there’s less risk of transmission. The easing of restrictions on
29 March and 12 April marked important milestones, with two households allowed to meet outdoors, then pubs and non-essential shops opening again. The government’s Reopening businesses and venues guidance states that at step two (12 April), outdoor events organised by a charity are allowed, subject to specifi c conditions – including that those attending do not mix beyond what is permitted by the social contact limits. When we reach step
three, charities may hold both indoor and outdoor events, again subject to specifi c conditions and groups not mixing.
REFUNDS AND CANCELLATIONS
The last thing you want is
to have to cancel your event, but with so much uncertainty, it could happen. Supply clear information about any contingency plans and tell everyone your refund policy.
Informally, up to 30 people may gather outdoors and the rule of six or two households applies indoors. The earliest this could happen is 17 May. At step four, it is hoped that all restrictions on social contact will be lifted. ‘Exactly what happens at step four is subject to the outcome of something called the Events Research Programme, alongside a review of social distancing measures,’ says Curtis. ‘Starting this month, the programme will see various settings and group sizes tested to see how the virus is passed around. It will be a few weeks before the results are apparent. I would hope to see that information by the end of May.’ PTAs should also follow guidance
from the Fundraising Regulator: 1) Keep up to date with announcements: Apply any new requirements and limitations to your fundraising activities. 2) Carry out risk-
assessments: Each type of fundraising has its own risks. Evaluate the risks to make sure
your activity is safe for participants and volunteers. Review regularly. 3) Make reasoned and informed decisions: Evaluate all decisions and weigh up the risks and benefi ts of any planned activities.
Tell your story There’s been an emphasis on community
outreach this year and you may not yet have a wishlist from the school. But now is a good time to remind supporters of what you do and why you’re there. Could the chair record a speech and upload to YouTube, or write a few paragraphs in the school newsletter describing not only what the PTA has purchased but the effect it has had on the children? Ask if the teachers or the children themselves could contribute. For more advice on how to tell your story, see
pta.co.uk/running- a-pta/managing-a-pta/how-storytelling- can-benefi t-your-pta/
18 SUMMER 2021
pta.co.uk
RAIN STOPS PLAY
The usual wet weather plans, such as moving an outdoor event inside, may not be permitted this year. Keep another date in reserve instead.
4) Protect the public: put measures in place to protect the public, fundraisers, staff and volunteers. Consider what changing government guidance means for staff and volunteer safety, whether it is putting in place social distancing measures, increased sanitation or other measures.
Talk to stakeholders Even though the PTA is a separate
entity, you’ll need the backing of the school. Talk to them about what might be possible, bearing the guidelines in mind. Then canvas regular PTA volunteers and parents and carers. ‘Don’t assume anything,’ says Curtis. ‘We all have an opinion, but opinions do change. By the end of May, people may feel more comfortable doing something they aren’t happy with now – or it could go the other way. Ask stakeholders what they would need to see happen to feel relaxed about the event you’re suggesting.’ It’s easy to get bogged down in
the dates, but the roadmap is only a guideline, with no guarantees. The risk of larger events not being allowed or being cancelled at short notice still remains high. Even as restrictions are lifted, it will still be essential for people to remember good habits such as washing hands, opening windows and getting tested at the fi rst sign of any symptoms.
● For more information, visit:
gov.uk/government/publications/ reopening-businesses-and-
venues-in-england ● Find further guidance at:
fundraisingregulator.org.uk/ more-from-us/news/regulating- fundraising-pandemic- restrictions-ease
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