With COVID certification checks now being carried out at the Abbey Stadium, take a read of the below FAQ's...
- As there is no legal requirement to carry out COVID certification checks at the Abbey Stadium, why are you choosing to do so?
Following a meeting with Cambridge Public Health and the Safety Advisory Group, it was strongly recommended that the Club carries out COVID certification checks to help combat the high infection rates in the local area. It was decided that the responsible action would be to comply with the recommendations.
- What is classed as COVID certification?
The Club will accept proof of either double vaccination, a negative LFT or PCR test within the 72 hours prior to kick-off or a medical exemption as forms of COVID certification. Additionally, confirmation of a positive test within the last 6 months which has been followed by the appropriate period of isolation can be evidenced via the COVID pass or by text/email.
- How should I prove COVID certification?
The preferred proof of COVID certification is through the NHS COVID Pass via the NHS app. Supporters are asked to download the NHS app and have their COVID Pass ready to show before they go through the turnstiles.
- What can the NHS COVID Pass prove?
The COVID Pass can be generated on the NHS app if you have been fully vaccinated, you have returned a negative COVID test in the previous 72 hours or you have registered a medical exemption with the NHS.
- What if I don’t have phone signal at the stadium?
Supporters are asked to prepare for this eventuality by downloading an electronic copy of the pass to your smartphone. Alternatively, you can download and print a paper version and bring this to the stadium with you.
- What if I don't have a smartphone?
For supporters who don’t have a smartphone, a certificate can be obtained by ringing 119 between the hours of 7am and 11pm or a printed version of your NHS COVID pass can be used.
- If I am not vaccinated, can I attend the game?
Supporters who are not vaccinated can undertake a Lateral Flow Test or PCR Test within the 48 hours prior to kick-off and show proof of such when requested to do so.
- How can I get a Lateral Flow Test?
Lateral Flow Tests can be ordered for free from the Government website or from your local test centre or pharmacy.
- How do I prove a negative test?
Supporters should register their negative test result with the NHS. This can be done online or by calling 119 between the hours of 7am and 11pm. Once completed, you can register the result through the NHS app or by showing the text message and/or email that will have been sent to you.
- Will every supporter be checked?
No. Checks will be carried out periodically as supporters enter the ground, so all fans are advised to be in a position to prove their COVID certification in the event that they are requested to be checked.
- What happens if I am checked and can't prove COVID certification?
In this case, you will be refused entry to the Abbey Stadium.
- Will children be checked?
No. Only Adults (18 years+) will be required to show proof of COVID certification.
- What about supporters who don't have the internet and may not see the news regarding COVID certification?
If you know of a fellow supporter who doesn't use the internet and may not be aware of these recent developments, please play your part and make contact ahead of Matchday to inform them of the COVID certification requirement. It is vital that the wider U's fanbase plays a role in educating those who may need help.
- What time should I arrive at the stadium?
Additional checks for certification will likely add to the entry time to the stadium. Fans are requested to arrive earlier than usual to make allowances for the time required to complete any COVID certification checks.
- Will catering services still be available?
Yes - all catering outlets will be open as usual, apart from the Dion Dublin Bar which will be used as additional space for Hospitality Guests. Fans can enjoy a pre-match drink from the Abbey Arms.
- What other rules or guidance are supporters expected to follow?
Supporters are asked to:
- Follow the Supporter Code of Conduct
- Remember your face covering
- Wash your hands or use sanitiser regularly
- Be considerate of others and help to keep everyone safe
- Only occupy your designated seat
- Follow any instructions issued to you by stewards or other stadium staff
- How long will these additional checks be in-place for?
At the moment the checks are in place for the foreseeable future but will be reviewed on a regular basis.
