Coronavirus: advice and updates

An older lady wearing a facemask is getting a oovid vaccination from a female nurse

We continue to support the strong community response to the coronavirus and positive action that has sprung up to care for each other during the pandemic.

The government’s plan for living with Covid-19 has been published. The plan has removed the remaining legal domestic restrictions while continuing to protect people most vulnerable to Covid-19 and maintaining resilience. [updated 25 February]

Visit the Government’s coronavirus page for the latest guidance and updates specifically for the voluntary and community sector.

Find Covid-19 information for North Yorkshire residents and healthcare professionals on the North Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group website.

For a more local perspective on what’s happening in North Yorkshire, visit North Yorkshire County Council’s website.

You can find more information, advice and guidance in the expandable menus below.

This page will be updated regularly to reflect current advice so keep checking the sections below for the latest information.

Page updated 25 February 9.30am.

Vaccinations and testing

  • The roll-out of Covid-19 vaccinations is well underway.  For information on the vaccine, who is eligible and how it is given, view the NHS webpage.
  • A booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine is available for everyone aged 18 and over, and some people aged 16 and over, who have had 2 doses of the vaccine at least 3 months ago. Information on where to get your booster vaccination in North Yorkshire is available here.
  • There are some useful guides about the vaccine for older adults here.
  • There are some social media resources to encourage people to sign up for a GP, to enable them to be asked for a vaccination. These are available in a number of different languages here.
  • If you don’t have coronavirus symptoms, you can order free lateral flow tests to do at home.
  • If you have symptoms or have been told to isolate after contact with someone who has tested positive for coronavirus, you will need to get a PCR test.

Community response and volunteering

As ever, people should follow the guidance on how to stay safe and help prevent the spread of coronavirus (updated 14 December 2021) while volunteering outside the home, or COVID-secure guidance if in a workplace. While travelling to volunteer or while volunteering, people should follow safer travel guidance.

NCVO have updated their guidance (24 August 2021) to help you decide what steps you and your charity or voluntary organisation need to take in light of the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

Changes in guidance for people previously considered clinically extremely vulnerable people (updated 3 November 2021)

The shielding programme has now ended in England. This means that people who were previously considered clinically extremely vulnerable will not be advised to shield in the future or follow specific national guidance.

Volunteering in groups

For detailed guidance check the Government guidance on how volunteering can be done safely and effectively. This was updated on 13 December 2021.

How can I support my local community: please read our ‘how to’ guide for guidance on volunteering in your local community.

For further information on supporting volunteering:

For further support and information please contact our volunteer support team volunteersupport@communityfirstyorkshire.org.uk or 01904 704177.

Guidance for organisations, community groups and employers

Guidance for village halls and community buildings

[updated 01.03.22]

ACRE has issued new guidance for Community Buildings and Village halls detailing the considerations for halls following the easing of restrictions.