Dear Guests and Supporters,
As a result of the recent Scottish Government announcement concerning moving many local authorities tier category to level 4, Wiston Lodge is within South Lanarkshire and is therefore affected.
The new tier system has been put in place to reduce the hazard COVID-19 presents to our society. Wiston Lodge as an education establishment, by the letter of the law, would be allowed to remain open through this period, given the additional health and safety measures that have been established throughout the house and grounds. I feel strongly that this would push against the spirit of these new measures and have therefore taken the decision to close the facility to all guests planning to visit through this period.
I apologise to any group that had intended to visit Wiston Lodge in the coming weeks, but hope you can appreciate the sentiment behind this decision. At our core remains the value to support our communities regardless of the economic implications. Please contact our office where we can either postpone your visit or refund your booking.
Many of our staff have been furloughed, with remaining staff engaged with the programmes and bookings working remotely, supporting as many groups as we can. There will remain a skeletal staff to ensure the maintenance and security of the estate. We will be open to enquiries and support to all of our valued guest and friends, and would encourage you to remain open to conversation through the normal channels. The major difference being that we ask friends and guests not to visit Wiston Lodge house and grounds through the duration of tier 4 restrictions. Our responsibilities to those staff remaining on site remain.
Wiston Lodge remains true to its mission statement of:
Wiston Lodge was established to provide a residential experience in a safe rural environment offering people, especially the young and those who are vulnerable or at risk, the time and space to explore themselves and their abilities.
We shall continue to do so when our rural environment becomes a safer one.
Many thanks for you continued support,
Jonny Sutherland
Managing Director