Update on coronavirus

Dear Members

Mick McLaughlin

I am sure you will all have been shocked at the tragic death of Mick McLaughlin two weeks ago. A lively bubbly well respected member of the club who will be sadly missed. The club is in contact with the family but there is no information about funeral arrangements at present. If it is possible for the club to be represented at the funeral we will. A number of club members have suggested we look at first aid and the siting of a defibulator at the clubhouse and this will be discussed at a future date when the full committee is able to meet.

Committee

Due to current social distancing the full committee has not been able to meet in person since February. All decisions about racing and club closure have been discussed through email and made collectively. The club is following guidance from the RYA on appropriate next steps and the first measure suggested was to establish a smaller “COVID” sub-committee to address challenges we face in opening the club, sailing safely and gradually moving towards full racing once more. The full committee agreed to this approach and the sub committee made up of Kevin, Nick, Sue Tony and Yvonne has been agreed and met for the first-time last week through a video zoom call. The following recommendations were agreed

1. The clubhouse remains closed at present and all formal racing continues to be suspended.
2. Social sailing is permitted but members must follow any changes to government guidelines and ensure appropriate social distancing takes place.
3. Whilst individual sailing has always been part of the club at members own risk the attached guidance has been produced as a reminder. The RYA is clear that social sailing is to be encouraged but sailors need to be conservative in their approach and decision making.
4. The committee have identified the following phases as a roadmap to return to full club activities.

i. Total lockdown of Clubhouse & no sailing.
ii. Social Sailing encouraged as individuals (where we are at present).
iii. Beginning to open the Clubhouse & facilities.
iv. Gradual return to full Club activities.

5. The sub-committee will begin to investigate how some club facilities such as toilet access might be possible as the next stage.
6. All decisions will be made in light of Government requirements and RYA guidelines.

Thank You

The committee wishes to thank everyone for their patience during these difficult times and peoples conduct around the boat yard in respecting social distancing. There have been a number of occasions when the clubhouse has been accessed. Can we ask that people follow the information and rules that are published, they are to keep everyone safe. Continue to check the club website and forum for updates that we will try to provide monthly.

Thank you for your support and stay safe

Shanklin Sailing Club Sub Committee 1/6/20