Karen Daker

This week’s news from around the Council. 

• COVID-19 update

The four-week national restrictions lockdown in England continues and South Staffordshire is still experiencing high levels of coronavirus cases in the district. Please stay at home and protect yourself and your loved ones. It’s important that if you have symptoms you self-isolate and get tested. COVID-19 testing is taking place in various locations throughout the district – please keep an eye on social media and the Council website for the latest information.

National restrictions apply until Wednesday 2 December 2020 and information about the lockdown measures can be found here.

Remember – you may only leave your home for a limited set of reasons.

• For work which cannot be done from home.
• For education.
• For exercise outdoors or to visit an outdoor public place. This can be on your own or with members of your household or support bubble. Unlike the last lockdown in March, you can take unlimited exercise.
• For medical reasons.
• To shop for food and essentials.
• To visit members of your support bubble or to provide care for vulnerable people, or as a volunteer.

You must not meet socially indoors or in private gardens with family or friends unless they are part of your household or support bubble. However, individuals may meet one other person from another household outside in an outdoor public place such as a park or playground. Children under school age, as well as those dependent on round-the-clock care, such as those with severe disabilities, who are with their parents will not count towards the limit on two people meeting outside.

Clinically vulnerable people are asked to be especially careful but people are not being asked to resume shielding (guidance for clinically vulnerable) and children can move between homes if their parents are separated.

• Other useful COVID-19 links
• Information about face coverings.
• Information about meeting others safely.

• Information about what you can and can’t do.
• Information about NHS test and trace.
• Information about the NHS COVID-19 app.

• Enforcement news

Last week, a South Staffordshire pub – The Red, White and Blue public house in Featherstone – was issued with a prohibition notice by South Staffordshire Council after police officers visited the premises following a tip off that people were inside drinking. Click here to read more. Also last week, the Himley Country Hotel, School Road, Himley, on the outskirts of Dudley, was ordered to close by Staffordshire County Council for coronavirus regulation breaches deemed to pose an imminent threat to public health. Click here to read more.

• COVID-19 Support Officers

The first COVID-19 Support Officers started work this week and they will focus on high risk areas, including around schools, to ensure local villages within South Staffordshire are COVID-secure. Whilst they themselves do not have any enforcement powers, they will be helping to remind people and businesses about the importance of ‘Hands, Face, Space’ and the need to wear face coverings, wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser, and to maintain a safe social distance. These measures are vital to ensure people feel safe and to slow the spread of coronavirus in the district.

• COVID-19 business update

During this national lockdown, pubs, restaurants, gyms and non-essential shops have had to close. Understandably, many businesses are concerned about this second national lockdown. If your business has been required to close or has been severely impacted by the new restrictions in place from 5 November to 2 December 2020 you will be able to apply for a new grant scheme to assist businesses financially.

The grants are now live and are known as the discretionary Additional Restrictions Grant and the Local Restrictions Support Grant. Eligible businesses can apply for the Local Restrictions Support Grant (for closed businesses) at this website – https://www.grantapproval.co.uk/

More information is available on the Council website here. Information about the Local Restrictions Support Grant (for open businesses) and the Additional Restrictions Grant will be added shortly.

National guidance:

Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Additional Restrictions Grant here.

Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant (for open businesses) here.

Check if you’re eligible for the coronavirus Local Restrictions Support Grant (for closed businesses) here.

Find out more about the financial help for businesses during COVID-19 here.

If you wish to subscribe to direct emails from the Council regarding business advice and support, please email your name, business trading name and phone number to businesshub@sstaffs.gov.uk

For the latest updates about council services, guidance and support, visit:

www.sstaffs.gov.uk or sign up to receive regular eAlert updates at

https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/myaccount 

• Business webinar coming up

In partnership with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, South Staffordshire Council is holding a free business webinar on Zoom in December.

• Funding – What is new and how can you access it?

Tuesday 1 December 2020, 2pm to 3pm.

Click here to register.

• NHS test and trace support payments

Applications for NHS Test and Trace support payments are open. People who have been told by NHS Test and Trace to self- isolate who on low incomes and unable to work from home can claim a support payment of £500 to compensate for their loss of earnings if they meet certain criteria. Local authorities are administering the payments for self-isolation and residents in South Staffordshire are now able to submit an application for this support and the application form is now live.

• Supporting those in need

The Council has a variety of support mechanisms in place to help residents and this week, the Customer Services team at the Council has been busy contacting high risk (clinically extremely vulnerable) residents. This has included arranging food delivery slots and transport to medical appointments as well as talking to residents who have been isolating for some time. Well done to the team, who have received a number of compliments from residents thanking them for calling and for all their help. If you need help or someone to talk to, please call 01902 696000. Although people are not being asked to resume shielding, clinically vulnerable people are asked to be especially careful – you can view the updated guidance for clinically vulnerable here.

• Leisure Services

• NEW – online exercise classes now available

This week, the Council’s four leisure centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne launched their online exercise classes. As a thank you for their ongoing support, all leisure centre members have been given free access to the online exercise classes until the end of the year. In order to get started, you should have received an email with a unique URL link which you need to click on in order to register. Once you’ve registered, you can then access the online platform where you can book classes and manage your bookings. Here’s a short video on how to get started. If for any reason, you haven’t received an email containing your unique link, please email us at Leisure@sstaffs.gov.uk

Non-members can also take part in the online classes on a pay as you go basis for £4 per class. Click here to view the class timetable, book and pay for your classes. Alternatively, non-members can take out an online class membership for just £12 per month giving you unlimited access to 20 classes per week. To sign up, complete the membership form and direct debit form and email your forms to Leisure@sstaffs.gov.uk where we will activate your online membership.

• Baggeridge County Park – Both the park and play area remain open. However, a number of restrictions have been introduced. Please only visit the park on your own, with the people you live with or in your support bubble, or one person from another household. The car park is open but restricted to 100 cars at any one time and normal car parking charges apply. The children’s play area is open but restricted to 30 people at any one time. Play is limited to 30 minutes during busy times. Adults are encouraged to use the Test and Trace QR Code scanning and to wear a face mask when in the play area with their children. The tea shop is open (takeaway service only) and the toilets are open. Challenge Academy is closed.

• Vote for Baggeridge Country Park!

As a Green Flag winner, Baggeridge Country Park has been entered into the annual People’s Choice Award, where the public vote for their favourite park. Please consider voting for Baggeridge as your favourite Green Flag park – you can vote here. Voting closes on Wednesday 25 November 2020.

• Help Us, Help You – Accessing NHS Services

COVID-19 has changed the way that people are accessing NHS services and the NHS is here for your mental health, even during the pandemic. Services have remained open and you can still access care and professional advice for your mental health.

• COVID-19 and lockdown have impacted our mental health. You are not alone. If you are struggling with anxiety and depression, NHS Talking Therapies can help.
• NHS Talking Therapies are a free, effective and confidential way to treat common mental health issues. They can help you by working through feelings of anxiety or depression with a trained therapist.
• If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, please do come forward: it’s easy to get help. Ask your GP for a referral to NHS Talking Therapies, or you can self-refer and find out more about NHS Talking Therapies here.
• NHS Talking Therapies are conducted in confidence and help is available face to face, by phone or online. For those whose first language is not English, Talking Therapies can be delivered through multi-lingual therapists or through confidential translators.

Remember the five steps to 5 steps to mental wellbeing:

• Connect with other people.
• Be physically active.
• Learn new skills.
• Give to others.
• Pay attention to the present moment (mindfulness). 

• Alcohol Awareness Week, 16-22 November 2020

This week is Alcohol Awareness Week, an annual campaign coordinated by the charity Alcohol Change UK. This year’s theme is focusing on the issues around alcohol and mental health and the best way you can look after yourself and those you love during this year of great change and uncertainty. When things get tough, people can turn to alcohol to cope. But drinking too much and too often can make our mental health problems worse – such as anxiety and depression – and prevent them from being properly addressed. Being in control of our drinking can improve our mental health, and there are plenty of techniques out there for taking control if your drinking has got a bit out of hand.

One way is the free Try Dry app. Download the free Try Dry app here to help you meet your goals, whether you want to take on Dry January (or another dry challenge), cut down on your drinking, or go totally alcohol-free.

Another way is the Every Mind Matters ‘Your Mind Plan’, a digital tool that enables you to create a practical plan to maintain and improve your mental health. Over two million people have created mind plans so far to find out what personalised steps they can do to protect themselves and prevent problems escalating, just as we do with our physical health. Click here to download the mind plan.

For more information about Alcohol Awareness Week, visit:

www.alcoholchange.org.uk/alcoholawarenessweek

• Council job vacancies

• COVID-19 Support Officers – application information.

• Planning Officer (Grad/Assistant – Senior) – application information. Closing date 27 November 2020.
• Administrator (Environmental Health and Licensing), 12 month fixed term – application information. Closing date 27 November 2020.
• Customer Services General Advisor, fixed term until end August 2021 – application information. Closing date 27 November 2020.

• Next week’s Council Committee/Panel meetings
• Overview & Scrutiny Committee – Tuesday 24 November 2020 – 6.30pm – virtual meeting via Teams.

Members of the public can virtually attend this meeting via Microsoft Teams – a link can be found in the news section on the Council’s website at www.sstaffs.gov.uk. 

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

For the latest news on Covid-19, please follow this link to the Government website

Keep up to date with the latest news and how Covid-19 is affecting where you live or work bu following this link for Staffordshire County Council Coronavirus news

If you need assistance, please follow this line for details of the South Staffs Council Covid-19 hotline

16.11.20 – Staffordshire will be Tier 3 on 2nd December after Lockdown 2

18.11.20 – Latest Figures for the locality

03.11.2020 – 2nd Lockdown

For those struggling with their mental health, please seek help. (See numbers below)

22.10.2020 – Covid Testing 

13.10.2020 – Calls for Staffordshire Residents to Redouble Efforts after Prime Minister Confirms New Covid Tier System

Residents and businesses are being called on to redouble their efforts against Covid-19, after a new three tier system of Covid-19 restrictions was announced.

The three tiers of “medium, “high” and “very high” will see restrictions tighten with each tier.  Only the city of Liverpool is currently classed as “very high” with pubs, gyms and leisure centres closing from Wednesday. Staffordshire is in the “medium” tier.

Alan White, Staffordshire County Council’s Leader, said: “Covid-19 is tightening its grip everywhere, including in Staffordshire where cases are rising fast in parts of the county.

“We have worked hard as a county to protect the vulnerable and we continue to act swiftly to contain outbreaks to help reduce the risk to both lives and livelihoods.

“But the situation in Liverpool is a stark reminder of what could happen here if we don’t act now, so we are asking people of all ages to redouble their efforts to help keep Staffordshire safe.

“Complacency is Covid-19’s  biggest friend and the consequences of not sticking to the rules are now in our own hands.”

While Staffordshire as a whole remains below the national rate, Newcastle-under-Lyme is running at a rate of 146 per 100,000 population, above England’s rate of 141.1, the West Midlands rate of 109.8 and Staffordshire’s rate of 104.8.

This is in part due to an outbreak among Keele University students and staff, which has seen almost 70 people test positive in the last couple of weeks.

As Staffordshire is in the “medium” tier this means no extra county-wide guidance is in place. Local county council advice remains in force in parts of Burton only.

The national guidance for the Medium Tier includes:

Good hygiene and social distancing: Wash your hands regularly and keep your 2m distance

Meeting with friends and family:  Limit your contact. If you do need to meet up, limit this to no more than six from multiple households. There are exceptions, for example if your household or support bubble is larger than six

Going to work: You should work at home if possible

Education: Schools, nurseries and universities are open

Leisure: Pubs, bars and restaurants must close at 10pm

Face coverings: Must be worn in shops and on public transport

Test and Trace: You must stay in and book a test at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus if you have symptoms. If positive you must stay in for 10 days. Anybody who you have been in close contact with must self-isolate for 14 days.

Keep up to date with the latest news and how Covid-19 is affecting where you live or work at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/coronavirus

08.10.2020 – Testing in South Staffordshire to help curb rise in cases

People in South Staffordshire with symptoms of Covid-19 are being urged to step forward and get tested in a bid to help curb an increase in cases in the district.

The drive-through Mobile Testing Unit has been deployed in response to a rise in cases in the area and will be at South Staffordshire Council Building on Wolverhampton Road in Codsall.

Testing will take place today (Wednesday), Thursday and Friday of this week between 9-4pm. Booking is via the national portal at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus  or by phoning 119. Residents are urged not to turn up without an appointment.

Dr Johnny McMahon, Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing at Staffordshire County Council said: “There has been a high number of Covid-19 cases in South Staffordshire, so this testing has been put together to encourage as many people as possible with symptoms of Covid-19 to get a test.

“Testing helps us see how the virus is spreading and where people should be self-isolating to contain the virus.”

The county continues to work closely with South Staffordshire District Council, Public Health England and local communities in the call for people to follow national guidance carefully.

The guidance is to:

• Wash your hands regularly
• Limit your contact with people not in your household and keep to the “rule of six”
• Stay at home when you can. If you do need to go out keep your distance – 2m ideally
• Wear face coverings on public transport and in shops
• Self-isolate for ten days and book a test if you have symptoms

Self-isolate for 14 days if you have been contacted by the NHS Test & Trace Service and told you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive.

Introducing ‘Happy at Home’   –  A brand new campaign from Staffordshire County Council, designed to help our residents across the county lead healthier, independent and happier lives and to support them to be able to live well at home for longer.

Since summer a significant amount of work has been undertaken by Staffordshire County Council to update our Assistive Technology (AT) offer.

A new interactive online tool has launched this week as part of a countywide campaign to raise awareness about the massive range of simple and low-cost assistive technology equipment available to people who may be struggling with everyday tasks around the home.

You can explore the ‘Happy at Home Interactive House” at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/happyathome

• The interactive ‘Happy at Home’ house allows users to visually identify rooms and locations around the home where they may need some help with day to day tasks, and then be presented with a range of ideas and solutions that they can then easily compare and acquire.
• As well as the interactive house, the new online service includes a range of independent living gift ideas, a library of video demonstrations of assistive technology products, and an opportunity to compare a wide choice of solutions

How you can help

From November 2020 until January 2021, we will be running an online campaign to promote Assistive Technology to help people stay independent at home, and in the run up to Christmas we’ll be promoting buying Assistive Technology and Daily Living Equipment as a wonderful gift idea and linking this back to our Happy at Home webpages.

We would encourage you all to please interact with the campaign and retweet or re-post so that it reaches as many people as possible.

• Keep an eye out on social media for the #HappyAtHome hashtag
• We also have issued a press release here which you can share on your own websites, newsletters and networks.
• We also have a range of digital graphics, fact sheets, posters and other promotional resources available on request.

To request promotional materials please contact Russel Gethings by email russel.gethings@staffordshire.gov.uk

For more information about the campaign please contact Jonathan Topham jonathan.topham@staffordshire.gov.uk or Lee Owen lee.owen1@staffordshire.gov.uk

This week’s news from around the Council.

 Codsall Community Hub

Councillor Brian Edwards MBE, the Leader of South Staffordshire Council, was joined by representatives from Russell House Primary Care Practice, Codsall Library and Seddon at a ground breaking event to mark the start of construction work on the Community Hub, which is expected to open in early 2022. You can see a photograph and find out more here.

• Council introduces COVID-19 Support Officers

South Staffordshire Council is recruiting a number of COVID-19 Support Officers to provide guidance and advice to members of the public and local businesses where there are actual or potential breaches of COVID-secure regulations and guidance. The first COVID-19 Support Officers will start work next week and they will focus on high risk areas, including around schools, to ensure local villages within South Staffordshire are COVID-secure. Whilst they themselves do not have any enforcement powers, they will be helping to remind people and businesses about the importance of ‘Hands, Face, Space’ and the need to wear face coverings, wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser, and to maintain a safe social distance. These measures are vital to ensure people feel safe and to slow the spread of coronavirus in the district.

• Local hotel closed for coronavirus breaches and reports of anti-social behaviour

This week, the Himley Country Hotel, School Road, Himley, on the outskirts of Dudley was ordered to close by Staffordshire County Council for coronavirus regulation breaches deemed to pose an imminent threat to public health. The hotel has been ordered to close for 28 days until Thursday 10 December 2020. You can read more about this story here. The same hotel was also issued with a temporary closure notice by South Staffordshire Council and Staffordshire Police using the powers available to them within the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. You can read more about the story here. 

• Staffordshire to take part in mass roll out of rapid COVID-19 testing

Staffordshire is to increase testing of residents in a bid to identify more cases, reduce the spread of infection and protect lives and livelihoods. The county is one of a number of local authorities to sign up for the roll out of the rapid turnaround lateral flow tests – which can give results in under and hour, without the need for laboratory processing. You can read more about this story here. COVID-19 testing is taking place in various locations throughout the district – please keep an eye on social media and the Council website for the latest information.

• Construction work to commence on new extension for Telling Architectural

Following on from last week’s good news that construction work will recommence to complete the expansion of the Four Ashes Enterprise Park on Monday 16 November 2020, further positive news to report is that construction work will also begin on the same day for another of the Council’s commercial development projects, the extension of Unit 4e Station Road on the wider Four Ashes Industrial Estate.

Unit 4e is already the Council’s largest single commercial unit and is home to the Head Office of Telling Architectural, a multi-national cladding company. Telling has seen significant growth in the business since moving into Unit 4e when the Council acquired the unit in 2016. The extension will allow them to continue growing their business at the same location without needing to move elsewhere. The extension is due to be completed in April 2021 and it will add a further 1275 sqm to the property. It means Telling can employ up to a further 25 people and this is excellent news at a time when the wider economy is struggling with the coronavirus pandemic. 

• COVID-19 update

The four-week ‘national restrictions’ lockdown in England from Thursday 5 November 2020 to Wednesday 2 December 2020 continues and information about the lockdown measures can be found here at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-national-restrictions-from-5-november.

You may only leave your home for a limited set of reasons.

• For work which cannot be done from home.
• For education.
• For exercise outdoors or to visit an outdoor public place. This can be on your own or with members of your household or support bubble. Unlike the last lockdown in March, you can take unlimited exercise.
• For medical reasons.
• To shop for food and essentials.
• To visit members of your support bubble or to provide care for vulnerable people, or as a volunteer.

You must not meet socially indoors or in private gardens with family or friends unless they are part of your household or support bubble. However, individuals may meet one other person from another household outside in an outdoor public place such as a park or playground. Children under school age, as well as those dependent on round-the-clock care, such as those with severe disabilities, who are with their parents will not count towards the limit on two people meeting outside.

Clinically vulnerable people are asked to be especially careful but people are not being asked to resume shielding (guidance for clinically vulnerable) and children can move between homes if their parents are separated.

• COVID-19 business update

During this national lockdown, pubs, restaurants, gyms and non-essential shops have had to close. On Thursday 12 November 2020, the Business Secretary the Rt Hon Alok Sharma MP made a statement on the response to coronavirus and outlined levels of support for businesses and an update on the Kickstart Scheme and Vaccines Taskforce. Click here to view the statement.

Also yesterday, the Government published data showing the amount of funding that councils have received and distributed to support small and medium businesses in England during the coronavirus outbreak. This data covers three coronavirus grant schemes which closed in August 2020: the Small Business Grants Fund (SBGF), the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Business Grants Fund (RHLGF) and the Local Authority Discretionary Grants Fund (LADGF). 

Understandably, many businesses are concerned about the second national lockdown. If your business has been required to close or has been severely impacted by the new restrictions in place from 5 November to 2 December 2020 you will be able to apply for a new grant scheme to assist businesses financially. We are awaiting further clarification on the new scheme and this will be published on our website shortly, along with an application form for the new grant scheme. This information is in the process of being updated.

If you wish to subscribe to direct emails from the Council regarding business advice and support, please email your name, business trading name and phone number to businesshub@sstaffs.gov.uk

For the latest updates about council services, guidance and support, visit:

www.sstaffs.gov.uk or sign up to receive regular eAlert updates at

https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/myaccount

Other useful links:

• Information about face coverings.
• Information about meeting others safely.
• Information about what you can and can’t do.

• Information about NHS test and trace.
• Information about the NHS COVID-19 app. 

• Leisure update 

• Leisure Centres – The leisure centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne are now closed until the end of the national lockdown on Wednesday 2 December 2020. But take look online!

NEW – launch of online exercise classes

This week saw the launch of online live and on-demand exercise classes. As a thank you for their ongoing support this year, all members of the Council’s four leisure centres will receive free access to the online exercise classes until the end of the year. Members will receive a unique URL to access the online platform.

If you’re a non-member and would like to access the online exercise classes, you can access them here, and view the class timetable, book and pay for your classes. Non-members can access classes on a pay as you go basis at a cost of £4 per class. Or you can join as an online class member for just £12 per month. To join, simply complete the membership form and direct debit form and email your completed forms to Leisure@sstaffs.gov.uk

• Baggeridge County Park – Both the park and play area remain open. However, a number of restrictions have been introduced. Please only visit the park on your own, with the people you live with or in your support bubble, or one person from another household. The car park is open but restricted to 100 cars at any one time and normal car parking charges apply. The children’s play area is open but restricted to 30 people at any one time. Play is limited to 30 minutes during busy times. Adults are encouraged to use the Test and Trace QR Code scanning and to wear a face mask when in the play area with their children. The tea shop is open (takeaway service only) and the toilets are open. Challenge Academy is closed.

• Vote for Baggeridge Country Park!

Since 1998, Baggeridge Country Park has been awarded Green Flag status, an award that recognises well-managed parks and green spaces across the UK and around the world. As a Green Flag winner, the park has been entered into the annual People’s Choice Award, where the public vote for their favourite park. During this challenging time, the park has remained open, thanks to the tireless work of the rangers and volunteers. Please consider voting for Baggeridge Country Park as your favourite Green Flag park – you can vote here. Voting closes on Wednesday 25 November 2020.

• Business webinars coming up

In partnership with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, South Staffordshire Council is holding two free business webinars on Zoom in November.

• Bids and Tenders: The impacts of COVID-19.
  Tuesday 17 November 2020, 2pm to 3pm.

This webinar will focus on what businesses need to do to increase their chances of winning bids and tenders in a COVID and post-COVID business environment, concluding with some top tips to ensure you maximise your chances of winning new business.

Click here to register for Bid and Tenders. 

• Funding – What is new and how can you access it?

Tuesday 1 December 2020, 2pm to 3pm.

Click here to register for Funding – What is new ad dhow can you access it?.

• NHS test and trace support payments

Applications for NHS Test and Trace support payments are open. People who have been told by NHS Test and Trace to self- isolate who on low incomes and unable to work from home can claim a support payment of £500 to compensate for their loss of earnings if they meet certain criteria. Local authorities are administering the payments for self-isolation and residents in South Staffordshire are now able to submit an application for this support and the application form is now live.

• Reminder to dispose of fireworks safely

South Staffordshire Council and Walsall Council issued a reminder to residents not to dispose of unused fireworks in their recycling bins following a fire in a recycling collection vehicle last Monday on the A461 Lichfield Road, Walsall. The Biffa vehicle had just finished its rounds collecting recycling waste from households in South Staffordshire and was on its way to a materials recovery facility when the fireworks ignited and caught fire in the back of the vehicle during the journey. Click here to read more and click here to see some pictures. 

• Tree planting taking place at council cemeteries

South Staffordshire Council has been awarded 500 trees from the Woodland Trust through their free trees for schools and communities scheme. The tress will be planted over the coming weeks at Sytch Lane Cemetery in Wombourne and Strawberry Lane Cemetery in Great Wyrley.

The current COVID-19 restrictions have stopped our original plan to involve the wider community but the Council is working with local schools and groups from forest schools to set up planting events onsite. For more information, contact Ryan Taylor (r.taylor@sstaffs.gov.uk).

• Community safety – ditch the blade campaign

This week, Staffordshire Police is supporting a national week of crime prevention and education activity around knife crime. The #DitchTheBlade campaign encourages young people not to carry knives and to instead choose a different path for their lives, one without the risk of prison, serious injury or death. For more information on the campaign, or if you are worried about a child and think they are involved with knife crime visit:

www.staffordshire.police.uk/ditchtheblade

www.knifefree.co.uk

• Help prevent suicide

#TalkSuicide is a new campaign developed by Staffordshire County Council working in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent City Council, local hospitals and NHS community services. The campaign aims to bring individuals, organisations and businesses together to help prevent suicide in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. Find out more about the campaign here.

• Council job vacancies

• COVID-19 Support Officers – application information.

• Planning Officer (Grad/Assistant – Senior) – application information. Closing date 27 November 2020.
• Administrator (Environmental Health and Licensing), 12 month fixed term – application information. Closing date 27 November 2020.

• Next week’s Council Committee/Panel meetings
• Planning Committee – Tuesday 17 November 2020 – 6.30pm – virtual meeting via Teams.

Members of the public can virtually attend this meeting via Microsoft Teams – a link can be found in the news section on the Council’s website at www.sstaffs.gov.uk. 

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

This week’s news from around the Council.

• COVID-19 update

A second national lockdown for England is taking place from Thursday 5 November 2020 to Wednesday 2 December 2020. Information on the new national restrictions can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-national-restrictions-from-5-november. The new measures will apply nationally for four weeks up to Wednesday 2 December 2020, when it is hoped that the country will return to a regional approach, based on the latest data.

Click here to read a personal message from Councillor Brian Edwards MBE, Leader of South Staffordshire Council.

You may only leave your home for a limited set of reasons.

• For work which cannot be done from home.
• For education.
• For exercise outdoors or to visit an outdoor public place. This can be on your own or with members of your household or support bubble. Unlike the last lockdown in March, you can take unlimited exercise.
• For medical reasons.
• To shop for food and essentials.
• To visit members of your support bubble or to provide care for vulnerable people, or as a volunteer.

You must not meet socially indoors or in private gardens with family or friends unless they are part of your household or support bubble. However, individuals may meet one other person from another household outside in an outdoor public place such as a park or playground. Children under school age, as well as those dependent on round-the-clock care, such as those with severe disabilities, who are with their parents will not count towards the limit on two people meeting outside.

Clinically vulnerable people are asked to be especially careful but people are not being asked to resume shielding (guidance for clinically vulnerable) and children can move between homes if their parents are separated.

During this national lockdown, pubs, restaurants, gyms and non-essential shops will be closed but unlike the restrictions in spring, schools, colleges and universities can stay open.

Businesses and venues that must close include:

• All non-essential retail, including, but not limited to clothing and electronics stores, vehicle showrooms, travel agents, betting shops, auction houses, tailors, car washes, tobacco and vape shops.
• Indoor and outdoor leisure facilities such as bowling alleys, leisure centres and gyms, sports facilities including swimming pools, golf courses and driving ranges, dance studios, stables and riding centres, soft play facilities, climbing walls and climbing centres, archery and shooting ranges, water and theme parks.
• Entertainment venues such as theatres, concert halls, cinemas, museums and galleries, casinos, adult gaming centres and arcades, bingo halls, bowling alleys, concert halls, zoos and other animal attractions, botanical gardens.
• Hospitality venues like restaurants, bars and pubs. However, they can still provide takeaway and delivery services although takeaway of alcohol is not be allowed.
• Personal care facilities such as hair, beauty and nail salons, tattoo parlours, spas, massage parlours, body and skin piercing services, non-medical acupuncture, and tanning salons.

Businesses that can remain open include:

• Food shops, supermarkets, garden centres and certain other retailers providing essential goods and services. Although non-essential retail shops are closing once again, they can remain open for delivery to customers and click-and-collect shopping, where customers order products online and go to pick them up.
• Dentist, opticians, chiropractors and osteopaths and a number of public services including the NHS and medical services like GPs, Jobcentre Plus sites, Courts and Civil Registrations Offices.
• Construction sites and manufacturing workplaces.

Hotels, hostels and other accommodation should only open for those who have to travel for work purposes. Places of worship will be closed, unless they are being used for funerals, to broadcast acts of worship, individual prayer, formal childcare or where part of a school, essential voluntary and public services, such as blood donation or food banks, and some other exempted activities. Funerals can be attended by a maximum of 30 people and ceremonial events such as stone settings and ash scatterings can also continue with up to 15 people in attendance. Weddings, civil partnership ceremonies will not be permitted to take place except in exceptional circumstances.

For the latest updates about council services, guidance and support, visit:

www.sstaffs.gov.uk or sign up to receive regular eAlert updates at

https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/myaccount

Other useful links:

• Information about face coverings.
• Information about meeting others safely.
• Information about what you can and can’t do.
• Information about NHS test and trace.
• Information about the NHS COVID-19 app.

 COVID-19 testing

COVID-19 testing is taking place in various locations throughout the district – please keep an eye on social media and the Council website for the latest information.

• Leisure update 

• Leisure Centres – The leisure centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne are now closed until the end of the national lockdown on Wednesday 2 December 2020. Memberships are suspended and all payments are frozen so members do not have to do anything and do not need to cancel direct debits. During lockdown, please continue exercising, keeping active and staying healthy. Get outside, enjoy the fresh air and look after your mind and keep an eye on our Facebook pages for exercises and advice.  For more information, visit our website or subscribe to sstaffs.gov.uk/alerts.

• Baggeridge County Park – The lockdown guidance allows parks and play areas to stay open and Baggeridge County Park will remain open. However, a number of restrictions have been introduced. Please only visit the park on your own, with the people you live with or in your support bubble, or one person from another household. The car park is open but restricted to 100 cars at any one time and normal car parking charges apply. The children’s play area is open but restricted to 30 people at any one time. Play is limited to 30 minutes during busy times. Adults are encouraged to use the Test and Trace QR Code scanning and to wear a face mask when in the play area with their children. The tea shop is open (takeaway service only) and the toilets are open. Challenge Academy is closed.

• Vote for your favourite Green Flag park!

The annual Green Flag Award People’s Choice is now underway so please consider voting for Baggeridge Country Park as your favourite Green Flag park – you can vote here.

• UK terrorism threat level raised to “severe”

This week, the UK’s terrorism threat level was upgraded from “substantial” to “severe”. The move is precautionary and means security chiefs believe that an attack is highly likely but there is no specific intelligence of an imminent incident. The move follows the recent attacks in France and Vienna.

Please be vigilant when out and about in South Staffordshire. Here is some guidance about the terror threat as well as advice about what to do about suspicious packages and information about the ‘Let’s Talk About It’ initiative.

• Business webinars coming up

In partnership with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, South Staffordshire Council is holding two free business webinars on Zoom in November.

• Bids and Tenders: The impacts of COVID-19.
  Tuesday 17 November 2020, 2pm to 3pm.

This webinar will focus on what businesses need to do to increase their chances of winning bids and tenders in a COVID and post-COVID business environment, concluding with some top tips to ensure you maximise your chances of winning new business.

Click here to register. 

• Funding – What is new and how can you access it?

Tuesday 1 December 2020, 2pm to 3pm.

Click here to register.

• Free online employment support session

South Staffs Work Clubs and the Council’s Welfare Support team will be sharing their expert knowledge at a free online employment support session to help individuals discover what help is available to get them back into work. The online event takes place from 11am to 12.30pm on Friday 13 November 2020 – further information about this online event is available here.

• NHS test and trace support payments

Applications for NHS Test and Trace support payments are open. People who have been told by NHS Test and Trace to self- isolate who on low incomes and unable to work from home can claim a support payment of £500 to compensate for their loss of earnings if they meet certain criteria. Local authorities are administering the payments for self-isolation and residents in South Staffordshire are now able to submit an application for this support and the application form is now live. 

• Scam alert – warning over fake COVID-19 Marshals

There have been reports that scammers are pretending to be fake COVID-19 Marshals and medical professionals so they can gain access to people’s homes. Please be on your guard and look out for vulnerable friends and relatives who could fall prey to opportunist scammers. COVID-19 Marshals do not have the power to enforce social distancing, issues fines and do not have the right to enter homes.

A variety of scams are happening both online and over the telephone. Fraudsters are always trying to find new ways to dupe unsuspecting residents out of their money and you can find out more on Age UK’s website at https://www.ageuk.org.uk/barnet/our-services/latest-scams/.

If you think you have been a victim of a scam or a fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or report it online at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/news.

• Community safety – theft of catalytic converters

Catalytic converter theft is an area of crime increasing nationally and here are some steps you can take to help prevent this happening. The South Staffordshire Community Safety Partnership is working to reduce crime in the district and to reassure residents that although crime does take place, South Staffordshire is one of the lowest crime areas in the UK. For further advice or to report a crime, call the non-emergency police number on 101 or visit https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/.

If a crime is taking place, call 999.

• Protect against flu

With COVID-19 still in circulation, it’s important that as many people as possible get vaccinated for flu this autumn to protect the most vulnerable and reduce the number of people needing flu treatment from the NHS. This year, the flu vaccination programme has been expanded and more people are eligible for free flu jabs. The flu can be a serious disease and by getting the vaccine, you will be protecting yourself as well as your loved ones. Visit the NHS website to find out more about the flu vaccine and visit your GP practice website or speak to your pharmacy about booking a flu vaccination. High street chemists and most of the leading supermarkets also offer the vaccination to any adult at varying costs. 

• Doing our bit – community fund now open

A new grant fund to help community groups who are doing their bit to support vulnerable children or older people in our communities opened this week. Groups and organisations can apply online for grants of up to £2,500. Find out more here.

• Council job vacancies
• COVID-19 Support Officers – application information.
• Street Scene Operative – Level 2 – application information. Closing date 12 November 2020. 

• Next week’s Council Committee/Panel meetings
• Standards and Resources Committee – Thursday 12 November 2020 – 2.30pm – virtual meeting via Teams.

Members of the public can virtually attend this meeting via Microsoft Teams – a link can be found in the news section on the Council’s website at www.sstaffs.gov.uk. 

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

More details of the Community Climate Action Fund

Click on the image for more details

Notice of Road Closure The Avenue, Stretton

This week’s news from around the Council. 

• COVID-19 update

The number of cases of COVID-19 continues to rise and this week it was announced that Staffordshire is moving up to the High Alert level of the Government’s three-tier system on Saturday 31 October 2020. Staffordshire joins Dudley and Telford and Wrekin in moving to the higher alert level from Saturday.

All borough and districts are now seeing their numbers increase, with South Staffordshire running at above the national level. The latest data showing the district’s current seven-day infection rate now stands at 398.4 per 100,000 people at 26 October 2020.

Read a press statement issued by Staffordshire County Council here. 

What High Tier means…

The main difference between Medium and High is the additional laws on households mixing indoors. It means that it will be illegal for people to meet socially indoors with another household unless part of a ‘support bubble’. This applies to any indoor setting both in homes and public settings such as leisure or hospitality venues including pubs and restaurants. Schools and places of worship remain open, and weddings and funerals can go ahead with restrictions on the numbers attending. Care homes are being asked to restrict visiting to essential visits only and will be encouraged to continue to provide virtual contact between residents and their family and friends.

The rule of six continues to apply for socialising outdoors and you can continue to meet in parks and private gardens provided you do not gather in groups of more than six people. Where possible, you are asked to limit your travel to essential journeys only. You can still travel to places in Tier 1 but you must continue to follow Tier 2 rules.

The change in alert level is reviewed by government after 14 days.

Read some frequently asked questions here.

The Council is working hard to ensure that residents and businesses are aware of the alert level change and the support that is available to them. Moving up another level to the Very High Alert Tier 3 would see even tougher restrictions including some businesses being forced to close, so it is important that everyone follows the new rules to stop the spread of coronavirus. Please continue to wear face coverings where required, wash your hands regularly, practise safe social distancing, get tested if you have symptoms and self-isolate when needed.

• Help for businesses

In High Tier, businesses can continue to operate and tradespeople can continue to go into a household for work. Inevitably, the move to a Tier 2 status will have an impact on our economy and we anticipate that online application forms for eligible businesses to apply for grant funding will be available on the Council website from Thursday 5 November 2020. The Council will administer any applications for grant funding in accordance with the latest Central Government schemes for supporting businesses impacted by local restrictions.

Details of support available, and eligibility can be accessed via the link below. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-if-youre-eligible-for-the-coronavirus-local-restrictions-support-grant.

For further information please visit the local restriction support grant section on the Council website. This information is in the process of being updated.

• Business webinars coming up

In partnership with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, South Staffordshire Council is holding two free business webinars in November.

• The new Job Support Scheme – what you need to know.
  Tuesday 3 November 2020, 2pm to 3pm.

Please join us and Joe Gill for a presentation covering the newly launched Jobs Support Scheme available for all SMEs from November. This presentation will also cover what additional support is out there if we go into Tier 3 lockdown restrictions. A question and answer section will be held at the end of the presentation.

Click here to register.

• Bids and Tenders: The impacts of COVID-19.
  Tuesday 17 November 2020, 2pm to 3pm.

This webinar will focus on what businesses need to do to increase their chances of winning bids and tenders in a COVID and post-COVID business environment, concluding with some top tips to ensure you maximise your chances of winning new business.

Click here to register.

• Free online employment support session

South Staffs Work Club and the Council’s Welfare Support team will be sharing their expert knowledge at a free online employment support session to help individuals discover what help is available to get them back into work. The online event takes place from 11am to 12.30pm on Friday 13 November 2020 – further information about this online event is available here.

• NHS test and trace support payments

Applications for NHS Test and Trace support payments are open. People who have been told by NHS Test and Trace to self- isolate who on low incomes and unable to work from home can claim a support payment of £500 to compensate for their loss of earnings if they meet certain criteria. Local authorities are administering the payments for self-isolation and residents in South Staffordshire are now able to submit an application for this support and the application form is now live. 

• Scam alert – warning over fake COVID-19 Marshals

This week, there have been reports that scammers are pretending to be fake COVID-19 Marshals and medical professionals so they can gain access to people’s homes. Please be on your guard and look out for vulnerable friends and relatives who could fall prey to opportunist scammers. COVID-19 Marshals do not have the power to enforce social distancing, issues fines and do not have the right to enter homes.

A variety of scams are happening both online and over the telephone. Fraudsters are always trying to find new ways to dupe unsuspecting residents out of their money and you can find out more on Age UK’s website at https://www.ageuk.org.uk/barnet/our-services/latest-scams/.

Useful tips:

• HMRC will never contact you by telephone or email, all their communication is by post.
• COVID-19 Test and Trace callers will not need your bank details as all coronavirus tests are free.
• If you are asked to follow a link to provide some details don’t click on the link – your email or mobile/telephone provider will never email you for your financial details.
• If you receive an email from someone you don’t know and are being asked to follow a link, don’ click on the link – delete the email.
• If you think you have been a victim of a scam or a fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or report it online at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/news.

• Useful COVID-19 information

If you are unsure what the alert level is for your address, you can find out the local alert level in your local area with the following Postcode Checker:

https://www.gov.uk/find-coronavirus-local-restrictions 

• Information about face coverings – When to wear one, exemption cards, enforcement measures for failing to comply with the law, and how to make your own.
• Information about meeting others safely – Social distancing, the rule of six, and COVID-Secure guidelines.
• Information about what you can and can’t do – Frequently asked questions about social contact, visiting public places and taking part in activities.
• Information about NHS test and trace – The NHS test and trace service is a vital tool and helps control the spread of coronavirus. To get a test, you will need to apply online or call 119 and the test involves taking a swab of the inside of your nose and the back of your throat, using a long cotton bud. If you test positive for COVID-19, you will be asked where you’ve been recently and who you have been in close contact with. This will help the NHS contact anyone who may have caught the virus from you. All information you provide is confidential and no one who is contacted will be told your identity. Anyone you’ve been in close contact with will be told to stay at home (self-isolate) for 14 days. This is because it can take up to 14 days for coronavirus symptoms to appear.
• Information about the NHS COVID-19 app – This app is an integral part of the test and trace programme and is the fastest way of knowing when you are at risk from coronavirus. It is available to download on smartphones from Google Play Store and Apple App Store. 

• Stay safe this Halloween and Bonfire Night

Halloween and Bonfire Night are nearly here but please make sure you celebrate them safely this year to help avoid the spread of coronavirus. Remember the rule of six outdoors and only meet in groups of no more than six people. Choose games and activities that don’t used shared items and that allow people to stay two metres apart. Whether you’re carving pumpkins, celebrating with a spooky movie night or enjoying fireworks or sparklers in the garden, take care and have fun.

• Leisure update

• Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre – The swimming pool will be reopening soon to adult members-only on Thursday 5 November 2020. Booking in advance is essential and customers need to arrive swim-ready. A revised swimming timetable will be available on the website next week.

• Baggeridge Country Park – During half-term, the play area was staffed and this will continue during weekends in order to control access allowing everyone to play safely. When visiting the play area, please remember to scan the NHS Track and Trace QR Code poster on arrival, sanitise your hands on entry and exit, and maintain a safe distance from others. Entry on the hour. Play time is restricted to a maximum of 50 minutes to allow everyone the opportunity to enjoy the facility.

• Good Life Roadshows update

Earlier this year, the South Staffordshire Good Life Wellbeing Association commissioned a Lifestyle Roadshow Coordinator to deliver 12 roadshows in the district. The purpose of the roadshows was to introduce service providers to residents such as the Falls Prevention Service, Dementia Support organisations, positive mental wellbeing, Housing Associations, Local Police and Fire Teams, and local exercise groups among other things.

Six roadshows were held before the coronavirus pandemic began but due to COVID-19, the delivery of the rest of the Good Life roadshows has had to change. The Lifestyle Roadshow Coordinator has produced a leaflet of local services to offer help and advice to residents and you can view the leaflet on the Council’s website here. For further information, please contact liz.lifestyle12@gmail.com.

• Prostate cancer awareness

There is currently a drive in the West Midlands to reverse a decline in the numbers going forward for cancer screening which has worsened during the coronavirus pandemic. In order to increase the numbers of men coming forward for screening, Prostate Cancer UK is promoting an online risk checker. This asks three simple questions and provides an action to follow up. It’s important to contact your GP Surgery if you have any concerns about prostate cancer or any other health problems. The impact of COVID-19 means that thousands may be diagnosed too late so check your risk now.

www.prostatecanceruk.org

• Protect against flu

Every year, the annual NHS flu vaccination is available to help protect adults and children at risk from flu and its complications. With COVID-19 still in circulation, it’s important that as many people as possible get vaccinated for flu this autumn to protect the most vulnerable and reduce the number of people needing flu treatment from the NHS. This year, the flu vaccination programme has been expanded and more people are eligible for free flu jabs. The flu can be a serious disease and by getting the vaccine, you will be protecting yourself as well as your loved ones. Visit the NHS website to find out more about the flu vaccine and visit your GP practice website or speak to your pharmacy about booking a flu vaccination. High street chemists and most of the leading supermarkets also offer the vaccination to any adult at varying costs. 

• Doing our bit – community fund now open

A new grant fund to help community groups who are doing their bit to support vulnerable children or older people in our communities opened this week. Groups and organisations can apply online for grants of up to £2,500. Find out more here.

• Staffordshire good neighbour scheme

Have you thought about becoming involved in a good neighbour scheme? Support Staffordshire is keen to support newer groups to continue long-term so that communities can continue to benefit from the good community links that have been established due to the coronavirus pandemic. Find out more about the Good Neighbour Scheme here or visit the Support Staffordshire website.

www.supportstaffordshire.org.uk

• Free online behaviour and wellbeing workshops

November Behaviour and Wellbeing Programmes for South Staffordshire – run by the Family Support Service by SCTSP (Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Support Project) in Partnership with Staffordshire County Council. 

• Council job vacancies
• COVID-19 Support Officers – application information.
• Street Scene Operative – Level 2 – application information. Closing date 12 November 2020.

• Next week’s Council Committee/Panel meetings
• Audit and Risk Committee – Tuesday 3 November 2020 – 4pm – virtual meeting via Teams.

Members of the public can virtually attend these meetings via Microsoft Teams – links can be found in the news section on the Council’s website at www.sstaffs.gov.uk. 

• Super draw this Saturday

Another £2,000 winner last week! Could you be a winner this weekend? Now more than ever, good causes in South Staffordshire need your support. One way you can help is by buying a lottery ticket in our weekly Community Lottery and as well as supporting a good cause you might even win a cash prize ranging from £25 up to a jackpot of £25,000. To buy a lottery ticket, simply register on the website www.southstaffslottery.co.uk or telephone 01902 213777. It’s nearly time for the next super draw, which takes place on 31 October 2020, so buy a lottery ticket now for a chance to win a family forest staycation voucher worth £500, redeemable with Forest Holidays.

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

This week’s news from around the Council. 

• COVID-19 update

On Monday 12 October 2020, the Prime Minister announced the introduction of a new three-tier system of COVID-19 restrictions – ‘medium’, ‘high’ and ‘very high’ alert levels. You can read more about his statement here.

Staffordshire is in the Medium Tier of the Government’s three-tier system but COVID-19 cases are rising fast in South Staffordshire. Residents and businesses are urged to help protect the district and avoid tighter restrictions by continuing to follow the national guidance and observe the crucial messages about the importance of handwashing, wearing face masks, maintaining social distancing and following the Rule of Six, and self-isolating when needed.

You can read a statement by Brian Edwards MBE, Leader of South Staffordshire Council and view a short video message from Dave Heywood, Chief Executive of South Staffordshire Council.

COVID-19 testing sites have been set up in the district on Saturday 17 October 2020, from 10am to 2pm to find out how much the virus is circulating in the local community. To do this, testing is being carried out on people who aren’t currently showing any symptoms of COVID-19 and residents are being asked to help with this important work.

Testing is taking place at:

• Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre, Saredon Road, Cheslyn Hay, WS6 7JQ
• Great Wyrley Scout and Guide Centre, Walsall Road, Great Wyrley, WS6 6LA

Testing is quick and free and 200 appointments for each location are available. They must be booked in advance here: https://staffordshire.zipporah.co.uk/TrackAndTrace/

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, please do not attend this testing. You must stay at home and book a test through the NHS national portal or by calling 119. If positive, you must stay in for 10 days. Anybody who you have been in close contact with must self-isolate for 14 days. 

What the three alert levels mean…

Tier 1: Medium alert level – summary document listing restrictions for the tier.

This covers most of the country including Staffordshire. In this tier, current national guidance measures apply, which includes:

• Follow the Rule of Six.
• Work from home if you can.
• Wash your hands regularly.
• Wear a face covering when you need to and in shops and on public transport.
• Keep a safe social distance.
• The closing of hospitality venues at 10pm.

Tier 2: High alert level – summary document listing restrictions for the tier.

This is for areas with a higher level of infections and includes areas in the West Midlands including Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell, Solihull and Birmingham. People must not meet with anyone outside their household or support bubble in any indoor setting. The Rule of Six applies outdoors.

Tier 3: Very high alert level – summary document listing restrictions for the tier.

This is for areas with very high level of infections. Pubs and bars must close, and additional measures are determined in consultation with local authorities.

Retail, schools and universities remain open.

If you are unsure what the alert level is for your address, you can find out the local alert level in your local area with the following Postcode Checker:

https://www.gov.uk/find-coronavirus-local-restrictions

For more information, visit: www.sstaffs.gov.uk/coronavirus

Sign up for updates from the Council here.

• Useful COVID-19 information
• Information about face coverings – When to wear one, exemption cards, enforcement measures for failing to comply with the law, and how to make your own.
• Information about meeting others safely – Social distancing, the rule of six, and COVID-Secure guidelines.
• Information about what you can and can’t do – Frequently asked questions about social contact, visiting public places and taking part in activities.
• Information about NHS test and trace – The NHS test and trace service is a vital tool and helps control the spread of coronavirus. To get a test, you will need to apply online or call 119 and the test involves taking a swab of the inside of your nose and the back of your throat, using a long cotton bud. If you test positive for COVID-19, you will be asked where you’ve been recently and who you have been in close contact with. This will help the NHS contact anyone who may have caught the virus from you. All information you provide is confidential and no one who is contacted will be told your identity. Anyone you’ve been in close contact with will be told to stay at home (self-isolate) for 14 days. This is because it can take up to 14 days for coronavirus symptoms to appear.
• Information about the NHS COVID-19 app – This app is an integral part of the test and trace programme and is the fastest way of knowing when you are at risk from coronavirus. It is available to download on smartphones from Google Play Store and Apple App Store. 

• NHS test and trace support payments

This week, South Staffordshire Council launched applications for NHS Test and Trace support payments. This follows the Government’s announcement that from Monday 28 September 2020 people who have been told by NHS Test and Trace to self- isolate who on low incomes and unable to work from home can claim a support payment of £500 to compensate for their loss of earnings if they meet certain criteria. Local authorities are administering the payments for self-isolation and residents in South Staffordshire are now able to submit an application for this support and the application form is now live.

• Protect against flu

Every year, the annual NHS flu vaccination is available to help protect adults and children at risk from flu and its complications. With COVID-19 still in circulation, it’s important that as many people as possible get vaccinated for flu this autumn to protect the most vulnerable and reduce the number of people needing flu treatment from the NHS. This year, the flu vaccination programme has been expanded and more people are eligible for free flu jabs. The flu can be a serious disease and by getting the vaccine, you will be protecting yourself as well as your loved ones. Visit the NHS website to find out more about the flu vaccine and visit your GP practice website or speak to your pharmacy about booking a flu vaccination. High street chemists and most of the leading supermarkets also offer the vaccination to any adult at varying costs.

• High streets recovery work in South Staffordshire

This month, Councillors have been delivering hand sanitisers to local businesses and the Council’s Locality Enablers and Street Scene team have been busy displaying information and social distancing posters in local high streets throughout the district. You can see some pics here.

Remember, there is a selection of free resources in the Council’s business toolkit. This includes posters about face coverings, hand sanitisers and social distancing and they can be found in the Council’s online bank of resources on its website. Businesses can download and print the posters and signs free of charge and display them in their place of business.

• Leisure Services update

Last week, swimming lessons re-started at Wombourne Leisure Centre and swimmers adapted extremely well. Everyone followed the new protocols, which made the lessons run smoothly, and we felt really proud of all of the young swimmers and their parents who all played their part in making the return of swimming lessons such a success. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff and swimming instructors for their support and enthusiasm and especially thanks to Bridget Chambers for all her hard work over the past few months.

The Leisure Services team is now working on preparations for Codsall Leisure Centre and it is hoped that swimming lessons will re-start there in November. Cheslyn Hay and Penkridge Leisure Centres are still undergoing work and so lessons will re-start at these centres in due course.

• 4% satisfaction levels for waste and recycling service

A recent survey launched during National Recycle Week last month showed that 95.4% of residents in South Staffordshire are satisfied with their waste and recycling kerbside services.

• Doing our bit – community fund now open

A new grant fund to help community groups who are doing their bit to support vulnerable children or older people in our communities opened this week. Groups and organisations can apply online for grants of up to £2,500. Find out more here.

• Birmingham 2022 launches apprenticeship scheme

A new Birmingham 2022 apprenticeship scheme has been launched, giving you the chance to be part of the 2022 team whilst gaining top class support and training. Find out more at:

www.birmingham2022.com/news/blog/apprenticeships

• Do you know a Hometown Hero?

Birmingham Commonwealth Games are looking for Hometown Heroes as part of their marketing campaign in the run up to the games in 2022. They are asking people to nominate those who deserve to be recognised for making a difference to their communities by dedicating their lives to grassroots sport. Nominees could be an inspiring coach, dedicated volunteer, courageous player or diehard supporter, or anyone who’s had a real impact on their sport club, team or facility. To find out more, visit:

https://www.birmingham2022.com/hometownheroes/

• Together we win!

Now more than ever, good causes in South Staffordshire need your support. One way you can help is by buying a lottery ticket in our weekly Community Lottery and as well as supporting a good cause you might even win a cash prize ranging from £25 up to a jackpot of £25,000. To buy a lottery ticket, simply register on the website www.southstaffslottery.co.uk or telephone 01902 213777. The next super draw also takes place on 31 October 2020 so there’s a chance to win a family forest staycation voucher worth £500 too, redeemable with Forest Holidays. 

• Council job vacancies
• Street Scene Operative – Level 3 (Arboriculturist) – application information.

Closing date 19 October 2020.

• Technical Support Officer – application information. Closing date 30 October 2020. 

• Next week’s Committee/Panel meetings
• Planning Committee – Tuesday 20 October 2020 – 6.30pm – virtual meeting on Teams.
• Personal Development Review and Appointments Panel – Wednesday 21 October 2020 – 2pm – virtual meeting on Teams.
• Locality 2 Forum – Wednesday 21 October 2020 – 5pm – virtual meeting on Teams.
• Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Wednesday 21 October 2020 – 6.30pm – virtual meeting on Teams.
• Locations for Growth Discussion Member Briefing Session – Thursday 22 October 2020 – 5.30pm – virtual meeting on Teams. 

Members of the public can virtually attend these meetings via Microsoft Teams – links can be found in the news section on the Council’s website at www.sstaffs.gov.uk. 

Everyone is encouraged to submit news items, please email: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk