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UK Churches told to prepare �?flu friends’ networks in case of pandemic

The UK Health Protection Agency has said that the number of UK cases of swine flu confirmed this week, has taken the total to 39. In response the Evangelical Alliance is calling on churches across the UK to prepare to set up networks of �?flu friends’ to care for the sick in case of a swine flu pandemic, following Government guidance for faith communities, reports Peter Wooding, special to ASSIST News Service.

“Such �?flu friends’ could visit the sick, collect medication and food, help with childcare and generally provide care,” said Dr Justin Thacker, the Evangelical Alliance’s Head of Theology and a former medical doctor.

“Such provision will be particularly important for those who are socially isolated or vulnerable. Specifically, churches could make it possible for vulnerable people to register with them, so that church members can provide help and support if swine flu spreads.

“The church is uniquely placed to provide such a service for the whole community, whether Christian or not.”

He encouraged church representatives to contact their local health practice to ask how they can best partner with them to provide help for those hit by a pandemic.

The Alliance’s response to the guidance passes on advice on how to avoid cross-infection in churches, including providing adequate hand washing facilities.

“We are thankful that swine flu has not claimed any lives in the UK, and are pleased that the Government does not see any need to close religious gatherings in the same way as some schools have been closed,” said Dr Thacker.

“But it is wise to start thinking about how churches might respond if the situation does get worse, and not just in terms of taking sensible measures to reduce the spread of infection.

“Our primary role as evangelical churches is not to protect ourselves but to serve our communities and demonstrate the love of Christ to them.”

Meanwhile the Methodist Church has circulated guidance among church leaders on swine flu in the UK.

The General Secretary of the Methodist Church, the Rev Dr Martyn Atkins, has called on deacons, presbyters and other leaders in the Church to consider how they can minimize the risk of catching and spreading the virus.

The �?Swine Flu: Risks and Precautions’ document gives practical advice to people in the Church in some form of leadership role and provides details of the websites and help lines offering up-to-date advice.

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TAGS: United Kingdom �?flu friends’ networks swine flu pandemic Rev Dr Martyn Atkins

[05/11/2009]

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