News and events COVID-19 information & resources COVID-19 information and resources Neighbourhood Houses Victoria is committed to supporting and keeping its members up to date in responding to the coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19). On this page: Latest directions for neighbourhood houses Relevant information and resources Translated resources Online training Mental health resources We are here for you Latest directions for both Metro and Regional Victoria Neighbourhood houses can open for all purposes with a COVID Safe Plan in place. Indoor capacity: There is no longer a person cap in place. If you are using electronic record keeping, you can have as many people as the density quotient of 1 per 2sqm allows. If not using electronic record keeping, a density quotient of 1 per 4sqm applies. Record keeping: The State Government has introduced a QR Code Service as a free option for Victorian businesses and venues. For participants who do not use a smart phone, a manual alternative must be available to record their details. Houses are responsible for obtaining records for all who visit their premises, including when the premises are being hired by a third party. Find out more about record keeping. Signage, cleaning, and physical distancing and must be applied for all activities. Hand sanitiser made up of over 60 per cent alcohol should be readily available at the entrance and other high use areas. Mask wearing is required indoors (this includes for staff, volunteers and participants). If your neighbourhood house runs community transport, here are directions for ride-share vehicles. The COVID-19 Guidance for Neighbourhood Houses is still largely current for planning and transmission risk assessment purposes. A person is not permitted to enter a neighbourhood house if: they are feeling unwell they have been potentially exposed to the virus and have not yet been tested they have been tested but are still awaiting their test result Find out more The latest directions can always be found on the coronavirus restriction levels page and the department’s roadmap for community services can be found on the community services coronavirus page. Information and resources for reopening DHHS - Coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance for the Victorian neighbourhood house sector This guidance supplements the COVID-19 Plan for the Victorian Neighbourhood House Sector released in April 2020, to continue to provide advice in support of an ongoing coordinated approach to delivering services as Victoria cautiously eases restrictions. COVID Safe Plan All neighbourhood houses across Victoria which are operating on-site must have completed a COVID Safe Plan. Signs, posters and templates for your workplace A collection of templates, questionnaires, signage and posters to promote a COVIDSafe workplace. Cleaning and disinfection Workplaces need to clean and disinfect surfaces - both steps are essential. High touch surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected regularly, at least twice daily. Confirmed case in the workplace Information and advice for businesses who have a confirmed case of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the workplace. Employers must notify WorkSafe of COVID-19 cases Timely notification of potential workplace transmission of coronavirus (COVID 19) is critical for effective management of related health and safety risks and the prompt investigation of potential breaches of employer duties. Face masks in the workplace Information for employers about the mandatory wearing of face masks. Record keeping requirements To support contact tracing, organisations must keep a record of people who attend their premises for 28 days. Signage templates Prepared by Neighbourhood Houses Victoria. Simple instructional signage which you can edit and print to your needs. This document will open in Microsoft Word. Logistics checklist for reinstating in person activities Prepared by the CHAOS Network. This is a brainstorm of planning and practical considerations as houses move towards reopening. This document will open in Microsoft Word. Factsheet - What if our organisation becomes a site linked to COVID-19 infection? Prepared by the CHANH Network. Despite the easing of restrictions, COVID-19 is still present in the Victorian community so there is a risk that your neighbourhood house could become a site linked to coronavirus infection. It is important to take all the necessary precautions and manage community perception before and after a potential COVID-19 incident. Safe Work Australia - COVID-19 workplace tool kit Includes a range of resources for organisations to download and display in their workplaces, including checklists, infographics, fact sheets for industry and posters on handwashing, hygiene and physical distancing. Volunteering Victoria - Leading people during Covid-19 Resources include Re-starting Your Volunteer Program and the Welcoming Volunteers Back Safely Checklist. VMIA - Community Service Organisations Program All NHCP-funded neighbourhood houses receive this coverage. Find out what is and isn't covered. Justice Connect - Covid-19 response Justice Connect has created a range of initiatives to provide legal help to community organisations affected by the pandemic. This includes free resources and webinars on issues not-for-profits are facing, including managing contractual obligations, holding meetings and navigating employment challenges. Posters Wash your hands regularly posters Cover your cough and sneeze posters Slowing the spread of coronavirus posters Translated resources Federal translated resources State translated resources SBS - news and information in 63 languages Online training Department of Health - COVID-19 infection control training Once you register, a list of courses will appear. We recommend you only complete the course titled 'Infection Control Training - COVID 19'. Mental health resources Beyond Blue - Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service Regularly updated with information, advice and strategies to help you manage your wellbeing and mental health during this time. DHHS - mental health resources Includes links for where to get help. World Health Organisation - Mental health and psychosocial considerations during the COVID-19 outbreak Messages targeting different groups to support mental and psychosocial wellbeing during COVID-19 outbreak. We are here for you While the NHVic Office is closed with staff working remotely from home, we continue to be here for our members during this period. Our main number (03) 9602 1228 is being redirected to the mobile number of a staff member if you want to have a chat. Our main email inbox continues to be monitored at [email protected] if you want to send us updates or forward on useful information. We are also keeping our members updated directly via our e-bulletins, online sessions via Zoom, and our private Member's Facebook Group. This group is specifically for neighbourhood house managers, staff and committee members to stay connected with the sector, seek advice, discuss response measures, and receive the latest information. We also have three other targeted groups which may be relevant to you: Finance, Childcare and Adult Community Education Providers.