Coronavirus guidance for YFC members

Updated: 10.07.2022 

YFCs are able to meet safely again and this page shares updates to help keep the YFC community safe.

The latest updates and advice from the English and Welsh Governments are available on the Government website or The Welsh Government website. 

Legal restrictions are no longer in place in England or in Wales.

In April 2022 the law in England was amended to remove all legal requirements and restrictions related to the Covid-19.

In May 2022 the law in Wales was amended to remove all legal requirements and restrictions related to the Covid-19.

Advice for YFCs in England and Wales - YFC Club and County meetings and events

YFC activities may still face some disruption from people (such as judges/stewards/competitors or officials running the event) not being able to attend due to the high rates of Covid-19 infection that are still in circulation.

YFCs should ensure their meetings and social gatherings are organised in a Covid-Responsible way. This means:

• Event plans and risk assessments should be in place and account for Covid infection.
• Include a contingency plan should key event personnel have Covid and are not able to attend/run the event
• Good venue hygiene in place
• Encourage handwashing
• Respect those that wish to wear face coverings when indoors. 

General advice from Governments

• Get vaccinated and get the booster dose
• When indoors, let fresh air in
• Meeting outdoors is safer
• Consider wearing a face covering when in crowded space

Mental health

We understand the impact social distancing restrictions have had on YFC members – especially as so many already live in isolated areas and rely on their weekly club meetings to socialise with others.

To help YFC members look after their mental wellbeing during these uncertain times, NFYFC created Take Time resources, sponsored by Tama. There are seven steps to follow with practical advice and tips to help you to take time away from the pressures you may be under. All of these resources are available online here. 

NFYFC has also relaunched the Rural+ training module for clubs, which has been developed with The Farming Community Network and The DPJ Foundation. The course is now available for YFCs to deliver online and in person through a YFC Trainer. Please contact your County to make arrangements. Find out more about Rural+ here. 

If you feel that you are having a mental health crisis, emergency or breakdown, you need to seek immediate expert advice and assessment. You can call your GP, ring the Samaritans on 116 123 or the Farming Help number on 03000 111 999. You can also follow the links under the ‘Urgent Help’ section here. 

The NHS also suggests viewing the Every Mind Matters website if you are having to self-isolate and are feeling lonely.