Updated advice for youth workers regarding Omicron variant in Scotland

Following the First Minister’s statement on 17 December, regarding the spread of Omicron in Scotland, youth work providers may wish to note the following updated advice:

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Advisory Sub-Group on Universities and Colleges: advice note for an early stage response to the Omicron variant of concern – advice note 10^th December.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): universities, colleges and community learning and development providers – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Keeping Schools Safe and Coronavirus (COVID-19): school and youth work visits and trips – updated COVID-19 guidance 17th December

At this time, face-to-face youth work delivery can continue to take place, including youth work in school settings and trips/residential experiences. Youth work providers should ensure that the Expectations before delivery are in place and may wish to consider:

• A strengthened approach to minimising contacts, such as through the reintroduction of groupings where practical, and avoiding face-to-face delivery of large events
• Ensuring reasonable physical distancing between young people and between young people and youth workers (schools have physical distancing of at least 1m)
• Reinforcing Scottish Government advice regarding regular asymptomatic testing

And should note:

• The strengthened approach to self-isolation for household contacts of positive cases
• Staff eligibility for voluntary exemption from self-isolation under critical worker guidance