Dear B4SH Volunteers
Broadband for Surrey Hills would like to update you on our position in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Our priority is the health and well-being of our volunteers, plus anyone you come into contact with. We will continue to support all our volunteers in the best way we can.
As a telecommunications provider, we have been identified as Key Workers (please reference the section headed “Utilities, communication and financial services”). Our volunteers will be issued with letters stating that they are Key Workers (please contact the office for a personalised letter). As a result, we will not be closing but will continue to carry out works with the utmost care and observing the latest advice. If guidelines change, we will reissue our advice to ensure we are compliant, as the situation changes.
OUR ROLE
Priority One:
As a priority, B4SH is committed to maintaining, repairing and monitoring our installed network infrastructure. This includes dealing with any faults and customer enquiries.
We are monitoring power in our cabinets and in the event of power outages we switch over to battery power.
We have capacity within our core network to handle any new unprecedented traffic loading.
Faults will be dealt with remotely but if necessary we will attend faults and issues alone. We will assess on a case by case basis.
Priority Two:
We are committed to extending our network to as many new customers as possible during this period. We are aware of the strain that both working and studying from home is having on existing infrastructures, so we aim to be as creative as possible whilst maintaining quality and high standards, within the Government guidelines.
Where possible we will work with property owners to deploy DIY installation which we will discuss with you on a case by case basis. We can use methods such as telephone guidance or self-installation inside the property, with our team installing outside the property.
The Executive Team is also continuing to work remotely from home doing network design and planning. Potential subscribers should continue to contact us through our website.
The whole team continues to be available by phone and email.
YOUR ROLE
We understand and appreciate that currently there are more pressing matters than the installation of new B4SH services, so it is paramount that the well-being of yourself and your household is considered above all. However, if you are able and willing to continue working towards the installation of our now evermore important broadband service in your communities, I urge you to follow these guidelines:
- DO NOT arrange group meetings or working parties. We are adopting a policy of a maximum of 3 people at any one site, with 2m rule to be used at all times and hand washing as frequently as possible – certainly on returning home.
- DO communicate by email, social media or phone
- DO NOT enter any customer premises to discuss installations, way-leaves, or carry out any installations.
- DO talk customers through DIY installations over the phone or by video link.
- DO discuss wayleaves or other matters by phone, email or video link.
Above all, FOLLOW GOVERNMENT GUIDELINES (see link) AT ALL TIMES.
Keep in touch, the office is still open and we are happy to talk or exchange emails.
Our contact number is: 07437 165949
Email: enquiries@b4sh.org.uk
Website: www.b4sh.org.uk
Facebook: @gigupanddown
If you would like to discuss how to get service rolled out to your area, we are happy to offer advice. With so many in the Surrey Hills struggling to meet the needs of everyone trying to both work and study at home, it’s a good time to review needs and gather local interest.
We are hugely grateful to our volunteers who continue to turn out and install this important communications service. We couldn’t do this without your support. Thank you.
Kindest Regards
The B4SH Executive Team
