COVID-19: Guidance for Faith Communities & Places of Worship

Faith communities and places of worship are at the centre of community life and have a central role both in guiding their members towards behaviour change, and provision of spiritual and pastoral and practical support to those in need. Faith communities and faith leaders will continue to have that central role, but it is very important to adapt the way of working to ensure that people are safe and protected, and rapidly adjust their ways of meeting and worship in accordance with the national guidelines and stage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This guidance will support faith leaders in:

• Protecting their staff and congregations
• Providing accurate information
• Developing continuity plans
• Connecting and caring for their communities
• Providing psychosocial support to families and the wider community
• Providing spiritual nurture