Britain’s bikesport federation, the ACU, has revealed its plan for the resumption of Youth Training & Practice in guidelines that apply to England and IOM only, as Wales, Scotland and Ireland have different Covid-19 plans. The ACU statement says:

We know that everyone is keen for the resumption of youth activity as soon as it is safe and appropriate for them to do so and following the publication of the latest government guidelines on exercise, the ACU are happy to announce that youth training and practice can resume in England and the IOM in line with current training and practice timelines. This decision is based on government guidelines detailing the use of public spaces, outdoor activity and exercise.

Training: Under the new social distancing guidelines, which allow up to, but no more than six people to gather, parents can take their children to a 1-1 coaching or training session, as long as the gathering does not exceed six people. Any sports coaches or trainers undertaking 1-1 sessions should ensure they are complying with relevant ACU guidance/advice and conduct a thorough risk assessment before engaging in any sessions. This should include particular consideration for under 18s and vulnerable adults.

Practice Events: The latest Government advice is that it is important children have as many chances to be as active as possible, so, youth participation can now be included in Practice Permits. With immediate effect, permit applications may be sent to the relevant Discipline Secretary to apply for a Practice Permit for practice events including youth to commence from 8th June. An updated Covid-19 Risk Assessment with guidance on youth practice will be produced for each discipline in due course and sent out by Race Secretaries.

It is important to say that any return to activity must take account of local conditions and any risk assessment for normal activities should be undertaken as well as ensuring that all government guidance around Covid-19 is taken into account.

Summary of dates:

Activity                                   Permit Application Date           Event Date

Coaching/Training                27th May 2020                          1st June 2020

Practice Events                     1st June 2020                            8th June 2020

The ACU will update Centres and Clubs in Scotland and Wales when Devolved Governments review their current guidelines