Well, it’s certainly been an eventful few weeks. As is the case for most organisations, COVID-19 has had a big impact for us so we wanted to update you on the steps we are taking to protect ourselves, our loved ones, our partners, our Community Reporters and everyone else we would normally come into contact with.

• We have been practicing social distancing measures since early on in this outbreak. The PVM team works flexibly and largely works from home anyway, but in line with Government advice our office is currently closed, so if you need to reach any of us, email is the best way.
• All face-to-face work on projects has ceased. Where possible, training is being delivered (and meetings are being attended) remotely. Where this isn’t possible, work has been postponed temporarily. If you are unsure how this affects something you were due to take part in, please get in touch with us.
• We are keeping a close eye on our schedule and reviewing upcoming events to decide whether they need to be postponed, cancelled or held remotely.
• As you can imagine, some of our team have been affected by school and nursery closures, as well as other household members now working from home so we’re taking flexible working to the extreme. This may mean you get emails from us early in the morning or late at night. Please remember that we respect your own work schedule and don’t expect a response until you are working yourself. Let’s not pile more stress on ourselves at such a difficult time.

Please bear with us during this time as we get to grips with this new reality along with everyone else.

In the meantime, we’re sending our thanks to the amazing health and social care workers, retail workers, delivery drivers and all of the other essential workers who are getting us through this. You have our gratitude.

We’re also sending our best wishes to you and your loved ones, that you all get through this safely and healthily. And, of course, that we can all see each other very soon.