example a run, walk, or cycle - alone or with members of their household.
- Any medical need, or to provide care or to help a vulnerable person.
- Travelling to and from work, but only where this absolutely cannot be done from home.
Communal spaces within parks and other outdoor open green spaces, such as playgrounds, tennis courts, sports pitches, MUGAs, skateboard areas, public toilets and other such facilities, should now be closed and should not be used.
If you are responsible for managing an outdoor open green space, recreation ground, play area or other similar facility, the OPFA suggests that you should act on these Government orders as follows:
Where you can, lock any gates to communal places, as identified above. Whether or not these kinds of facility can be closed in this way, you should post a notice to insist that the facility must not be used.
You need not prevent entry into an outdoor open green space, which in itself does not count as a communal place as identified above, so long as you have closed any eligible communal spaces (or put up notices preventing use) within it.
You should put a notice at the entrance urging users to do the following:
- observe social distancing by keeping at least 2 metres/6 foot away from other people
- keep dogs on a lead to avoid unnecessary contact with other space users
- encourage people to wash their hands before leaving home and as soon as they return from being outside.
It would probably be helpful to publicise within your community what you have done and why you have done it and to remind people of what are the Government recommendations for individuals in terms of exercise and social distancing.
This information has been provided in the light of Government advice available at the time of writing (24 March 2020)
A NEW COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER FOR OPFA
OPFA is pleased to announce that our new Community Development Officer (CDO) is Andrew Parsons, who will be working with us from 11 November 2019 to deliver OPFA’s information and advice service.
For the past 16 years Andrew has been an independent consultant focusing particularly on green space good practice issues.
He has previously worked as Head of Parks and Green Spaces at Oxford City Council.
Andrew was jointly responsible for re-writing the Green Flag Award scheme’s guidance manual “Raising the Standard” and led the partnership review of the Green Flag Award scheme on behalf of CABE Space. The Green Flag Award scheme recognises and rewards well managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.
Andrew was also instrumental in the development of SPACESHAPER, a toolkit that allows communities to measure the quality of a public space before investing time and money in improving it and have led many workshops since.
He has managed grants projects on behalf of the Big Lottery fund through their Living Spaces and Community Spaces programmes, which provided support towards the improvement of community assets for voluntary groups. Working with community groups he led over twenty major projects valued at £1,200,000, which included the provision of sports areas, children’s play areas and major building refurbishment.
He also led the procurement process for grounds maintenance services for Hounslow Borough Council and has delivered many options appraisals for the future delivery of grounds maintenance services including commissions from Guildford, Crawley and Swindon.
We are delighted to welcome Andrew to our organisation and he is looking forward to helping local community organisations providing and managing outdoor recreational spaces.
The CDO contact details remain the same: email [email protected]; phone 01295 817662.
Trustees Annual Report
The trustees annual report for the year 2018-2019 can now be downloaded via the link below.
Trustees Annual Report 2018-2019
OPFA Newsletter
Our newsletter is sent out quarterly to all of our members. Browse current and past editions via the links below.
Current editions
Spring 2020
Past editions
Autumn 2019 Oxfordshire
Autumn 2019 South Northants
Summer 2019 Oxfordshire
Summer 2019 South Northants
Spring 2019 South Northants
Spring 2019 Oxfordshire
Winter 2019 Oxfordshire
Autumn 2018 Oxfordshire
Summer 2018 Oxfordshire
Summer 2018 South Northants
Spring 2018 newsletter
Winter 2018 newsletter
Winter 2018 newsletter South Northants
Autumn 2017 newsletter
Come and join our friendly OPFA Executive Committee:
It can be amusing amid the business!
OPFA is looking for some more community-minded people who would be interested in helping to take our organisation forward into a changing but rewarding future. Could it be you or someone you know?
The Committee, whose volunteer members are the managing trustees of the charity, currently meets on a weekday up to 4 times a year. The Committee’s role is to make sure that the OPFA is managed effectively and is as financially secure as is possible in these challenging times, so that we can continue to provide our information and advice services to community groups around the county.
Between them the Committee’s existing members already bring a range of useful and relevant interests, skills and experience, so we don’t need to recruit anyone who is an expert on every aspect of organisation management, playing space provision or operating as a community-focussed organisation alongside other partners in Oxfordshire. An interest in what OPFA does and in sharing thoughts and ideas, and just some relevant experience, is all we ask. There is plenty of mutual support and sources of expert information and advice both nationally and locally that the Committee can call on. What we need is some enthusiasm and a willingness to give , free of charge, just a bit of time back to OPFA.
If you would like to see if this is an opportunity that would suit you, please call the OPFA office on 01295 817662 or email Meryl Smith, the Hon. Manager, on [email protected]. If you think you know someone else who might be interested, please give them these contact details.
Project Management and other new OPFA services
We are working hard to diversify the services that we offer in response to the need that we have recognised in our county. We understand that changing times and pressure from housing developments mean that parish councils and recreation space managers are now facing a new set of challenges. These include ensuring that facilities are adequate for an expanding population and therefore making the most of developer contributions. OPFA can help you to navigate this minefield and put a robust case in place for the facilities that you need. We can also act as the project manager on playground installations and other facility improvement projects.
For full details of the new services we offer, please download our consultancy leaflet