In keeping with the prescription by the President of South Africa regarding the measures to manage the COVID-19 virus threat, all SSVP Councils are requested to cancel all meetings. These measures will continue until the end of April 2020 – and may be extended if necessary – in order to minimise any risk to our members, volunteers and partners/stakeholders.
Engage electronically
Should you be faced with the need for an emergency meeting, please restrict the numbers to fewer than 10 persons, with specific attention to the prescribed preventative guidelines for COVID-19. Rather engage electronically wherever possible. Use video conferencing, whatsapp, whatsapp calling, telegram, etc for your Conference meetings. Any intervention is totally discouraged; if conducted, it shall be at your own risk.
In all charitable activities, please take precautions to avoid contagion. Practice hand hygiene before and after each contact, and social distancing (at least, one metre), as recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
As we serve the needy and marginalised, each conference must, on a provisional basis, ascertain the frequency of home visits and other visits, provide that the service offered to those in need is not compromised. Other forms of contact may be adopted on a temporary basis.
Don’t take risks
None of us knows what the final outcome will be. But as members of the SSVP we have to believe that the World Health Organisation and scientists are making decisions based on sound judgement and morality. Put your health first. Don’t take any risks.
All matters and situations not covered are left to the discretion of the president of the conference or central council to work out, keeping in mind the safety and wellbeing of the members and the community. You are encouraged to familiarise yourself with the public education on the Covid–19 virus issued by the health department and the World Health Organisation, and to take the necessary precautions.
Be smart and take all the prescribed precautions.
GOD bless and let us Pray for all affected by this virus.
Peter Keshwar
National President of SSVP-South Africa