Looking to the future

We're at the point in the Covid19 pandemic where people are beginning to plan and look to the future and we just wanted to reassure you that the RYA is no different.

Since the start of lockdown we've encouraged everyone to follow the government's clear desire for people to stay at home and save lives and we would like to thank everyone for their support of this stance.

At the same time, in conjunction with other sports and agencies, we've been inconstant communication with government to facilitate a return to boating as soon as practical and in accordance with any future government advice. We believe that as an inherently socially distanced outdoor activity, boating should be one of the first to restart as we emerge from lockdown.

We expect an announcement from the UK Government this week on their thinking on initial relaxation of current lockdown restrictions so are now developing a  Return to Boating strategic principles which aims to create consistency across the boating community whilst also providing you with the necessary guidance to implement locally, taking into account all unique considerations you will need to consider and review.

In the meantime, we encourage you to start considering the following:-

• How could your club facilitate activity which minimises the risk of transmitting infection? (including operating within any necessary social restrictions, adequate cleaning & hygiene measures and deciding which communal areas of the club will need to remain closed)

• How can your club reduce the likelihood of a callout to emergency services? (enhanced risk assessment/management, maintenance and safety)

We'll be doing what we can to support you through this process and are planning a series of interactive webinars through our #SailFromHome programme which will attempt to address each point in turn and will include topics like effective risk management, safety, maintenance and activity which can be facilitated within social distance restrictions.

As ever, there are plans to capture and share examples of best practice and innovative thinking so please reach out to us if you have already made significant progress in this area.

We can assure you that the entire RYA is looking forward to a phased return to normality where boating can take place once again, hopefully sooner rather than later and will keep you informed and updated with regards to our "Return to Boating" planning.

Please do contact us if you have any feedback, questions or concerns.