Latest updated information

Coronavirus Guidance for Property

Update 20 January 2022 – Announcement from the Prime Minister

Yesterday the PM made an announcement regarding the lifting of Plan B pandemic restrictions, which included the following:

The government is no longer asking people to work from home if they can. People should now talk to their employers to agree arrangements to return to the office.
From 27 January: There is no longer a legal requirement to wear a face covering. The government suggests that you continue to wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces where you may come into contact with other people you do not normally meet.
From 27 January: Those venues and events will no longer be required by law to check visitors’ NHS COVID Pass. The NHS COVID Pass can still be used on a voluntary basis.

We have been advised this morning by the Faith Minister, Kemi Badenoch, that the Government’s Places of Worship guidance will be updated in advance of the changes which will be implemented from 27 January. All current Methodist guidance for churches therefore remains current until this date. The property team will be reviewing the new guidance when it is published and will provide updates at that time.

Update 13 December 2021 – Update of Government Guidance for Places of Worship

Please note that the document COVID-19: guidance for the safe use of places of worship – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) has been updated to incorporate the changes announced as part of the implementation of Plan B restrictions. This does not supercede the Methodist Church’s guidance published previously below, and therefore both sets of guidance can and should be read together.

Update 9 December 2021 – Changes to Government Guidance

Following the announcement by the Prime Minister on 8 December to move to Plan B measures (ENGLAND ONLY) to combat the spread of the Omicron variant, a number of restrictions will affect those worshipping, using or working within Methodist church property settings. We will continue to monitor Government guidance and provide updates or further details as they become available:

What are the main considerations for using our buildings following Government Plan B guidance?

1. Is it a legal requirement to wear face coverings in a Place of Worship?

YES – All those using a place of worship or ancillary buildings have to wear a face covering by law from Friday 10 December 2021. The Government guidance also outlines situations where individuals may be exempt. This is outlined here – Face coverings: when to wear one, exemptions, and how to make your own – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). There are reasonable exemptions from this, while someone is leading worship or giving a reading for example. For specific guidance on singing see below.

Can we still use our church buildings?

YES – there are currently no restrictions on continuing to use our church buildings. Although the Government is now advising office workers to work from home if they can from Monday 13 December. Churches should therefore consider how this advice affects those who work or use the church building and if temporary adjustments can be made during this period. For further information refer to – Coronavirus: how to stay safe and help prevent the spread – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

Do we need to ask building users for a NHS Covid Pass?

NO – places of worship and ancillary buildings will not be required to ask for evidence from building users, see Coronavirus: how to stay safe and help prevent the spread – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) under the heading Required use of the NHS COVID Pass. This includes activities such as communal worship, and ceremonies to mark life events such as weddings and funerals. Note: activities which take place after these events in the building such as wedding receptions, will only need to request a NHS Covid Pass if there are 500 or more attending indoors.

Can we still sing in church?

YES – the current Government changes have not advised against singing. In relation to face coverings whilst singing, the current Government guidance states the following:

“There is a reasonable excuse for someone to remove a face covering when it is reasonably necessary for them to sing, for example, if they are singing as part of a choir, or during a service, rehearsal or for a performance.

This does not extend to circumstances where it is not reasonably necessary to sing. For example, it may not be reasonably necessary for someone to sing whilst shopping, on public transport, or whilst in an in-scope setting such as a cinema, theatre or library.

This change allows those who are taking part in activities where singing is reasonably necessary to choose to remove their face covering if they prefer whilst singing. When singing, you should consider keeping the face covering on.”

Face coverings: when to wear one, exemptions, and how to make your own – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Based on this guidance, we would advise that those singing in specific settings such as choirs/worship groups can remove their face coverings to sing, as it is for those leading a service or preaching for example. In other situations though, particularly in a setting of communal singing, we would strongly advise that face coverings are kept on.

Should we continue to ventilate indoors or meet outdoors if possible:

YES – If this is not possible or practical, Government SAGE data suggests that opening windows regularly for 10 minutes, or a small amount continuously, can help reduce the risk of transmission compared to no ventilation. The use of CO₂ monitors can also help highlight areas of poor natural ventilation in a building. There is also an ‘easy read’ version of the Government’s more detailed ventilation guidance, which can be found here – Ventilation of indoor spaces to stop the spread of COVID-19 (easy read) (publishing.service.gov.uk).

Do we need to socially distance?

NO – there is currently no Government requirement for the reintroduction of social distancing within church settings. A level of distancing to protect those who are vulnerable can be considered though as part of a specific risk assessment for the room or activity. This is a local decision for the managing trustees, based on the local situation.

Should we continue to get tested and self-isolate if needed:

YES – Anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 should self-isolate and take a free PCR test as soon as possible. Anyone who tests positive must self-isolate. Equally, anyone notified they are a close contact of someone who has tested positive should also take a free PCR test as soon as possible and self-isolate if required. Stay at home if you are feeling unwell.

Should we continue to encourage good hygiene practice:

YES – Provide hand sanitiser in convenient areas throughout the building for everyone to use; keep established practices of cleaning surfaces touched regularly and rooms with high use by different groups such as toilets and kitchens.

What other considerations should we be aware of during this period?

Continue to use live-stream and other forms of online communication:

Continue with the positive changes that have been made during the pandemic. Perhaps this has been live-streaming services or similar online and outward-looking mission. Look to improve on these as a means of giving people within and outside the church continued access to worship, teaching and support during this period.

Is there additional information for working in settings with children and young people?

YES – please refer to guidance produced by the Children, Youth and Families Ministry Team – https://www.methodist.org.uk/our-work/children-youth-family-ministry/the-well-learning-hub-equipping-and-supporting-workers/resources-and-help-for-lockdown-and-beyond/

Further considerations for face to face services:

Care should be taken to reduce the risk of spreading the virus, including reviewing the length of service and the number of hymns sung (when permitted), avoiding various people handling the same piece of equipment etc.
For the time being, we suggest ministers should refrain from using the common cup for Holy Communion.
We recommend keeping the elements to be distributed covered during the thanksgiving prayer if it is deemed inappropriate for the presiding minister to wear a mask.
Similarly, for the time being, consider retaining the reasonable safe practices for cafes when providing or distributing food and drink, such as after a service or other events.

Are there any changes for those undertaking pastoral work?

YES – from 11 November 2021, those undertaking pastoral work within Care Quality Commission-regulated care homes providing accommodation for persons who require nursing or personal care have to be fully vaccinated.

Are there any printed resources available for buildings?

YES – the Government has digital resources available to download from the CRC (Campaign Resource Centre) and there is also a DHSC press release with details on the booster vaccine programme.

Is there any additional Methodist Church information to which churches can refer?

YES – The key documents to review are:

Update 21 July 2021

One of the aims of the latest government communiqué is to enable the public to make informed decisions. We are keen ministers and leadership teams do likewise. We offer these guidelines to help you, and your leadership teams, make decisions linked to your local context. To view the current government guidance, please refer to the Safe Use of Places of Worship.

What will the lifting of restrictions mean for churches and communal worship?

As the government restrictions have been lifted, there is an emphasis on ‘personal responsibility.’ Currently, the guidance states that:

No maximum numbers for meeting in any indoor or outdoor environments, including removing restrictions on group sizes attending communal worship.
Communal singing can resume.
All venues currently closed will be allowed to open.
No restrictions on weddings, funerals or baptisms.
No requirement for Covid-19 vaccination status certification to enter a venue.
No legal requirement to wear a face covering, although it will be ‘advised’ for enclosed and crowded spaces.
No social distancing rules, although the risks to those deemed vulnerable need to be considered.
No need for ‘Covid-secure’ environments.
Encouragement to continue good cleaning and hygiene procedures.
Good fresh air supplies into a property will still be encouraged, and steps should be taken to improve it if ventilation is poor.
There may be temporary local restrictions or additional advice offered by health officials in areas of high infection rates, so this will need monitoring locally.
No further work-from-home directive.
An encouragement to continue to use the NHS Test and Trace system.

What does the Methodist Church advise?

The Methodist Church, whilst always adhering to government advice, is urging some caution for the sake of others in the church, community and for self-care.

Firstly, from a missional perspective, reflect on and continue with the positive changes that have been made during the pandemic. Perhaps this has been live-streaming services or more outward-looking mission into the community through outdoor services, prayer or house groups or other events. Look to improve on these as a means of giving people within and outside the church continued access to worship, teaching and support during this period of transition and change.
This will help in considering whether it is appropriate to return to a building or whether the mission of God and the work of the church is better done in another way. In some places, the decision might even be not to resume physical worship in the building. This should not be seen as a failure, but as a response to the movement of the Spirit of God as we seek to create new places for new people.
Please refer to the Guide to Managing Your Church Building for further information.

What should we consider before reopening our church buildings?

If you have not yet reopened the building, we would recommend a cautious, phased return. We encourage dialogue with congregations to ensure they feel safe to return to in-person worship. The aim is to build up the community of believers who feel safe, rather than see them staying away for fear of the virus.
Likewise, we encourage early discussions with individuals or groups from the wider community who will be returning to use your building to ensure that any concerns and expectations are shared through a transparent process. Work together to risk assess all those using the building and any new bookings with Covid-19 safety measures in mind.
Before opening the building, please work through the Re-Opening a Building Checklist (Word) or (pdf) followed by a Covid-19 Risk Assessment (Word) or (pdf). Please note that churches can choose to use other risk assessment forms if that is their preference.

How can we make our buildings as safe as possible?

In returning to buildings, consideration should be given to:

Appropriate use of face coverings. Would it be sensible as a congregation to wear them for a little longer?
Good ventilation to properties or considering meeting outdoors.
Encouraging frequent hand washing and keeping sanitiser out for people to use.
Encouraging people to stay at home if they are unwell.
Considering individual risks: such as clinical vulnerabilities, illness and vaccination status.
Retaining retiring offering or online giving rather than ‘passing the offering plate’.
Deter handshaking and hugging and find other ways to share ‘the Peace’.
Encourage the continued use of personal, not shared items, such as books.
Refer to the Cleaning Churches during Covid-19 for further guidance on cleaning.

Further guidance for ministers and leaders of worship

Those who lead worship should bear in mind that the virus is still highly prevalent. Care should be taken to reduce the risk of spreading the virus, including reviewing the length of service and the number of hymns sung (when permitted), avoiding various people handling the same piece of equipment etc.
For the time being, we suggest ministers should refrain from using the common cup for Holy Communion.
We recommend keeping the elements to be distributed covered during the thanksgiving prayer if it is deemed inappropriate for the presiding minister to wear a mask. It may be wise for those distributing to wear face coverings.
Similarly, for the time being, consider retaining the reasonable safe practices for cafes when providing or distributing food and drink, such as after a service or other events.
Although not required by law, it is probably wise to retain the NHS Test and Trace system for the time being in case of an outbreak in the church community. We would want to be able to inform our neighbours to proceed with caution if someone they had come into contact with had tested positive.
We do not recommend requesting proof of vaccination before a person is admitted to church.
Review the Guide for Pastoral Visits when preparing for pastoral visits.

Careful risk assessment of a building should be carried out before congregations return. The key documents to review are:

Update 13 July 2021

Changes to Government Guidance

One of the aims of the latest government communiqué is to enable the public to make informed decisions. We are keen ministers and leadership teams do likewise. We offer these guidelines to help you, and your leadership teams, make decisions linked to your local context.
The Property Team will be reviewing more detailed Connexional guidance following the Prime Minister’s update on the 12 July, and posting this from 19 July, when the Government will lift most restrictions.
Although there are no specific updates to the government guidance document concerning places of worship yet, the Health Secretary announced to the House of Commons that from the 19 July there will be ‘…no restrictions on communal worship and singing’. This includes singing at weddings, funerals and baptisms.

What will the lifting of restrictions mean for churches and communal worship?

When government restrictions are removed, the emphasis will be on ‘personal responsibility.’ Currently, the Government is indicating that this will mean:

No maximum numbers for meeting in any indoor or outdoor environments, including removing restrictions on group sizes attending communal worship.
Communal singing can resume.
All venues currently closed will be allowed to open.
No restrictions on weddings, funerals or baptisms.
No requirement for Covid-19 vaccination status certification to enter a venue.
No legal requirement to wear a face covering, although it will be ‘advised’ for enclosed and crowded spaces.
No social distancing rules, although the risks to those deemed vulnerable need to be considered.
No need for ‘Covid-secure’ environments.
Encouragement to continue good cleaning and hygiene procedures.
Good fresh air supplies into a property will still be encouraged, and steps should be taken to improve it if ventilation is poor.
There may be temporary local restrictions or additional advice offered by health officials in areas of high infection rates, so this will need monitoring locally.
No further work-from-home directive.
An encouragement to continue to use the NHS Test and Trace system.

What does the Methodist Church advise?

The Methodist Church, whilst always adhering to government advice, is urging some caution for the sake of others in the church, community and for self-care.

Firstly, from a missional perspective, reflect on and continue with the positive changes that have been made during the pandemic. Perhaps this has been live-streaming services or more outward-looking mission into the community through outdoor services, prayer or house groups or other events. Look to improve on these as a means of giving people within and outside the church continued access to worship, teaching and support during this period of transition and change.
This will help in considering whether it is appropriate to return to a building or whether the mission of God and the work of the church is better done in another way. In some places, the decision might even be not to resume physical worship in the building. This should not be seen as a failure, but as a response to the movement of the Spirit of God as we seek to create new places for new people.

What should we consider before reopening our church buildings?

If you have not yet reopened the building, we would recommend a cautious, phased return. We encourage dialogue with congregations to ensure they feel safe to return to in-person worship. The aim is to build up the community of believers who feel safe, rather than see them staying away for fear of the virus.
Likewise, we encourage early discussions with individuals or groups from the wider community who will be returning to use your building to ensure that any concerns and expectations are shared through a transparent process. Work together to risk assess all those using the building and any new bookings with Covid-19 safety measures in mind.

How can we make our buildings as safe as possible?

In returning to buildings, consideration should be given to:

Appropriate use of face coverings. Would it be sensible as a congregation to wear them for a little longer?
Good ventilation to properties or considering meeting outdoors.
Encouraging frequent hand washing and keeping sanitiser out for people to use.
Encouraging people to stay at home if they are unwell.
Considering individual risks: such as clinical vulnerabilities, illness and vaccination status.
Retaining retiring offering or online giving rather than ‘passing the offering plate’.
Deter handshaking and hugging and find other ways to share ‘the Peace’.
Encourage the continued use of personal, not shared items, such as books.

Further guidance for ministers and leaders of worship

Those who lead worship should bear in mind that the virus is still highly prevalent. Care should be taken to reduce the risk of spreading the virus, including reviewing the length of service and the number of hymns sung (when permitted), avoiding various people handling the same piece of equipment etc.
For the time being, we suggest ministers should refrain from using the common cup for Holy Communion.
We recommend keeping the elements to be distributed covered during the thanksgiving prayer if it is deemed inappropriate for the presiding minister to wear a mask. It may be wise for those distributing to wear face coverings.
Similarly, for the time being, consider retaining the reasonable safe practices for cafes when providing or distributing food and drink, such as after a service or other events.
Although not required by law, it is probably wise to retain the NHS Test and Trace system for the time being in case of an outbreak in the church community. We would want to be able to inform our neighbours to proceed with caution if someone they had come into contact with had tested positive.
We do not recommend requesting proof of vaccination before a person is admitted to church.

Careful risk assessment of a building should be carried out before congregations return. See the Guide to Managing Your Church Building tab towards the bottom of this page.

Update 6 July 2021

The Property Support team are reviewing the current Coronavirus guidance in light of the Government’s announcement on July 5^th and will look to provide as much clarity as we can in the coming weeks, and especially after the data is reviewed on July 12^th. We understand that the Prime Minister’s confirmation that there will be a relaxation of guidance in a couple of weeks may raise questions from churches about their particular context and we will do our best to support with these.

Update 16 June 2021

The government has updated the Guidance for Weddings & Civil Partnerships in England following the Prime Minister’s announcement. It states:

From 21 June, there will no longer be a maximum number cap for attendees set out in law. Instead, the number of attendees at weddings, civil partnerships and receptions will be determined by how many people the venue or space can safely accommodate with social distancing measures in place. This will be based on the COVID-19 risk assessment of the venue or outdoor space, and the measures put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.

For further information, please refer to the government Guidance for Weddings & Civil Partnerships. Please note that this is only for England.

Update 17 May 2021

The government has updated the Safe Use of Places of Worship to include details of how restrictions will be lifted for churches in England. As more information is released, we will update the information below. The key changes involved in each of the remaining Steps include:

Step 3 – 17 May 2021 (link to poster)

Most other significant life events can resume, limited to no more than 30 people. This will include events such as private baptisms, and naming ceremonies. Limits at weddings, wedding receptions, wakes and other commemorative events will be increased to 30 people.
Funerals will have no legal cap on the number of people who can attend. The number of attendees will be determined by how many people the venue can safely accommodate with social distancing measures in place.
Outdoors most legal restrictions on meeting others will be lifted – although gatherings of over 30 people will remain illegal unless otherwise exempt.
Support groups and parent and child group gathering limits will increase to 30 people (not including under 5s).

COVID Secure rules, including social distancing requirements, continue to apply in the workplace, and in businesses and public venues.

New guidance on meeting friends and family emphasises personal responsibility rather than government rules. Social distancing (staying at least 2m away from others) helps to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. The further away you can keep from other people, and the less time you spend in close contact with them, the less likely you are to catch COVID-19 and pass it on to others. Close contact, including hugging, increases the risk of spreading COVID-19.

You should consider the guidance on risks associated with COVID-19 and actions you can take to help keep you and your loved ones safe. Please refer to the guidance on meeting friends and family for further information and the actions to take to reduce the chance of spreading COVID-19.

Face Coverings

In England, face coverings are required by law to be worn in places of worship. There are valid exemptions for some individuals and groups to not wear a face covering in these settings. In particular, those who are leading permitted services or events in a place of worship, and those who assist them. Please refer to the guidance on the wearing of face coverings at a place of work and the guidance on face coverings.

Food and Drink

Where food or drink (‘consumables’) are essential to the act of worship, they can be used. Hospitality spaces within a place of worship, such as cafes, are permitted to open both inside and outside and managers should follow hospitality guidance. People may also provide their own food and drink at a place of worship but should ensure actions are taken to reduce the risk of transmission.

When consuming food and drink people should remain seated and take steps to minimise any risk of infection. People should not touch communal or shared objects, or handle items other than their own (for example, avoid the use of shared cutlery, dishes or service sheets).

Singing, Chanting and the Use of Musical Instruments

Where singing takes place, it should follow the principles of safer singing.

Indoors: a group of up to 6 amateur singers can perform, or rehearse for performance with social distancing being maintained at all times. There is no limit on the number of professional singers but they should follow guidance on performing arts. Performances should take place at the front of the place of worship to a seated audience. Indoor communal singing should not take place.
Outdoors: When worship takes place outdoors, the congregation may join in with singing in multiple groups of up to 30. Congregation members should continue to follow social distancing rules. For guidance on singing outdoors outside of acts of communal worship, please refer to the performing arts guidance.

Outdoor Worship

The law allows for multiple groups, each consisting of up to 30 people, to pray with the grounds of a place of worship or its grounds. Participants should continue to follow wider social distancing guidance. A risk assessment must be undertaken and COVID-19 Secure measures implemented. The number of people able to gather will therefore be dependent on the size of the space available. Please refer to Safe Use of Places of Worship for further information.

Step 4 – no earlier than 21 June

At Step 4, which will take place no earlier than 21 June, the government aims to remove all limits on life cycle events and other gatherings. This will be subject to the outcome of the scientific Events Research Programme, which will include a series of pilots using enhanced testing approaches and other measures to run events of larger sizes. The pilots have been selected to examine a range of settings, venue types, and activity types (e.g. seated or not, indoor/outdoor etc) so that the data is generalisable and findings can inform thinking on the reopening of similar settings across multiple sectors. This guidance will be updated as new guidance from the government is released ahead of that Step 4.

Further details for Step 3

For the remainder of Step 3, places of worship in England may open for the following purposes:

Activity	England
Private Prayer and Communal Worship	From Step 3, in line with indoor social contact limits individuals, groups of six, or larger groups where everyone present is from the same two households may attend. A ‘household’ can include a linked support bubble, where eligible. The number of individuals or groups permitted in a place of worship at any one time will be dependent on the size of the building and ability to socially distance therein. Limits for communal worship should be decided on the basis of the capacity of the place of worship following an assessment of risk. From Step 3, in line with indoor social contact limits, individuals may attend communal worship in groups of 6, or larger groups where everyone present is from the same 2 households.
Funerals	From Step 3, there will be no set numerical limit on the number of people who can attend a funeral. Instead, the number of attendees at a funeral will be determined by how many people the venue can safely accommodate with social distancing measures in place. Please refer to COVID-19: guidance for managing a funeral during the coronavirus pandemic. Social distancing (staying at least 2m away from others) helps to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. The further away you can keep from other people, and the less time you spend in close contact with them, the less likely you are to catch COVID-19 and pass it on to others. Close contact, including hugging, increases the risk of spreading COVID-19. You should consider the guidance on risks associated with COVID-19 and actions you can take to help keep you and your loved ones safe. Please refer to the guidance on meeting friends and family for further information and the actions to take to reduce the chance of spreading COVID-19.
Commemorative events to celebrate the life of a person who has died	These activities include the scattering of ashes and stone setting ceremonies. Such events and must have no more than 30 people in attendance. Anyone working is not included as part of the 30 person limit. Please refer to COVID-19: guidance for managing a funeral during the coronavirus pandemic.
Significant life events, outside of marriage ceremonies and funerals	Where such events are an element of communal worship, they are subject to the requirements for communal worship set out above. When not taking place as part of regular communal worship, from Step 3 standalone life events can take place with up to 30 people. Anyone working is not included as part of the 30 person limit. Please refer to the guidance on the Safe Use of Places of Worship.
Weddings and wedding receptions	There will be no set numerical limit on the number of people who can attend a wedding. Instead, the number of attendees will be determined by how many people the venue can safely accommodate with social distancing measures in place. Please refer to the guidance for small marriages and civil partnerships.
Broadcasting or Filming Worship	Broadcasting or filming an act of worship should only involve those people essential for the content of the service, and for technical support to enable people to watch and worship online or via a television or radio. If musicians or singers usually form part of the act of worship, they may participate.
Essential Voluntary and Public services	A place of worship may be used for essential voluntary and public services such as the provision of food banks or other support for the homeless or vulnerable people, blood donation sessions, or support in an emergency. See COVID-19 guidance for voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations.
Support Groups	Support groups can take place in gatherings of up to 30 (subject to capacity) in a COVID-19 secure community facility if organised by a business, a charitable, benevolent or philanthropic institution or a public body to provide mutual aid, therapy or any other form of support to its members or those who attend its meetings. Those working as part of the group are not counted towards the limit of 30. Examples of support groups include those that provide support to: Parent and toddler groups up to 30 people (not counting those under the age of 5) Weight loss programs New parents Those who have suffered bereavement Those with, or caring for persons with, any long-term illness or terminal condition or who are vulnerable Vulnerable young people, including to enable them to meet youth workers Victims of crime (including domestic abuse) Those with, or recovering from, addictions (including alcohol, narcotics or other substance addictions) or addictive patterns of behaviour Those facing issues related to their sexuality or identity including those living as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender Please refer to the Safe Use of Multi-Purpose Facilities for more information.
Children and Youth Activities	Out-of-school settings and wraparound childcare providers can offer provisions to all children, without restriction on the reason for which they may attend, both indoor and outdoor. Out-of-school settings and wraparound childcare providers operating from a place of worship should follow the protective measures outlined in this guidance, as well as the guidance on holiday or after-school clubs. Please refer to the Protective Measures for Out of School and Holiday Club Settings or the National Youth Agency Covid-19 Guidance for further information. For more information on pre-schools, please refer to the Guidance for Early Years Education.
Indoor Sport and Leisure Activities	Indoor leisure facilities may open for you to exercise on your own, in groups of up to 6 people or in a group of any size from up to 2 households. Please refer to the guidance on grassroots sports and dance classes should also consider the performing arts guidance.
Extra-curricular Activities and Coffee Mornings	People can visit indoor venues in a group of up to 6 people from different households or a larger group of any size from up to 2 households including support bubbles. Please refer to the Safe Use of Multi-Purpose Facilities for more information.
Church cafes	Can open for both indoor and outdoor seating. Please refer to Working Safely in Restaurants and Cafes for more information.
Non-essential retail (charity shops, etc)	Retail shops are open. Please refer to the Working Safely in Shops for more information.
Church council meetings	Church council meetings can meet face to face to fulfil their legal duty, but only if it is reasonably necessary, and there are no alternative options. Those in attendance must adhere to the rule of 6 people or 2 households indoors, or 30 people outdoors. Please refer to the safety precautions listed in the Guidance for Church Councils.

For all other information relating to places of worship, please refer to the Safe Use of Places of Worship and the Safe Use of Multi-Purpose Facilities, which will give further details.

Update 30 March 2021

From Step 1- 29 March (link to roadmap poster)

Up to 6 people, or two households, can gather outdoors including in private gardens
Weddings and civil partnership ceremonies can take place with up to 6 people
Funerals remain limited to 30 people
Wakes are limited to 6 people
Singing Indoors: – a single small group of singers will be allowed to perform, or rehearse for performance, only where essential to an act of communal worship. This should be limited to as few singers as possible, with social distancing being maintained at all times. Communal singing should not take place.
Singing Outdoors, in the grounds or the outside space of a place of worship: When communal worship takes place outdoors, the congregation may join in with singing, and should follow the principles set out in the performing arts guidance. People can gather in groups of up to six or two households. A ‘household’ can include a linked support bubble.

From Step 2 – no earlier than 12 April

Funerals remain limited to 30 people
Weddings and civil partnership ceremonies, wakes and wedding receptions and wakes are limited to 15 people
Church council meetings can be held in the building
Children and youth activities are allowed

From Step 3 – no earlier than 17 May

Up to 6 people, or two households, can gather indoors
Most significant life cycle events can resume, limited to no more than 30 people. This will include events such as weddings, wakes, private baptisms, naming ceremonies and stone setting ceremonies
Wedding receptions can also proceed with up to 30 people

Step 4 – no earlier than 21 June

At Step 4, the government aims to remove all limits on life cycle events and other gatherings. This will be subject to the outcome of the scientific Events Research Programme, which will include a series of pilots using enhanced testing approaches and other measures to run events of larger sizes.

Further details for Step 1

For the remainder of Step 1, places of worship in England may open for the following purposes:

Activity	England
Individual Prayer	A person, or single household, which may include an existing support bubble where eligible, entering the venue to pray on their own. The number of individuals or households permitted in a place of worship at any one time will be dependent on the size of the building and ability to socially distance therein.
Communal Worship & Prayer	Limits for communal worship should be decided on the basis of the capacity of the place of worship following an assessment of risk.
Broadcasting or Filming Worship	Attending a place of worship for broadcasting or filming an act of worship is permitted but should only involve those people working or volunteering who are essential for the content of the service, and for technical support to enable people to watch and worship online or via a television or radio. If musicians or singers usually form part of the act of worship that is being broadcast, they may participate. The numbers or people involved should be kept as small as possible to minimise risks and participants should follow social distancing guidance.
Wedding Ceremonies	Weddings and civil partnership ceremonies must only take place with up to 6 people. Anyone working is not included. Please refer to the guidance for small marriages and civil partnerships.
Wedding Receptions	Are not permitted
Funerals	Funerals must have no more than 30 people. Anyone working is not included as part of the 30 person limit. Please refer to COVID-19: guidance for managing a funeral during the coronavirus pandemic.
Post-death Commemorative Events	These are events which commemorate or mark the deceased’s passing. Examples include the scattering of ashes and stone setting ceremonies. Such events must have no more than 6 people in attendance. Anyone working is not included as part of the 6 person limit. These limits on attendance do not typically apply to communal worship services, where prayers for the deceased may be said.
Other Standalone Life-Cycle Ceremonies	Where such events are an element of communal worship they may continue, but they are subject to the requirements for communal worship set out above.
Childcare and education	These activities are permitted to continue indoors where the provision is for: vulnerable children and young people all other children, where the provision is one of the following: reasonably necessary to enable their parents and carers to work, search for work, undertake education or training, or attend a medical appointment or address a medical need, or attend a support group being used by electively home educating parents as part of their arrangements for their child to receive a suitable full-time education being used as part of their efforts to obtain a regulated qualification, meet the entry requirements for an education institution, or to undertake exams and assessments where the place of worship is used as part of a school. numbers should be limited to the number of people who can safely socially distance in the venue in line with COVID-19 Secure guidance. See guidance for providers of out-of-school settings for more information on group sizes and other protective measures. Outdoor provision for all children is also permitted from 29 March, without restrictions on the purpose for which they may attend.
Essential Voluntary and Public services	These will include the provision of food banks or other support for the homeless or vulnerable people, blood donation sessions, or support in an emergency. See COVID-19 guidance for voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations
Support Groups	Support groups that have to be delivered in person can continue with up to 15 participants where formally organised to provide mutual aid, therapy or any other form of support. They must not take place in a private home. Examples include support to: victims of crime (including domestic abuse) those with, or recovering from, addictions (including alcohol, narcotics or other substance addictions) or addictive patterns of behaviour new parents those with, or caring for persons with, any long-term illness or terminal condition or who are vulnerable those facing issues related to their sexuality or identity including those living as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender those who have suffered bereavement vulnerable young people, including to enable them to meet youth workers The limit of 15 does not include children under 5 who are accompanying a parent or guardian. Anyone working would also not be included.
Church cafes	Remain closed unless providing a takeaway service (until 11pm).
Non-essential retail (charity shops, etc)	Remain closed.
Church council meetings	Should be held remotely
Children and Youth Activities	Separate activities are not permitted

Update 4 March 2021

Although the announcement was made for the roadmap out of lockdown in England, the guidance for churches has not changed because churches have been allowed to remain open during this latest lockdown. Thus, the guidance listed below is current until the government makes changes to guidance for the Safe Use of Places of Worship or the Safe Use of Multi-Purpose Facilities.

However, the guidance for Out of School Settings has been updated, which may impact some churches. From 8 March 2021, providers should only offer indoor and outdoor face-to-face provision for:

Vulnerable children and young people
Reasonably necessary to enable their parents and carers to work, search for work, undertake education or training, or attend a medical appointment or address a medical need, or attend a support group
Being used by electively home educating parents as part of their existing arrangements for their child to receive a suitable full-time education
Being used as part of their efforts to obtain a regulated qualification, meet the entry requirements for an education institution, or to undertake exams and assessments

Update 15 January 2021

The latest guidance for Places of Worship was published on 11 January and it should be noted that guidance for singing in churches in England has been updated in the light of current restrictions. The following is a summary:

Where singing or chanting is essential to an act of worship, this should be limited to one person wherever possible. Exceptionally, where it is essential to the service, up to three individuals should be permitted to do so. Strict social distancing should be observed and the use of plexi-glass screens should be considered to protect worshippers, and each other.
Communal singing should not take place. This applies even if social distancing is being observed or face coverings are used.
Chanting, shouting and/or playing of instruments that are blown into should also be avoided in communal worship and in rehearsals.
Where communal singing plays a big part in worship, and recordings are available, we suggest you use these as an alternative to live singing.

Update 5 January 2021

Following the Prime Minister’s statement on 4 January 2021, a new National Lockdown has been announced in England. This now supercedes all other previous government guidance, including the Tier system. This came into effect from midnight on 4 January 2021.

A number of the restrictions outlined in the new government guidance affect Methodist Church property. Unlike previous lockdown decisions, the government has decided that churches can remain open, along with community buildings for certain activities. Click here to read more.

Despite this government decision, it should be borne in mind that the opening of our church buildings is not mandatory, and it remains the responsibility of each Church Council to make this significant decision – which should not be taken lightly. It should be based upon thorough risk assessments and planning to ensure that it is safe to do so. Every venue should fully meet the health and safety requirements for a COVID-19 secure environment in opening and operation, including the impact on those opening a building and those attending if they fall into a vulnerable group.

The Connexional team have provided a variety of information on alternative ways to worship, fellowship and explore mission. During this difficult time, we encourage you to explore these as alternatives to opening a building and the increased risks this may bring.

Please note that all church property must be COVID-19 secure if open for the uses outlined below.

Activity	England
Communal Worship & Prayer	Open but mixing of households/support bubbles is not allowed
Wedding Ceremonies	Can only take place with up to 6 people and should only take place in exceptional circumstances*
Wedding Receptions	Are not permitted
Funerals	Can take place with a maximum of 30 attendees *
Post-death Commemorative Events	Can take place with up to 6 attendees *
Other Standalone Life-Cycle Ceremonies	Can take place with up to 6 attendees *
Support Groups	If they have to be delivered in person, they can continue with up to 15 participants where formally organised to provide mutual aid, therapy or any other form of support.
Church cafes	Must close unless providing a takeaway service (until 11pm).
Non-essential retail (charity shops, etc)	Must close
Community Buildings	Must close except for a limited number of exempt activities including education and training, childcare purposes, hosting blood donation sessions and food banks and to provide medical treatment.

*This number does not include staff or anyone working during the event.

For all other information relating to places of worship, please refer to the Safe Use of Places of Worship and the Safe Use of Multi-Purpose Facilities, which gives further details.

Update 20 December 2020

Following the Prime Minister’s statement on 19 December 2020 a number of significant changes have been made to restrictions during the Christmas Period and for the rest of 2020. This comes into effect from 20 December 2020.

There are now four Tiers of restrictions across England, with Communal Worship still allowed in all four tiers, but with different restrictions for mixing and attendance in each. Please follow the links below to read the guidance for each Tier:

Tier 1 (Medium): Tier 1: Medium alert – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Tier 2 (High): Tier 2: High alert – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Tier 3 (Very High): Tier 3: Very High alert – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Tier 4 (Stay at Home): Tier 4: Stay at Home – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

A Full list of local restriction tiers by area – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) can be found through this link.

The government has also updated its Guidance for the Christmas period – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) in England, including its Making a Christmas bubble with friends and family – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk), please refer to this for specific restrictions on Christmas Day.

For all other information relating to places of worship, please refer to the Safe Use of Places of Worship and the Safe Use of Multi-Purpose Facilities, which gives guidance on different groups using the site.

Please note this is for England only so please check the websites for Scotland, Wales, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands (Guernsey & Jersey), for specific local changes.

Update 10 December 2020*

The government has published Guidance for the Christmas Period in England, which includes a section on Carol Singing. Carol singing is allowed indoors & outdoors by professional and amateur choirs. Additionally, the congregation can join in singing outdoors if the precautions listed in the Performing Arts guidance and the Principles for Safer Singing are followed. This includes maintaining 2m distance between groups and ensuring that attendees can arrive & depart safely from the venue.

As well, we have published Guidance for Christmas Celebrations to assist with planning and preparations for the Christmas season. You can also listen to an interview with Stephen Hetherington, the Director of Property Support, about guidelines for the Christmas period. * 0.00 10.15

Lastly, the government has posted more details for Tier 1 (Medium), Tier 2 (High) and Tier 3 (Very High). Other government updates include the Safe Use of Places of Worship and the Safe Use of Multi-Purpose Facilities, which gives guidance on different groups using the site.

Please note this is for England only and please check the websites for Scotland, Wales, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands (Guernsey & Jersey).

Update 1 December 2020

As well, we have published Guidance for Christmas Celebrations to assist with planning and preparations for the Christmas season.

Please note this is for England only and please check the websites for Scotland, Wales, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands (Guernsey & Jersey).

Update 25 November 2020

The Prime Minister has announced that England will be returning to a Local Restriction Tiers system from 2 December 2020. Read more about the details for each tier and view or printposters for each tier level.

Most of the guidelines will be familiar as they will be broadly the same as before the national lockdown was implemented in November. However, some adjustments will be made to improve on managing the transmission risks. The key thing to note is that communal worship will be able to restart from 2 December in all Local Restriction Tiers.

Please note that wherever a gathering can take place, social distancing of 2m should still be strictly maintained between anyone who doesn’t live together or are not in a ‘support bubble.’

Activity	Medium Tier 1	High Tier 2	Very High Tier 3
Communal Prayer	Open for as many people as can be safely accommodated with social distancing measures
Communal Worship	Can attend and interact in groups of up to 6 people from different households**	Can only interact indoors with your own households** but outdoors can interact in groups of up to 6 people	Can only interact with your own household** both indoors and outdoors
Wedding Ceremonies	Can take place with up to 15 attendees*
Wedding Receptions	Can take place with up to 15 attendees*	Can take place with up to 15 attendees*	Cannot take place
Funerals	Can take place with up to 30 attendees *
Post-death Commemorative Events	Can take place with up to 15 attendees *
Other Standalone Life-Cycle Ceremonies (not part of communal worship)	Can attend and interact in groups of up to 6 people from different households**	Can only interact indoors with your own households**, but outdoors can interact in groups of up to 6 people	Can only interact with your own household** both indoors and outdoors
Supervised Activities for Children (including Sunday school)	Can take place with no limit on the number of children permitted to attend, following COVID-Secure guidance. Adults must ensure social distancing at all times.

*This number does not include staff or anyone working during the event.
** Household or support bubbles

Please note this is for England only and please check local restrictions for:

Scotland (including Covid Protection Levels & Churches)
Wales
Isle of Man
Channel Islands (under the jurisdiction of either Jersey or Guernsey).

Update 12 November 2020

Minor updates including baby and toddler groups. See Coronavirus Guidance for Property

Update 5 November 2020

The new National Restrictions are now in effect from 5 November 2020 in England.*
As part of these new restrictions, places of worship and their ancillary accommodation will have to close or remain closed for congregational worship and all other user groups, except for the following:

Individual Prayer
To broadcast acts of worship
Funerals (a maximum of 30 close family & friends can attend)
Formal childcare or where part of a school (including OFSTED registered early years settings)
Essential voluntary and public services, such as blood donation or food banks
Support Groups
Place of work where the work cannot be carried out at home
Repairs or construction work that is being undertaken
Community cafés providing a take-away service only

Unfortunately wedding ceremonies will not be permitted to take place.

Full details of all the restrictions can be found here and a poster can be downloaded.
In addition, the legislation can be read here.

Update 3 November 2020

We have received a few queries regarding Remembrance Sunday. The government has stated that as an exemption from the new National Restrictions (subject to Commons vote on Wednesday), a service of remembrance can only take place outdoors around a cenotaph. Therefore, no congregational services can take place on church grounds but ministers can broadcast a service virtually. More information can be found here.

Update 2 November 2020

Following the Prime Minister’s statement on 31 October, it has been confirmed that new National Restrictions will be brought into effect from 5 November 2020 (subject to a Commons vote on Wednesday) in England.*
As part of these new restrictions, places of worship and their ancillary accommodation will have to close or remain closed for congregational worship and all other user groups, except for the following:

Individual Prayer
To broadcast acts of worship
Funerals (a maximum of 30 close family & friends can attend)
Formal childcare or where part of a school (including OFSTED registered early years settings)
Essential voluntary and public services, such as blood donation or food banks
Support Groups (click here to view the guidance)
Place of work where the work cannot be carried out at home
Repairs or construction work that is being undertaken
Community cafés providing a take-away service only

Unfortunately wedding ceremonies will not be permitted to take place.

Full details of all the restrictions can be found here.

Until 5 November, the restrictions under the 3 tier system should be followed. After 5 November, the National Restrictions will take precedence until they are lifted. We will expect more details to follow over the coming week. All such updates will be posted on the Methodist website, Signpost for Ministry, TMCP website and the usual communications channels (including social media) as they are made available.

*Please note this is for England only and please check local restrictions for Scotland and Wales.

Update 20 October 2020

The Welsh government has announced a Firebreak. During this time, places of worship are closed to the public, except for those invited to a wedding or funeral and for those broadcasting a worship service. Click here to read more.

The English government guidance on the Safe Use of Places of Worship has been updated to include a useful summary of restrictions for specific activities in each tier level. The Guide for Using Your Worship Space has been amend to reflect the Covid-19 Alert Level tier system. Updates have been made to the Guide to Managing Your Church Building. This guide is designed to assist in preparing for conducting a Covid-19 Risk Assessment (Word) or (pdf version). The HSE has also produced a sample risk assessment that may be of assistance.

For information regarding local lockdown in Scotland, click here.

Update 13 October 2020

The government has introduced a new system of local Covid-19 Alert Levels in England. Check the alert level for your area on the List of Areas with Local Restrictions. Then read through for the guidelines for the relevant alert level:

The government have also produced printable A4 Local Alert Level posters.
Guidance must be read in the context of where you live as devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales may have different guidelines.

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Methodist Church Coronavirus Guidance : updated 20 Jan