Scottish athletics sketches a plan for a return

The document, available to download on the governing body’s website, sketches out some of the steps which may be required for this to happen in what is expected will be a phased return.

scottishathletics stressed that this is not a definitive plan but a framework document that it hopes gives athletes, coaches, clubs, officials and volunteers some kind of picture for the moves out of lockdown and other restrictions.

Chief executive Mark Munro has emailed all clubs with a copy of the document.

“Scottish Government documents and advice, as well as examining approaches by other countries, have enabled scottishathletics to outline an approach with principles that will guide the sport’s decision making about transitioning out of the current lockdown arrangements,’ said Mr Munro. “The ‘Exit Plan Framework’ identifies potential key advice and factors relevant to the sport and provides an early indication of what this may mean for a return to athletics.

“It is really important to understand that, at the moment, the framework sets out potential advice and anticipated actions rather than a definitive plan, and any analysis of this should not be seen a definitive prediction of the future.

“A degree of flexibility will need to be demonstrated.

“Also, the framework should not be taken as confirmation that significant changes to restrictions are imminent.

“The Scottish Government has noted the need for ‘lead-in’ time to any changes to give organisations the opportunity to prepare and has indicated that it intends to publish further updates ahead of the next end-of-cycle review date on 28 May.

“If and when, the Scottish Government approach changes, our framework will also adapt and change accordingly.

“We hope that the framework enables all sections of our membership and partners to consider the current picture, begin to plan ahead, and have a clearer understanding of the steps and actions that scottishathletics may take as the lockdown is eased.