TCF Australia Policy Statement on Coronavirus

DEALING WITH CORONAVIRUS AT TCF

1. Purpose
2. Scope
3. Policy Statement
4. Implementation

 

1. Purpose: The Compassionate Friends values the health, safety and welfare of our members, volunteers, staff and anyone who comes into contact with us each day. The growing number of cases of the Coronavirus in Australia requires us to ensure that we have a considered and compassionate response so as to limit the impact of the virus.

 

2. Scope: This policy applies to all Board members, staff, volunteers, members and others with whom we may have contact with from time to time. It applies to all events and services provided by TCF in support of members and volunteers, irrespective of the location in which they are provided.

 

3. Policy Statement:
   1. The Compassionate Friends is committed to providing ongoing support to our members, while at the same time, minimising the risk of exposure to this or any other virus.
   2. As far as is reasonably possible, TCF will facilitate through its policies and procedures, strategies designed to reduce risks to its members, staff volunteers and to the general public.
   3. All people participating in TCF support activities or events, are to be made aware of this policy.
   4. All staff, volunteers, external contractors and visitors are also to be informed about the requirements of this policy.
   5. TCF will comply with all directions from authorised public health officers and recognised medical authorities in relation to this virus (or any other pandemic or epidemic).

 

4. Implementation:

In the event of an epidemic or pandemic, TCF will, as far as possible:

1. Assist our members, staff, volunteers and others, as relevant, to minimise their exposure to the illness concerned.
2. Encourage and assist those staff or volunteers who have reason to believe that they are at risk of contracting the Corona virus, to obtain a diagnosis.
3. Support employees, volunteers and members to take reasonable precautions to prevent infection or contagion.
4. Maintain its services and operations throughout the period of concern as far as it is practicable.

4.1  Requirements for Each TCF Chapter:

1. Ensure that all staff, volunteers, members and visitors are aware of the requirements of this policy.
   1. Publish a copy of the policy of their website and Facebook page, so that people are aware of the steps TCF are taking to control the risk.
2. Distribute alcohol-based handwash to each support group immediately.
3. Ensure that members, staff or volunteers who are ill or report that they are have the virus/likely to be contagious, stay at home.
4. Encourage a calm and compassionate environment. It may be that specific support groups and or activities, may need to be postponed.
5. Reinforce the telephone support line service to members.
6. Monitor the Government Health Authorities in their state, for up to date and informed news.

4.2  General Requirements of Members, Volunteers, Staff and Visitors:

1. Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
2. Maintain at least 1.5 metre distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, or shaking hands with others.
4. Make sure you follow good hygiene and, encourage others to do the same. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze and, disposing of used tissues immediately.
5. Stay home if you feel unwell.
6. If you are or are likely to be contagious, inform TCF as soon as possible.
   1. You will also be required to stay at home.
7. Seek medical advice promptly and follow the directions of your local health authority.
8. Regularly check our website and Facebook page for up to date information.
9. Stay calm, stay informed, be careful and be alert.
10. Seek medical advice promptly and follow the directions of your local health authority.

 

17 March 2020