With the new Public Health Order for Gathering and Events (updated December 22nd, 2021) and update provided by Dr. Bonnie Henry on January 4th, 2022, we have once again reviewed our Pandemic Program & Modification Standards.
Given the review of the new PHO and that there are no changes to Overnight Camping, we are confident we continue to have the necessary precautions in place to maintain the safety and wellbeing of our youth and permit scouting in FVC to continue to operate in Stage 5 of the Pandemic Program & Modifications Standards. Meetings can take place outdoors and indoors; gathering size is as per Provincial guidelines (50% capacity of facility); unlimited sharing of equipment is permitted; and all sections may camp with no restrictions. As always, we continue to encourage that all groups and individuals use masks as an extra layer of protection to reduce the risk of transmission, and continue to review the PHOs when planning.
For camping, when planning your adventures, in addition to and the BP & P, please refer to the attached Covid Guidelines; the BC Camping Association Covid-19 Health & Safety Guidelines: Overnight Camps (which our guidelines have been reviewed to ensure they are in alignment); the PHO for Gathering and Events – December 22nd, 2021; and the PHO for Face Coverings (Covid-19)– December 3, 2021. We also encourage that you maintain a copy of your Safety plans (including safety Covid measures to reduce risk of transmission), and MAAF with you.
We recognize that comfort levels may vary, and we encourage all Group Commissioners to please have a conversation with your team to determine everyone’s level of comfort, and what is best for your community. Also, if you have any questions about the Stage 5 standards or would like help working through safety plans, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Group Support Scouter or to any member of the Council Key 3.
As always, we will continue to monitor and support the updates from the Chief Medical Officer and Public Health Office, and continue to keep you updated with any changes.
We recognize that these are fluid and uncertain times, and we appreciate all that you continue to do for the youth in Scouting and the community, and for your teams! Your hard work and diligence in planning adventures for youth will have a lasting effect. Thank you for being Amazing!
Be Well! Stay Safe!
Yours in Scouting,
Fraser Valley Council Key 3
Marshall Whittaker – Council Youth Commissioner
Tom Waldock - Council Commissioner
Viki Fanous - Council Relationship Manager
