Our response to Covid-19 this winter
We all know that Covid-19 and other illnesses are less of a risk outdoors.
This winter, we hope our nature reserves will be places where everyone feels safe and comfortable to visit, enjoy, work and volunteer. We are following the progress of the Omicron variant and government guidance closely - we will update this page with our latest measures to keep our visitors, staff and volunteers safe.
See the latest government guidance
There are personal choices which can help reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus. Please be considerate to other visitors and continue to be cautious when visiting our reserves and visitor centres.
If you are planning to visit our reserves;
✅ Our nature reserves are open - but please stay at home if you feel unwell and get a test if you have symptoms of COVID-19. Be considerate of other visitors and keep a safe distance where possible, wash your hands frequently and wear a face mask where asked.
✅ Face masks - from Tuesday 30th November 2021, face masks will be compulsory in our visitor centres at Potteric Carr and Spurn Discovery Centre, unless you are exempt.
✅ Events are happening across our region in line with government guidance. Dates and details are on our events page and we have additional hand sanitising and test and trace measures in place. Please do not attend if you feel unwell.
✅ Our hides are open. Please be aware of other visitors in the hide - we recommend that you wear a face mask if it is busy.
✅ Most of our volunteering roles and opportunities have restarted and are now expanding to provide even more inspiring and exciting ways for you to get involved.
❌ The Living Seas Centre remains closed throughout 2021.
Thank you, as always, for your support and patience. Stay safe, Yorkshire.
Visitor centres
Our visitor centres are open and we are following the latest Government guidance regarding measures to restrict the spread of Covid-19. You can always find the latest information on the visitor centre pages below.
Keeping safe on our nature reserves
Help to keep our nature reserves safe for visitors, wildlife and our staff:
- Follow any signage on site
- Stick to the paths and trails, and check if dogs are welcome or need to be on a lead
- Take your litter home
- No fires, BBQs or fireworks - these can scorch the reserve and quickly get out of control
(c) Tom Marshall
Test and Trace
The Government recommends using the NHS COVID-19 app for Test and Trace which you can download in advance.
If you cannot/do not want to use this app then we will record your contact information on pen and paper, which will be stored securely.
Risk assessment
We have developed a coronavirus (COVID-19) risk assessment and put in place measures to help protect our personnel, visitors, contractors and the communities within which we work. View our risk assessment.
