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 [email protected].

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: [email protected]

19 October 2020

Council News 190

Jess Shulman

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

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

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

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: [email protected]

10 October 2020

Council News 191

Jess Shulman

This week’s news from around the Council.

COVID-19 update

At present, Staffordshire remains in the Medium Tier of the Government’s three-tier system but COVID-19 cases continue to rise in South Staffordshire and the rest of the county. Staffordshire is at risk of being placed on the Government’s High Alert Level unless it can curb the rising number of COVID-19 cases. All borough and districts are now seeing their numbers increase, with Cannock and South Staffordshire running at above the national level per 100,000 of population. Read a press statement issued by Staffordshire County Council here.

Asymptomatic testing has been taking place in Great Wyrley and Essington this week 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 on Saturday 24 October 2020 (10am to 2pm) at:

Essington Community Centre, Hobnock Road, WV11 2RF.
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 need to book through the NHS national portal or by calling 119.

NHS test and trace support payments

Applications for NHS Test and Trace support payments are now open. 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.

Help for businesses

The three-tier alert system impacts on local business and the Council has been working hard to ensure that should our alert level change, then we are ready to help them. For further information please visit the local restriction support grant section on the Council website.

Useful COVID-19 information – 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.

Follow the rule of six if meeting indoors or outdoors.
Pubs and restaurants to close 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. On Saturday, Stoke-on-Trent will move into this Tier too.

No household mixing indoors.
The rule of six applies outdoors.
Pubs and restaurants to close at 10pm.

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,

No household mixing indoors or outdoors in hospitality venues or private gardens.
The rule of six applies in outdoor public spaces like parks.
Pubs and bars not serving meals will be closed.
Guidance against travelling in and out of the area.
Additional measures may be agreed locally in consultation with local authorities.

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

Web links to more useful 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.

Green Flag Awards

This year has brought home the importance of parks and green spaces and last week a record-breaking 2,000 green spaces across the country – including Baggeridge County Park and the Wom Brook Walk – were awarded the international quality mark of a Green Flag Award. Parks and green spaces have been a lifeline for many people during the coronavirus pandemic and millions of people have used them to relax, meet friends, exercise or simply escape for a short time. Well done to Baggeridge Country Park and the Wom Brook Walk.

New blue bin sticker
Over the next two weeks, recycling crews will be stickering all blue bins in the district with a new and updated sticker to remind residents about all the items that can be accepted for recycling in the blue bin. For a full list of materials and what bins they should be put in, please visit the Recycling Finder on the Council website.

Protect against flu

Free online employment support session

Doing our bit – community fund now open

Staffordshire good neighbour scheme

www.supportstaffordshire.org.uk

Free online behaviour and wellbeing workshops

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. 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: [email protected]

9 October 2020

Council News 189

Jess Shulman

This week’s news from around the Council.

Results – The MJ Awards

The results of this year’s MJ Achievement Awards were announced last week at a live virtual awards ceremony and the Council were Highly Commended in the Best Senior Leadership Team category, which is absolutely fantastic given the stiff competition. South Staffordshire Council was also shortlisted in the Best Commercial Council category. These awards recognise the very best in people, projects and practice across local government.

i54 Bus Contract

The i54 bus contract with NX due to expire on 10 October will now expire on 30 October and there will be no direct replacement service available. The service was heavily subsidised since inception and despite the promotional activity and business support, the patronage figures were not sufficient to continue the service on a commercially viable basis. There are still services operating to the site but not through the site to Staffordshire. The services which run to the site from Wolverhampton will continue. These services will run to normal timetable and they are service numbers: 4, 6 and 25.

Emergency Assistance Food and Supplies Grant – In these challenging times, do you know anyone who is struggling financially and would benefit from some support to purchase food or emergency supplies as they can receive funding towards food and essential supplies. Click here for more information.

Police – Crime/Anti-Social Behaviour Statistics

Chief Inspector Dave Wain tweeted a thank you to the local community and partners for helping the neighbourhood policing team to cut crime and anti-social behaviour in South Staffordshire. See his tweet

Planning Enforcement Team – Keeping on top of fly tipping and neighbour issues often gets a bad press despite the hard work of our planning enforcement officers. However, the determination of the Enforcement Team paid off recently when a landowner finally cleared a site which had caused issues for a local community in Great Wyrley since 2017. Click here to view the photographs.
Street Scene Update – This week Rachel Porter has joined the team as our new Enviro Crime and Enforcement Officer. The Street Scene team are now responsible for the investigation and enforcement of breaches of environmental legislation across the district. In practice this includes fly tipping, abandoned vehicles, dog fouling and littering. Please note that our planning enforcement team are still responsible for investigating breaches of planning control, including unauthorised works, non-compliance with planning conditions, enforcement of tree preservation orders etc.

Protect against flu

Quit smoking this Stoptober

Stopping smoking is one of the best things you’ll ever do for your health. It’s never too late to quit and this year’s Stoptober campaign features a range of information and support on quitting, including a free Stoptober App. The sooner you quit, the sooner you’ll notice changes to your body and the positive benefits that quitting smoking has on lung health. Many people try to quit smoking with willpower alone, but it’s much easier with the right help so take a look at the support that’s available and visit the NHS Better Health website for more information.

COVID-19 update

Protect #South Staffordshire and help avoid a local lockdown

With the district now experiencing an increasing number of COVID-19 cases, please observe social distancing guidance and follow the rule of six to avoid a local lockdown. Remember to Wash hands, cover face, make space.

Warning issued to act now as South Staffordshire cases rise rapidly. Click here for more 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. In England, you must wear a face covering by law in a number of indoor settings and face coverings now need to be worn by staff in retail, all users of taxis and private hire vehicles, and staff and customers in indoor hospitality except when seated at a table to eat or drink. The penalty for failing to wear a face covering or breaking the rule of six is £200 for a first offence and there are fines of up to £10,000 for those who fail to self-isolate.

Information about meeting others safely – Social distancing, the rule of six, and COVID-Secure guidelines. The rule of six means that people cannot meet socially in groups of more than six people. This applies in any setting, indoors or outdoors but does not apply to schools and workplaces. COVID-Secure weddings and funerals are exempt and up to 15 people are able to attend wedding ceremonies and receptions and up to 30 people can attend a funeral. Adult indoor team sports are no longer exempt and the planned return of spectators to large sporting events/venues and business conferences/exhibitions has been paused.

Information about what you can and can’t do – Frequently asked questions about social contact, visiting public places and taking part in activities, clinically vulnerable groups and clinically extremely vulnerable groups, and care homes, going to work and being COVID-19 Secure, workers’ rights, public transport, and schools and childcare.

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.

What the app does:

It alerts you if you’ve been near other app users who have tested positive or coronavirus.
Lets you know the level of coronavirus risk in your postcode district.
Alerts you if you have visited a venue where you may have come into contact with coronavirus.
Provides a checklist of coronavirus symptoms to see if you need to order a free test.
Helps you book a test and get your result quickly.
If you need to self-isolate, it keeps track of your self-isolation countdown and provides relevant advice.

The app includes a QR Code tool that scans QR Codes on posters that businesses have been asked to add to their premises, making the process of data collection easier for both customers and businesses. Customers simply scan the code with their smartphone, and this registers their visit. It means that anyone using the premises can be contacted in the event of a coronavirus outbreak and will help contact tracing efforts.

Information about self-isolation support schemes – Local authorities are administering payments for self-isolation to people who are required to self-isolate and who meet the benefits-linked eligibility criteria. Information about South Staffordshire Council’s test and trace support payment scheme is now available on the Council’s website. The application process will be live from 12 October and the form will be on our website. Anyone unable to access the online application form can request a call back and the application can be taken over the telephone.

Coronavirus support and advice for businesses
Business webinar next week – Run in partnership with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, the Council’s next business webinar will take place on Tuesday 13 October 2020 at 2pm. The subject of the webinar is ‘Selecting Your Marketing Mix – For Business Revival’ and this interactive session will guide you through your marketing strategy. Register here for the webinar.

Free resources in Council’s business toolkit – Posters about face coverings, hand sanitisers and social distancing 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.

South Staffordshire Community Lottery – £2,000 Winner

Each week the Lottery gives supporters the chance of winning cash prizes ranging from £25 up to a £25,000 jackpot! Last Saturday, one lucky supporter scooped £2,000 when they matched 5 numbers in a row! The lottery has now made 288 cash winners and given away just over £16,500 in cash prizes. Play today from as little as £1 a week to be in with the chance of winning £25, £250, £2,000 or the £25,000 jackpot. Play today at www.southstaffslottery.co.uk

Refer a Good Cause and receive FREE lottery plays!

Are you connected to a local sports club, PTA, charity or community group that supports South Staffordshire’s residents? Are they looking for new ways to generate income? Why not tell them about the South Staffordshire Community Lottery! It’s a FREE online platform that can give them a sustainable means of generating income at a time when traditional fund raising activities can’t take place. Signpost them today to www.southstaffslottery.co.uk today. When referring a good cause, email Niki Taylor at [email protected] with the name of the good cause. If they register you will receive 2 FREE lottery tickets for 2 weekly draws!

Urban Tree Challenge Fund – The council has recently been successful in our application to the Urban Tree Challenge fund for funding to plant 1,500 trees across the following council owned sites:-

Jubilee Wood, Bilbrook
Open space off St Andrews Drive, Perton
Strawberry Lane Cemetery, Great Wyrley

In monetary terms, the grant comes to £1,725 to cover purchase of stock and maintenance of the tree and we shall be making plans to work with our friends groups, parish councils, and volunteers to plant these trees over the coming winter. If you have any questions or would like to get involved in this project, please contact Ryan Taylor on [email protected]

Council job vacancies
Benefit Assessment Officer – application information.

Closing date – 9 October 2020.

Street Scene Operative – Level 3 (Arboriculturist) – application information.

Closing date – 19 October 2020.

Next week’s Council Committee/Panel meetings
Member Engagement and Training Group – Tuesday 13 October 2020 – 4.30pm – virtual meeting on Teams
Member Briefing Session re RPP – Tuesday 13 October 2020 – 6.00pm – virtual meeting on Teams
Personal Development Review and Appointments Panel – Wednesday 14 October 2020 – 10.00am – virtual meeting on Teams
Special Council – Wednesday 14 October 2020 – 5.30pm – virtual meeting on Teams
Licensing and Regulatory Committee – Thursday15 October 2020 – 2.30 pm – 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: [email protected]

6 October 2020

Staffordshire Smart Alert

Jess Shulman

2 October 2020

Council News 188

Jess Shulman

This week’s news from around the Council.

Protect against flu

Improvements carried out at local nature reserve

A nature reserve next to the i54 South Staffordshire western extension site has undergone a £50,000 improvement scheme thanks to the site development team. Pendeford Hall Nature Reserve received the money through a planning agreement to help continue and develop its education, health and wellbeing, and personal and social skills development outdoor activities for local communities. Visit the i54 online website to find out more.

Quit smoking this Stoptober

Staffordshire History Festival

The annual Staffordshire History Festival continues its two-month celebration of local history and cultural heritage in Staffordshire and beyond. This year’s festival is a virtual programme and information about how to participate is being posted on Staffordshire Libraries Facebook page during the festival.

COVID-19 update

Protect #South Staffordshire and help avoid a local lockdown

The latest West Midlands local restrictions advice for residents – Wolverhampton is one of a growing list of towns and cities placed under COVID-19 lockdown measures. South Staffordshire residents can travel to these areas for work, school, shopping or leisure activities. However, residents are not allowed to visit homes in these areas unless it is for work or the household is part of your support bubble. Likewise, if you live in any of the affected areas you can travel to South Staffordshire but you must not meet socially with residents in their homes or gardens unless they are in your single support bubble.

South Staffordshire is not currently one of the areas affected by the Government’s latest COVID-19 restrictions. However, South Staffordshire residents travelling out of the county need to be aware there are high levels of COVID-19 in Birmingham, Solihull, Sandwell and Wolverhampton and they need to consider this when making social visits to these areas to meet with friends or family. Vulnerable people do not need to shield, unless they are within a local lockdown area.

Information about the NHS COVID-19 app – Following last Thursday’s launch, over 10 million people in England and Wales downloaded the NHS COVID-19 app over the first weekend. 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.

What the app does:

It alerts you if you’ve been near other app users who have tested positive or coronavirus.
Lets you know the level of coronavirus risk in your postcode district.
Alerts you if you have visited a venue where you may have come into contact with coronavirus.
Provides a checklist of coronavirus symptoms to see if you need to order a free test.
Helps you book a test and get your result quickly.
If you need to self-isolate, it keeps track of your self-isolation countdown and provides relevant advice.

The app includes a QR Code tool that scans QR Codes on posters that businesses have been asked to add to their premises, making the process of data collection easier for both customers and businesses. Customers simply scan the code with their smartphone and this registers their visit. It means that anyone using the premises can be contacted in the event of a coronavirus outbreak and will help contact tracing efforts.

Coronavirus support and advice for businesses
Business webinar – change of date – Run in partnership with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, the Council’s next business webinar will now take place on Tuesday 13 October 2020 at 2pm. The subject of the webinar is ‘Selecting Your Marketing Mix – For Business Revival’ and this interactive session will guide you through your marketing strategy. Register here for the webinar.

Recent measures – All hospitality venues must close by 10pm and all pubs, bars and restaurants must operate a table service only except for takeaways. In retail, leisure and tourism, and other sectors, the COVID Secure guidelines are legal obligations. Businesses could be fined/closed if they breach the rules.

New resources added to Council’s business toolkit – This week, additional posters about face coverings and hand sanitisers have been added to 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
Wombourne Leisure Centre – Swimming lessons are due to restart at the leisure centre next week and full details will be circulated over the next few days together with a short video to show participants what to expect. Once we are happy that everything is going well, we will plan to restart swimming lessons at Codsall Leisure Centre.

Winners announced – loyalty rewards

This week, the Council’s Leisure Centres held a prize draw for members with prizes including a Fitbit Charge 3, Lean in 15 cookbook, resistance bands, and bottles and towels.

Congratulations to the winners of the Fitbits who you can see here:

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre – Jennifer Selvey.

Codsall Leisure Centre – Jane Woolf.

Penkridge Leisure Centre – Ronald Campbell.

Wombourne Leisure Centre – Lynda Deeney.

Additional safety measures for children’s play area at Baggeridge

Since the new play area opened this summer at Baggeridge Country Park, we have been delighted to see so many people enjoying the new facility. Due to the play area proving to be so popular, we have closely monitored usage and made the decision to add additional safety measures, which includes staffing the facility at weekends. To ensure the play area remains safe for everyone to use, the following guidelines will apply from Saturday 3 October 2020:

The play area will be restricted to a maximum of 50 people. Children and supervising adults will only be able to access the facility on the hour and play time will be restricted to 50 minutes per session to give everyone the chance to use the play area. At the end of every 50-minute session the play area will be cleared, ready for the next visitors.
If you are using the NHS COVID-19 app on your smartphone, please scan the QR Code poster at the play area on arrival. If you do not have access to the app, please leave your name and contact details.
Please sanitise your hands when you enter and leave the play area.

Seasonal opening hours for cemeteries

From Thursday 1 October 2020, the closing times will be changing to 4.30pm at Sytch Lane Cemetery in Wombourne and Strawberry Lane Cemetery in Great Wyrley. Both cemeteries are open every day of the year for visitors at the above times and for funerals Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 9am and 3pm.

Seasonal opening and closing hours for the cemeteries are:

9am to 4.30pm from 1 October to 31 March.

9am to 8pm from 1 April to 30 September.

Support Staffordshire training dates

Funded by Staffordshire County Council, here is information and training dates for online virtual ‘Supportive Communities’ training sessions to gain new knowledge and skills in supporting older people.

Free online behaviour and wellbeing workshops

October 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.

Together we win!

Last weekend, the South Staffordshire Community Lottery had a £250 winner! Congratulations to our winner and good luck everyone 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. 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
Benefit Assessment Officer – application information.

Closing date – 9 October 2020.

Next week’s Council Committee/Panel meetings
Wellbeing Select Committee – Tuesday 6 October 2020 – 5.30pm – virtual meeting on Teams.
Personal Development Review and Appointments Panel – Wednesday 7 October 2020 – 2pm – 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: [email protected]

1 October 2020

Full Parish Council Meeting – 22nd October 2020 at 7pm

Jess Shulman

Jess Shulman

About Jess Shulman

Posts by Jess Shulman:

Community Climate Action Fund

South Staffs Work Clubs Webinar

Notice of Road Closure

Council News 192

Council News 190

Council News 191

Council News 189

Staffordshire Smart Alert

Council News 188

Full Parish Council Meeting – 22nd October 2020 at 7pm

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