Coronavirus Update 19.03.2020

Coronavirus Update 19/03/2020 - How you can help

As the pandemic continues, we are doing our best to help continue to get information to those most in need. As such, we have the following update for you to note:

Government Advice

The latest information from the Government can be found here - https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response
It is all of our responsibility to act in the best interests of the community and therefore to follow the medical advice we are given. This can be difficult, but please do follow advice on social distancing and seek advice as you need it.

Spelthorne Borough Council

We have been briefed on the latest update from the council, the details of the action being taken by the council can be found here - http://www.spelthorne.gov.uk/article/19164/Coronavirus
This page is being updated with all of the updates from the council and therefore should be checked regularly. As previously mentioned, services have been affected and the council has had to make the difficult decision to close all public-facing services to walk-ins. However, the core services are still being provided. Please find below a sheet with the contact details for the departments in the meantime.

We have asked questions about our parks and open spaces which will remain open. It is important during this self-isolation that you do continue to do some exercise, provided you follow social distancing protocol.
The Council have shared information on their Twitter, Facebook and Instagram social media networks

Getting Involved

In line with the Council's strategy, we would encourage all volunteers to channel efforts through the North Surrey Volunteer Action group who can be found here - https://voluntarysupport.org.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/

Through them, volunteers can be confident their data is handled safely whilst helping, but also ensuring people can find out about the services available to help them. They have a list of the organisations in our area where people can help.

At the time of writing, this is the 4 major foodbanks in the area which the Council has financially supported during this time of hardship. We are in liaison with them on this, and we will also be extending the knowledge accessible to residents.

We have raised through conversations with our Lib Dem MPs the fact that many residents are fearful for their economic prospects in light of the rental market, zero -contracts, loss of trade amongst other issues. We have asked for them to continue to push for assurances for residents and trust that the government will listen to those concerns and act promptly to allay fears.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/tax-helpline-to-support-businesses-affected-by-coronavirus-covid-19?&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=covid19 - This has the most important information for those affected by business change.

We are working as best we can to ensure that we are keeping people informed with up to date information and with partners to ensure we are all working together. We hope you will also appreciate that given the guidance from the Government, some of our activities may be more limited than they have been. All Spelthorne Lib Dem Councillors can still be contacted by phone or email and will be happy to help as much as possible.

We are endeavouring to maintain our safety levels whilst also delivering the Focus newsletters we have to our communities. This is slowing down delivery, but all stories can be found on our website for updates about campaigns and local casework.

Stay safe

Spelthorne Liberal Democrats

Previous Coronavirus Updates:

Update 1 - 16.03.2020