Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care what guidance he has issued to (a) schools, (b) community groups, (c) faith organisations and (d) other organisations that attract public congregation on the spread of covid-19.

The Government has made several announcements regarding social distancing to be implemented across all areas raised in this question that will help reduce the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19). More information on social distancing can be found at the following link:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-on-social-distancing-and-for-vulnerable-people/guidance-on-social-distancing-for-everyone-in-the-uk-and-protecting-older-people-and-vulnerable-adults

Additional advice on school and business closures can be found at the following links:

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-regulations-created-by-secretary-of-state-for-business-closure-covid-19

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-school-closures/guidance-for-schools-about-temporarily-closing

On 23 March the Prime Minister announced new measures to lock down the United Kingdom for a minimum of three week, stating that places of worship were among the premises that had to close immediately, along with libraries, playgrounds, most shops, and outdoor gyms. People should stay at home, except to shop for basic necessities, take exercise, address medical needs, and travel to and from essential work. More information can be found at the following link:

https://www.government-online.net/the-prime-minister-announces-new-measures-to-lock-down-the-country/

Specific guidance or information for faith groups is not held centrally. However, The Church of England have released their own advice. More information can be found at the following link::

https://www.churchofengland.org/more/media-centre/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-churches