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Indian Covid-19 Variant

If you’re in an area where the new Covid-19 variant is spreading

Given the recent increase in new variants of Covid-19 across a number of Local Authority areas, we urge all CBs and clubs to be especially vigilant and to encourage members to take extra caution to ensure the safety of all participants.

Government’s current guidance is that you can continue to travel to and from the eight geographic areas to play rugby and train (adapted laws, Stage D2), as long as all on-field and off-field Covid19 guidance is followed.

However, government will continue to monitor the spread of the new variant and therefore this guidance remains subject to change. Please keep an eye out for updates.

As each area may have a slightly different position, we encourage clubs to contact their Local Authority to understand the implications of any further local restrictions.

Government guidance for the listed areas includes that you should try to:

• Meet outside rather than inside
• Keep two metres apart from people you don’t live with

It is also recommended you:

• Get tested for Covid-19 twice a week and isolate if you test positive. Lateral flow tests are available for free from chemists or via the NHS online
• Get vaccinated when you are offered it; and encourage others to do so as well

Affected areas

• Bedford Borough Council
• Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
• Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council
• Burnley Borough Council
• Kirklees Council
• Leicester City Council
• London Borough of Hounslow
• North Tyneside Council

Government Guidance
Helpdesk FAQs

Stage D2 reminder

For other areas of the country, please remind club members and spectators to adhere to all relevant government Covid-19 guidance at all times.

We are all in this together and must show that we, as a sport, respect the rules. The protocols around spectators and gatherings are in place to protect people. Following the rules will enable us to keep playing and supporting, and, more importantly, it will keep everyone safe.

Summer Guidance

We are heading into the final weekend of the age-grade season. Please remember that from 31 May, the summer rugby activity framework must be followed by any clubs and schools continuing rugby. Material to help you can be found below.

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