Dear All,

Revised guidelines of social walks are now available on the National LDWA website and these can be downloaded from the Toolkit part of the Members section.

In summary, the LDWA has not applied any Covid-19 restrictions to social walks in addition to Government guidance. Walk leaders and walkers must exercise caution and take personal responsibility for complying with Government Covid-19 guidance.

There is no limit on numbers but individual walk leaders can restrict numbers on a walk, and ask people to pre-book, if they choose.

It is no longer mandatory to complete a written risk assessment but this is considered good practice and the LDWA strongly recommends that this practice is continued.

A register of members still needs to be completed for insurance purposes, and contact details for guests should be recorded. A register and visitor sheet will be supplied to all walk leaders, and they can delegate the task of completion to another member. A pro-forma risk assessment can also be supplied.

We have been very fortunate that a limited number of dedicated walk leaders have kept our programme of social walks going through COVID restrictions, for this we are very grateful. It is hoped now that more people will come forward and offer to lead a walk; perhaps you could dust off a previously planned walk that had to be cancelled? If you are new to leading and would like some help and advice, or would like to team up with someone more experienced, do ask.

I hope to receive details of some new walks soon, particularly for walks from September onwards.

Best Wishes,

Anne Brown

Dorset LDWA Walks Secretary

dorset.ldwa.walks@gmail.com

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