Resistfest 2021 Conference COVID protocol

As of mid-September the COVID death rate in the UK is second only to the USA and India according to the respected Johns Hopkins University statistics. Those statistics also show that although the numbers are falling from a peak in January, incidence remains high – in other words the chances of getting COVID in the UK remains relatively high by European and world standards.

The high level of new infections in the UK is partly due to the laissez faire approach of the UK government meaning that in the UK the much more transmissible Delta variant is making its way through the UK population, being responsible for example for so called “breakthrough” infections amongst those who have been double jabbed. 

The position of Resist and the venue owners in response to this situation is that it would be responsible to have a protocol for the conference by way of guidance so that everyone is as safe as can be, including those who may have existing but well managed health issues that make them vulnerable, or who have elderly or immuno-suppressed relatives.  Accordingly in line with a risk assessment carried out by the venue owners and Resist, the COVID guidelines for the conference will be as follows;

1. We strongly recommend that everyone wears a mask inside the conference venue, particularly where social distancing is not possible. Should you choose to avail yourself of one, masks will be available at the venue entrance. This recommendation obviously will not apply to people sitting at a table eating, or when speaking from a platform.
2. Hand gel will be provided at various points for people to use – please do so.
3. It is suggested that people observe social distancing of around four feet wherever possible – conference seating arrangements will reflect this as far as practically possible, and ventilation of the venue by venue staff aimed at optimising airflow, will seek to achieve a balance between safety and physical comfort.
4. Finally, attendees are requested to comply with any reasonable directive from authorised conference personnel, aimed at ensuring compliance with this protocol 

Your co-operation with this protocol would be greatly appreciated as we do not want the conference to be a vector for onward transmission of the virus. If you feel unwell before attending the conference and think you may have COVID, we would respectfully request that you remain at home and follow proceedings online.