Coronavirus Progress from local Lib Dem Councillors

<hr/ />

Many residents will be aware of the increase of Coronavirus cases in Spelthorne. We recognise our responsibility in this pandemic to be working together and avoiding a local spike and the implementation of any extra measures. In light of this, we wanted to share what work we as councillors have been doing in relation to Coronavirus:

<hr/ />

Cllr Sandra Dunn has written to our MP, Kwasi Kwarteng, asking about the failures in test and trace and to provide support to students and staff in schools following several year groups being forced to isolate.

<hr/ />

Kwasi Kwarteng's assistant replied:

Kwasi has asked me to thank you for your email, and to reply on his behalf to ensure you receive a rapid response.

As you know, a sharp rise in demand over the last few weeks has put extra pressure on the testing system, and it is very frustrating if residents cannot book a test locally.

The Government is working hard to increase capacity, and Kwasi is of course talking to his colleagues in the Government about expanding and improving the system. The NHS Test and Trace app will be available from next Thursday, which will help with quick and effective tracing, and Kwasi is of course keeping a close eye on the situation.

Cllr Chris Bateson worked with council officers on the first mobile testing unit in Fordbridge Park, following up on casework from businesses and individuals affected to help find an alternative site.

<hr/ />

Cllr Tom Fidler has been trying to arrange a meeting of the Surrey Joint Committee with Spelthorne to discuss the lessons learnt from the initial spike in cases earlier in the year and ensuring we are prepared locally for any further increase

<hr/ />

Cllr Lawrence Nichols worked closely with officers to try and get more information in the public domain about local cases so that we have transparency about the issues in their area.

<hr/ />

Cllr Kathy Grant has been raising concerns about the capacity for testing at the new Mobile Testing Unit in Sunbury Park. Concerned that residents were unable to book into tests locally as demand increases, she has been following up with officers.

<hr/ />

Cllr Richard Dunn asked about Spelthorne's recovery plans and about how Council services would continue to adapt in the changing circumstances. This is even more pertinent now as the council's action plan is developed.

<hr/ />

Cllr Bernie Spoor pressed Officers from Surrey and Spelthorne over concerns of student access to digital technology at the height of the coronavirus pandemic. He tried to ensure the most disadvantaged students had access so they could continue their education

Here is how to contact your local Lib Dem Councillor:

Email: info@spelthornelibdems.org.uk

Telephone: 01932 787854