COVID-19 Statement Learn by Design programmes, events and workshops.

We would like to update you on Learn by Design programmes, events and workshops and the risks associated with the current outbreak of COVID-19, a disease caused by a new coronavirus.

Learn by Design programmes include: NCS, The Big Bang Fairs, @school events and all school workshops and booked days.

Learn by Design (in conjunction with the Senior Management Team) are closely monitoring the advice of the World Health Organisation and Public Health England. We are in close contact with the DfE and the daily updates that are announced. We will adhere to their advice or steps as required. The situation is changing daily, therefore any advice now will certainly either be out of date or radically changed as we get closer to each engagement planned. There are a few things we can say:

Are Learn by Design programmes and workshops cancelled?

NO! At the time of writing (9 March 2020), Big Bang @school events, Big Bang Platform events (York & Humber, Midlands Derby and London) 2020 is still anticipated to happen, and the delivery is proceeding according to the programme plans. We have no intention of cancelling any Learn by Design booked events, workshops or programmes unless we are forced to in the interest of the health and safety of all those involved or if venues are in lockdown.

Please note that Learn by Design Terms and Conditions have been agreed to by participating groups and contractors. Contractors may have different agreements with their own funders regarding cancellations, due to unforeseen circumstances.

What if we’re travelling from abroad?

We urge you to take the advice regarding travel from whoever your Health Authority is in your country of residence.

What are we doing at Learn by Design now?

Firstly, business as usual: Our volunteers and staff are working every day on the delivery of programmes, events and workshops for 2020 with great dedication. Secondly, we are monitoring the situation. A special task force has been appointed to stay up to date with the latest developments and ensure that precautions and preventive measures are implemented in the medical service and operations in the lead-up to and during 2020 delivery.

What should you as groups/schools/registered bookings do to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak?

We recommend that you follow general precautions during preparation for any events, programmes or workshops booked with Learn by Design. The basic principles to reduce the general risk of transmission of acute respiratory infections include the following:

· Avoiding close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections

· Frequent handwashing, especially after direct contact with ill people or their environment 􀁸 Avoiding unprotected contact with farm or wild animals

· People with symptoms of acute respiratory infection should practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, and wash hands)

While the World Health Organisation and Public Health England are still learning about how COVID-19 affects the general population, older persons and persons with pre-existing medical conditions (such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes), appear to develop serious illness more often than others.

Learn by Design