South Staffordshire Council News Archives

Weekly news bulletin from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire 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

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire 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.

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

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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 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 – 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: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

New measures announced

On Tuesday, the Prime Minister addressed the nation in a live TV broadcast. In response to an increasing number of COVID-19 cases and the COVID alert level being raised from 3 to 4 last Monday, new restrictions and measures were announced by the Prime Minister.
Prime Minister’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 22 September 2020
and New measures in response to the acceleration of coronavirus.

In summary:

Office workers who can work from home should now do so.
From Thursday 24 September 2020, all pubs, bars and restaurants must operate a table service only except for takeaways. All hospitality venues must close by 10pm.
The requirement to wear face coverings has been extended to include 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.
In retail, leisure and tourism, and other sectors, the COVID Secure guidelines will become legal obligations. Businesses could be fined/closed if they breach the rules.
The rule of six rule is to be tightened up and adult indoor team sports will no longer be exempt. From Monday 28 September 2020, the maximum number of people able to attend wedding ceremonies and receptions will be reduced from 30 to 15 people. Up to 30 people can still attend a funeral.
The planned return of spectators to large sporting events/venues and business conferences/exhibitions has been paused.

Tougher penalties were also announced by the Prime Minister. The penalty for failing to wear a face covering or breaking the rule of six will double to £200 for a first offence. Fines of up to £10,000 for those who fail to self-isolate have already been introduced.

It should be noted however, that vulnerable people do not need to shield, unless they are within a local lockdown area. Click here to view FAQs about what you can and can’t do.

COVID-19 West Midlands local restrictions

Last Tuesday, Wolverhampton joined the growing list of towns and cities being placed under new COVID-19 lockdown measures.

For the latest West Midlands local restrictions advice for residents, visit:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/birmingham-sandwell-and-solihull-local-restrictions?fbclid=IwAR0hLH9qFz1wgL82EYl_BEBEmnuesYy2Zvk-IVJ3Vv1aKgZHExC-ACQSX7I

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.

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.

NHS COVID-19 app

The new NHS COVID-19 app for England and Wales is now available to download. The app is an integral part of the NHS test and trace programme and it makes the process of data collection easier for both the customer and the business so people using the premises can be contacted in the event of a coronavirus outbreak. Customers simply scan a QR Code with their smartphone when they enter a venue, and the phone app and QR Code create a digital record so the venue information is logged on the user’s phone.

What the app does:

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.

Find out more at: www.covid19.nhs.uk

COVID-19 essential information

Wash hands, cover face, make space – please remember the ‘One metre plus’ social distancing rule.

Face coverings – In England, you must wear a face covering by law in a number of indoor settings – click here for more information.

Follow the ‘rule of six’.

NHS test and trace – click here to find out more.

If you develop symptoms, get a test as soon as possible. Do not wait. To get a test, you will need to apply online on www.gov.uk or call 119. Depending on how many days have passed since you started to develop symptoms, you will either take a home test or be tested at a test site. The test involves taking a swab of the inside of your nose and the back of your throat, using a long cotton bud.

The NHS test and trace service is a vital tool and helps control the spread of coronavirus. In England, you will be contacted by the service if you test positive for COVID-19 and 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.

Remember – the NHS test and trace service will not ask you for bank details or payments, ask for details of any social media accounts, ask you to set up a password or PIN number over the phone, or ask you to call a premium rate number, such as those starting 09 or 087.

Coronavirus support and advice for businesses

NHS COVID-19 app – It is now a legal requirement for venues in hospitality, leisure and tourism, close contact services, places of worship and local authorities to display an official NHS QR Code poster. Visit the Council website to find out more.

Workplace action cards are now available from Public Health England, which provide instructions to anyone responsible for a business or organisation on what to do in the event of one or more confirmed cases of COVID-19 in your organisation. These quick reference guides provide key steps to help you quickly identify, report and respond to any potential COVID-19 outbreak within your local community. The action cards have been developed to cover a range of businesses and organisations to provide specific advice on the issues each type of organisation may face now lockdown restrictions have been eased.

New business webinar – Run in partnership with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, the Council’s next business webinar will take place on Thursday 9 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.

Council Leisure Services update

After the recent government announcements, leisure centre staff and customers must wear a face mask/covering in all public areas of the leisure centres. Public areas include reception, corridors and toilets. Face coverings can be removed once customers have reached their respective exercise area and can be removed during the workout. However, face coverings will then need to be worn when exiting the facility area and building.

Baggeridge Country Park will be monitoring usage of the children’s play area and are working towards implementing a ‘One in, one out’ policy, with restricted and reduced access. This is due to start at the weekend.

As part of the NHS test and trace system, the leisure centres and Baggeridge Country Park are now all displaying QR Code posters for the NHS COVID-19 app. Visitors/customers will need to download the app on their smartphone so they can scan on entry to the park and leisure centres. QR Code posters will also be located within various areas of the park including the Lydiate Room, payment machines in the car park and the children’s play area. They will also be located in areas of the park occupied by tenants such as the tea-room and high rope facility.

Loyalty rewards for leisure centre members

Next week, members of the leisure centres will be in with the chance of winning some fantastic prizes when Leisure Services holds a random prize draw. Members will have the chance to win some fantastic prizes including a Fit Bit charge 3, resistance bands, Lean in 15 cookbook, protein bars, bottles and towels. Good luck to everyone.

National fitness day

Last Wednesday, the Council’s leisure centres were delighted to take part in National Fitness Day and promote the importance of being active and how it can have a positive impact on people’s bodies and minds. Lots of staff, instructors and young people shared photos of what fitness means to them and you can see more on the leisure centres’ Facebook pages.

Waste and recycling collections survey

This ‘Recycle Week’, South Staffordshire residents are being asked to complete a short, three question survey on waste and recycling collections within the district. It takes less than two minutes to complete and we would be grateful if you could take the time to fill this out and share with your family and friends in South Staffordshire.

https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/JT5G786

Family Hub emergency assistance grants

If you are struggling to find the money to buy food because of COVID-19, the Family Hubs run by Staffordshire Connects are here to help you. For more information, visit:

https://www.staffordshireconnects.info/kb5/staffordshire/directory/service.page?id=X8GSyOF0ADQ

Community safety

This week marks the beginning of Staffordshire Police’s Operation Disrupt, a dedicated operation into tackling those involved in drug crime, cybercrime, child sexual exploitation, modern day slavery, burglary and car thefts. Find out more by watching this video about Operation Disrupt.

Support Staffordshire training dates

Free online behaviour and wellbeing workshops

Meadow grass cutting underway

The Street Scene Team has started the annual meadow grass cutting and they will be cutting all the meadow grass areas owned by the council over the next three weeks. The team started in Perton this week and you can see some pics on the Council’s Facebook page.

Council job vacancies
Enterprise Manager – application information.

Closing date – 5 October 2020.

Benefit Assessment Officer – application information.

Closing date – 9 October 2020.

Next week’s Council Committee/Panel meetings
Your Community Challenge Panel – Monday 28 September 2020 – 4pm – virtual meeting on Teams.
Personal Development Review and Appointments Panel – Wednesday 30 September 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: comms@sstaffs.gov.uk

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

COVID-19 – new measures announced this week

This week, the Prime Minister announced new measures to suppress the virus and keep the number of injections down. The full speech can be found here and the slides accompanying the presentation made by the Government’s Chief Scientific Advisor, Professor Chris Whitty, can be found here.

Click here to view FAQs about what you can and can’t do.

From Monday 14 September in England, the Government is introducing the rule of six. This means that people cannot meet socially in groups of more than six people. This applies in any setting, indoors or outdoors, at home or in the pub. It does not apply to schools and workplaces and COVID-Secure weddings and funerals are exempt as are organised team sports. The ban will be set out in law and will be enforced – for those that don’t comply there will be a £100 fine and fines will double on each offence up to a maximum of £3,200.

Hospitality venues such as pubs and restaurants will need to legally record the contact details of a member of every party and record and retain these details for 21 days and provide them to NHS Test and Trace without delay when required. Fines will be issued against hospitality venues if they don’t do this and if they fail to ensure their premises remain COVID-Secure.

The Government will boost the enforcement capacity of local authorities by introducing COVID Secure Marshalls to help ensure social distancing in town and city centres.

The Prime Minister also announced an alternative plan based around mass testing. The current practice of using testing to identify people who are positive to allow for self-isolation and to protect the community and high-risk groups will continue to be a priority. Future testing will be based around using testing to identify people who are negative i.e. those who do not have COVID-19 and are not infectious This will allow people to behave in a more normal way, in the knowledge they cannot infect anyone else with the virus. New testing is being developed using swabs/saliva that can be processed between 20 and 90 minutes. This approach is being trialled and, if successful, will be rolled out nationally.

Community Hub news and information

Click here to read the latest update about the Community Hub in Codsall, which contains news about the start of construction work and a contractor hoarding line and vehicle movements plan.

World suicide prevention day

This week, World Suicide Prevention Day took place on Thursday. Every year, organisations and communities around the world come together to raise awareness of how we can create a world where fewer people die by suicide. If you’re having suicidal thoughts, it’s important to tell someone. Help and support is available and you do not have to struggle with difficult feelings alone.

Samaritans – for everyone Call 116 123

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – for men Call 0800 58 58 58

Papyrus – for people under 35 Call 0800 068 41 41

Childline – for children and young people under 19 Call 0800 1111

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/suicide/

Locally, we are all working together to help prevent suicide and Staffordshire County Council, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, local hospitals and NHS community services have developed a #TalkSuicide prevention campaign. Click here to find out more.

Leisure Centres update

Wombourne Leisure Centre – Swimming pool access has been increased by opening up family bubble swims to non-members and by increasing lane capacities to three swimmers per lane. The sports hall has also opened to clubs this week and the leisure centre plans to open up for general badminton bookings from Monday 14 September.

Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre – The sports hall is now open to clubs and the leisure centre is planning to open up for general badminton very soon. Unfortunately, the air handling system for the swimming pool has broken and it is anticipated that replacement parts will arrive at the beginning of October. It is hoped that members will be able to access swimming by the middle of October. The roller-skating club is planning to return shortly and the badminton mash-up session restarted on Wednesdays, 7pm to 9pm, but is limited to a maximum of 12 players.

Penkridge Leisure Centre – The Toning Suite opened last week and the leisure centre is planning to reopen the sports hall later this month. Work on the replacement of the roof of the swimming pool has been delayed and will start in mid-September, taking around four to six weeks, so it is hoped to reopen the swimming pool mid to late October.

Codsall Leisure Centre – Staff training is continuing over the weekend and the leisure centre is opening their swimming pool to adult members from Monday 14 September. It’s planned to reopen the sports hall at the end of September, initially to clubs and then to members, and the leisure centre hopes to resume outdoor netball in the next couple of weeks.

New children’s play area helps boost income

This year, car parking ticket sales at Baggeridge Country Park were up by nearly 4,000 visits and income increased by over £10,000 in comparison to figures in Summer 2019. The park has attracted visitors throughout the coronavirus pandemic and a new outdoor children’s play area which opened at the beginning of August has proved a huge success. Click here for more information on this great new facility, which was created and installed by leading playground equipment supplier, KOMPAN.

Challenge Academy shortlisted for award

Challenge Academy, the outdoor adventure experience based at Baggeridge Country Park, has been shortlisted in this year’s Midlands Enterprise Awards, in the ‘Best Outdoor Leisure Attraction – West Midlands’ category. The winners will be announced on Monday 19 October 2020. For more information about Challenge Academy visit www.challengeacademy.co.uk.

Staffordshire History Festival

The annual Staffordshire History Festival, a two-month celebration of local history and cultural heritage in Staffordshire and beyond, is taking place online during September and October 2020. This year’s festival is a virtual programme of informative posts, quizzes, videos, live online events, crafts and activities for children and families and information about how to participate will be posted on Staffordshire Libraries Facebook page during the festival. Click here to follow on Facebook.

There will be focused history days too on Thursdays in September and October including:

The Battle of Britain, for the 80^th anniversary – Thursday 17 September 2020.
The Staffordshire Hoard – Thursday 1 October 2020.
The Home Front and the 1940s house in the Second World War – Thursday 15 October 2020.
Staffordshire History, Heritage and Legends – Thursday 29 October 2020.

COVID-19 essential information

Wash hands, cover face, make space

Please remember the ‘One metre plus’ social distancing rule. This means that where it is not possible for people to stay two metres apart, they should stay one metre apart and take additional measures to protect themselves such as wearing a face covering, increased use of hand sanitiser, sitting side by side rather than face to face, or meeting outdoors to reduce the risk of transmission.

Face coverings – In England, you must wear a face covering by law in a number of indoor settings – click here for more information. Please remember that some people are exempt from wearing a face covering so in settings where face coverings are required, there may be people who are not able to wear a face covering. Please be mindful and respectful of such circumstances. The reasons for this may not be visible to others. Always #BeKind.

NHS test and trace – click here to find out more.

Funding still available – Staffordshire Warm Homes Fund

It’s never too early to prepare for winter and South Staffordshire Council is urging residents to register for the Staffordshire Warm Homes Fund that could save them money on their heating bills. The funding scheme is aimed at residents who are struggling with their heating bills and using expensive electric heaters and open fires. Ten households in South Staffordshire have already benefited from the scheme, which allows residents to switch to gas central heating and funds first time gas connections and the installation of central heating and radiators. Click here for more information or visit www.staffordshirewarmerhomes.co.uk.

Next week’s Council Committee meetings
Cabinet – Tuesday 15 September 2020 – 2pm – virtual meeting on TEAMS.
Planning Committee – Tuesday 15 September 2020 – 6.30pm – 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.

Council job vacancies
Solicitor – click here for more information.

Closing date – Friday 25 September 2020.

Enterprise Manager – click here for more information.

Closing date 5 October 2020.

Win a family forest staycation

Good causes in South Staffordshire need your support and the South Staffordshire Community Lottery is raising funds to help the district recover from the impact of COVID-19. One way you can help is by buying a lottery ticket in this weekly Community Lottery and 60p from every £1 ticket will support local good causes and charities. As well as supporting a good cause you might even win a cash prize ranging from £25 up to a jackpot of £25,000. Our next super draw on 31 October 2020 is coming soon and the prize is a family forest staycation voucher worth £500, redeemable with Forest Holidays. To buy a lottery ticket, simply register on the website www.southstaffslottery.co.uk or telephone 01902 213777.

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

Weekly news update from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

South Staffordshire is #openforbusiness

This week, shops selling non-essential goods started to reopen throughout the district following the relaxation of lockdown restrictions. For everyone the shopping experience is likely to be very different so remember to shop responsibly and observe social distancing guidelines to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus. Shops are limiting the number of people allowed into their stores so sometimes you will have to queue, with posters and markings acting as reminders for everyone to maintain appropriate social distancing and hygiene measures to protect customers and retail staff.

Advice for shoppers:

Do not come to shopping centres only to meet or socialise with others.
If you are suffering with coronavirus symptoms, please self-isolate.
Please wear a face covering and carry hand sanitiser with you whenever you go out.
Use contactless payment whenever possible.
Be respectful of shop staff and other shoppers #BeKind.
Stay at least two metres away from other people.
Only shop in twos if you are a carer for the other person.
Only take children with you if absolutely necessary and ensure they keep close to you at all times.
Do not touch any items that you are not purchasing.
When you have finished your shopping go straight home.
Wash your hands when you get home.

Safety is of paramount importance and over the last few weeks the Council has been advising local retailers about how they can go about reopening safely. The work is supported by the European Regional Development Fund and the Council has visited high streets to help prepare for the reopening, run a series of online webinars and produced a number of helpful resources including a bank of posters and signs to help businesses (www.sstaffs.gov.uk/openforbusiness).

We’re also sharing pics of local businesses in an #openforbusiness campaign on social media. Click here to see the first one promoting Essington Farm Shop.

Local zoo reopening

One local organisation gearing up for reopening is Wild Zoological Park at Halfpenny Green. During the pandemic they have relied on the donations of the public to survive and have raised over £10,000 to help with the feeding and upkeep of the animals. The good news is that they will opening their doors for a ‘soft’ opening on Saturday 20 June 2020 and a general reopening on Saturday 27 June 2020. The number of people onsite each day is restricted and you must book online. For more information, follow them on Facebook or visit www.wildzoo.co.uk.

Next virtual business support session

Is your restaurant, pub or bar ready to re-open safely? The Council’s next virtual business support session on Microsoft Teams is all about the reopening of the hospitality sector so don’t miss this great opportunity to get answers to any of your questions about reopening your hospitality business. This free 30-minute session takes place on Wednesday 24 June 2020 from 8.30am to 9am – click here to register. Please email your questions in advance to h.cooper@sstaffs.gov.uk.

New garden waste collection service starting soon

With just over a week to go, 24,561 permits have now been requested, a sign-up rate of 55.19% of eligible properties in the district. The Council’s new garden waste collection service is scheduled to start on Monday 29 June 2020. You can sign up now at www.sstaffs.gov.uk/gardenwaste or by calling 01902 696000. Click here to find out more.

Warning over test and trace scam Click here to view an example scam message.

These scam messages prompt a person to click a link, before potentially asking them for personal information, or even downloading dangerous viruses to infiltrate their device.
NHS scams have been on the rise during the Coronavirus pandemic and a scam which seeks to exploit the NHS test and trace scheme is the latest in a long line of schemes to target unsuspecting people. The NHS test and trace service seeks to identify those who have developed symptoms of COVID-19, providing them with a test, and reaching out to anyone who may have been in contact with them. The service then aims to notify relevant people that they must self-isolate at home to stop the spread of the virus.

Click here for accurate information about the NHS test and trace service.

Loneliness Awareness Week

This week is Loneliness Awareness Week and Every Mind Matters has put together some simple tips to help you if you’re feeling lonely during the coronavirus outbreak. Click here to find out more.

Food hygiene ratings news

From Monday 15 June 2020, the Council is no longer using the ‘Rate My Place’ website for displaying the food hygiene ratings of local food businesses. Ratings will now be displayed on the Food Standards Agency website at www.food.gov.uk. Click here to go directly to the food hygiene ratings page to find the rating for your favourite food eatery.

Drowning Prevention Week (12-19 June 2020)

Two useful videos to watch feature our Leisure Centres. In 2016, Wombourne Leisure Centre featured on the RLSS website campaign for Rookie Lifeguards (click here to view) and Penkridge Leisure Centre featured on the Swimming Teachers Association promotion for Junior Lifeguard Programme in 2015 (click here to view). If you or your child are interested in either of the programmes mentioned in the videos please email swimcoordinator@sstaffs.gov.uk and when the Council’s swimming pools are allowed to open again we can send you the full details.
This week was Drowning Prevention Week, an annual campaign run by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS) to raise awareness of water safety and give individuals and families the skills and knowledge they required to enjoy the water safely. Every year during the summer months there is a spike in fatal drowning accidents and this year the charity is also concerned about the impact of COVID-19, which has resulted in reduced beach lifeguard services and supervised venues. Click here to access water safety resources on their website and find out how you can recognise the risks and learn what to do to minimise the chance of an accident.

Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives

Click here for updated guidance on walking, cycling, and travelling in vehicles or on public transport during the coronavirus outbreak.

Click here for updated guidance about meeting people from outside your household. Single adult households – adults living alone or single parents with children under 18 – are allowed to form a “support bubble” with one other household. All those in a support bubble will be able to act as if they live in the same household – meaning they can spend time together inside each other’s homes and do not need to stay two metres apart. If any member of the support bubble develops symptoms, all members of the bubble will need to follow the normal advice on household isolation.
Track and trace is now underway and anyone who tests positive for coronavirus will be contacted to help trace any close recent contacts. Any of those contacts deemed at risk of catching the virus will be instructed by the NHS to go into isolation for 14 days. Click here to find out more.

Remember…

Keep your distance from people outside your household and keep two metres apart from others at all times.
Keep your hands and face as clean as possible and avoid touching your face.
Work from home if you can.
Avoid being face-to-face with people if they are outside your household – you can lower the risk of infection if you stay side-to-side rather than facing someone.
Reduce the number of people you spend time with in a work setting.
Avoid crowds.
If you have to travel (for example, to work or school), think about how and when you travel.
Wash your clothes regularly.
Keep indoor places well ventilated.
If you can, wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces where social distancing isn’t possible and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet. From Monday 15 June all passengers on public transport in England must wear a face covering.
Please remember to dispose of your face coverings and disposable gloves responsibly. Worryingly, a growing number of single use PPE items are being littered in parks and dropped on pavements. Please take your rubbish home.
You can book a test by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus and those unable to access the internet can call 119 in England and Wales to book an appointment for a coronavirus test.
While you are at home, it’s still easy to get NHS help using your smartphone, tablet or computer at https://www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/
Domestic abuse can often get worse during times of stress and uncertainty. If you are in an abusive relationship and need help, click here for some useful telephone numbers.

Click here to view frequently asked questions.

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

Latest news from South Staffordshire Council

Last week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

More shops get ready to open

As part of the easing of the COVID-19 lockdown, this week saw the re-opening of outdoor markets including Penkridge Market on Wednesday. From Monday 15 June 2020, non-essential retailers will be able to re-open and work is underway at the Council to help re-open high streets safely. This includes introducing a range of safety measures including practical safety measures such as new signs, street markings and temporary barriers. More information will be available soon so please keep an eye on social media and the Council website.

Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives

Everyone’s actions have helped to reduce the transmission of coronavirus in our communities. As the UK moves to the next phase in our fight against coronavirus, the most important thing we can do is stay alert, control the virus and in doing so, save lives.

Remember…

Track and trace is now underway and anyone who tests positive for coronavirus will be contacted to help trace any close recent contacts. Any of those contacts deemed at risk of catching the virus will be instructed by the NHS to go into isolation for 14 days. Click here to find out more.
Keep your distance from people outside your household and keep two metres apart from others at all times.
Keep your hands and face as clean as possible and avoid touching your face.
Work from home if you can.
Avoid being face-to-face with people if they are outside your household – you can lower the risk of infection if you stay side-to-side rather than facing someone.
Reduce the number of people you spend time with in a work setting.
Avoid crowds.
If you have to travel (for example, to work or school), think about how and when you travel.
Wash your clothes regularly.
Keep indoor places well ventilated.
If you can, wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces where social distancing isn’t possible and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet.
You can book a test by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus and those unable to access the internet can call 119 in England and Wales to book an appointment for a coronavirus test.
While you are at home, it’s still easy to get NHS help using your smartphone, tablet or computer at https://www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/

Click here to view frequently asked questions.

Save water to meet lockdown demand

Please reconsider using your hosepipes and filling paddling pools in this hot weather. Water companies such as Severn Trent and South Staffs Water are struggling to keep up with demand and this is leading to a loss of pressure or even a loss of supply for some residents. There’s plenty of water in the reservoirs at the moment but people are using it faster than the water companies can treat it.

Work starts on new play area

This week, work got underway on the new play area at Baggeridge Country Park. The Council has commissioned leading playground equipment supplier KOMPAN to create and install the new play area, which will offer an enhanced play area for all age groups from toddlers upwards and, most importantly, offer improvements in safety and access for disabled users. Click here to see some pics and follow the Baggeridge Facebook page for the latest updates.

New garden waste collection service attracts 18,000 registrations

With just over three weeks to go until the start of the Council’s garden waste collection service over 18,000 permits have now been requested. The service is scheduled to start on Monday 29 June 2020 but residents need to sign up by Friday 12 June 2020 to guarantee no loss of collections. You can sign up now at www.sstaffs.gov.uk/gardenwaste or by calling 01902 696000. Click here to find out more.

Volunteers’ Week 2020

This week is national Volunteers’ Week, an annual celebration of the contribution that millions of people make across the UK through volunteering. Click here to view a short video from Support Staffordshire, praising the contribution that volunteers make across Staffordshire.

Helping good causes in the district

Good causes in South Staffordshire need your support and the South Staffordshire Community Lottery is raising funds to help the district recover from the impact of COVID-19. One way you can help is by buying a lottery ticket in this weekly Community Lottery and 60p from every £1 ticket will support local good causes and charities. 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.

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

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire Council

Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives

Remember…

Keep your distance from people outside your household and keep two metres apart from others at all times.
Keep your hands and face as clean as possible and avoid touching your face.
Work from home if you can.
Avoid being face-to-face with people if they are outside your household – you can lower the risk of infection if you stay side-to-side rather than facing someone.
Reduce the number of people you spend time with in a work setting.
Avoid crowds.
If you have to travel (for example, to work or school), think about how and when you travel.
Wash your clothes regularly.
Keep indoor places well ventilated.
If you can, wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces where social distancing isn’t possible and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet.
You can book a test by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus and those unable to access the internet can call 119 in England and Wales to book an appointment for a coronavirus test.
While you are at home, it’s still easy to get NHS help using your smartphone, tablet or computer at https://www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/

Click here to view frequently asked questions.

NHS England test and trace system

The national NHS England test and trace system began on Thursday 28 May 2020. From now on, people who test positive for coronavirus will be contacted to help trace any close recent contacts. Any of those contacts deemed at risk of catching the virus will be instructed by the NHS to go into isolation for 14 days. Click here to find out more.

Council’s recovery – Office reopening
As part of the Council’s Recovery Plan for COVID-19, the Council Offices have re-opened to a limited number of staff and tenants. Days are restricted to Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays for staff, with the offices open from 9am to 1pm. From Tuesday, 2 June, a limited number of tenants will also have access. For tenants the offices will initially be open Tuesday through to Friday 9am to 5pm and from Monday, 8 June, the offices will be open Monday through to Friday, 9am to 5pm. As the Government continues to ease the lockdown restrictions, more staff, tenants, Members and the public will be able to gain access to the Council Offices.

Government information on safe working environments can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19, including 5 overarching considerations https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/5-steps-to-working-safely. This guidance forms part of the governments COVID-19 Recovery Strategy which is updated regularly to reflect the easing of lockdown restrictions https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/our-plan-to-rebuild-the-uk-governments-covid-19-recovery-strategy.

Opening of retail establishments

This week, it was also announced that retail establishments and other services for the public will be allowed to open in June 2020 as part of the easing of the COVID-19 lockdown. These include:

From Monday 1 June 2020 – outdoor markets and car showrooms.
From Monday 15 June 2020 – all non-essential retailers.

To support this, the Reopening High Streets Safely Fund is helping councils in England introduce a range of safety measures in a move to get people back to work and customers back to the shops. This funding is to help councils introduce a range of safety measures including practical safety measures such as new signs, street markings and temporary barriers. The Fund is providing £50 million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to councils across England and South Staffordshire Council has been allocated £99,469. More information will be available soon.

Over 14,000 registrations for new garden waste collection service

This week, more residents have signed up for the Council’s garden waste collection service, which is scheduled to start on Monday 29 June 2020. You can sign up now at www.sstaffs.gov.uk/gardenwaste or by calling 01902 696000.

Click here to find out more.

Virtual business support

The Council is holding a free, 30-minute virtual business support session about finances, cashflow and survival budget on Wednesday 3 June 2020. The session will last for 30 minutes and will start at 8.30am. Places can be booked through Eventbrite and the sessions will run through Microsoft Teams. For this session, the Council has partnered with Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and their dedicated business advisor Pete Ball, a business banker for over 25 years. Click here to reserve a place.

£1,000 raised for the NHS

Well done to Tim, an instructor from Wombourne Leisure Centre, who raised £1,063 as a result of his 24-hour cycle last Friday morning. You can continue to donate until the end of this week – click here to donate and click here to see a pic of the man in action. Thank you to everyone for their support and generous donations.

Success story

If you need some inspiration to get fit and lose some weight take a look at this video of Gary Downes, a member of staff at Penkridge Leisure Centre who has lost over seven stone. Click here to view.

And finally…

Even the goats are making an appearance on the social distancing posters at Baggeridge Country Park – click here to view. The park is home to the Bagot Boys and they feature on the latest posters encouraging visitors to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines and keep at least two metres (six ft) away from other people. The park is open but all amenities on site remain closed and car parking capacity is restricted to 50 cars at any one time.

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

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

This week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

Stay Alert, Control the Virus, Save Lives

As coronavirus lockdown restrictions start to ease in England, news was issued this week about the expansion of testing to anyone in the UK who is showing coronavirus symptoms and an additional symptom was added to the list of common symptoms – a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia). You can book a test by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus and those unable to access the internet can call 119 in England and Wales to book an appointment for a coronavirus test.

Remember to maintain social distancing measures this bank holiday weekend and keep at least two metres away from other people to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus. Please follow official advice and here’s a quick summary of key guidance on the www.gov.uk website.

The Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy (click here).
Guidance on social distancing and information about staying alert and staying safe (click here). This guidance applies only in England.
Frequently asked questions: what you can and can’t do (click here).
Guidance for employers to help them get their businesses back up and running and workplaces operating safely (click here) as well as guidance to help ensure workplaces are as safe as possible (click here).
Additional Covid-19 symptoms (click here).
Information on wearing face coverings (click here).

Disposal of PPE

Discarded face coverings and gloves are becoming a widespread issue so please dispose of these items safely. Please throw away any used PPE (gloves and face masks) in residual ‘black bag’ waste at home or at work, or in a litter bin. Please do not place in a recycling bin as they cannot be recycled through conventional facilities. Click here to watch a video by Defra.

Garden waste collection service tops 10,000

Last Monday, telephone registrations started for the Council’s new garden waste collection service, which is scheduled to start on Monday 29 June 2020. So far, 10,000 residents have signed up to the service which is introducing an annual charge for collecting garden waste. Residents can sign up now at www.sstaffs.gov.uk/gardenwaste or by calling 01902 696000.

Click here to find out more.

2,000th food parcel delivered

This week, Staffordshire County Council delivered its 2,000th food parcel. Click here to view a short video showcasing this work.

Introduction of meadow verges

South Staffordshire Council is trialling the introduction of meadow verges in a couple of key areas within the district, in partnership with Staffordshire County Council, Parish Councils and local community groups. By changing our grounds maintenance approach to these areas, the Council hopes to enhance their environmental value for local wildlife and important pollinators such as bees, butterflies and other insects. Click here to find out more.

Virtual business support

The Council is holding a series of free, 30-minute virtual business support sessions to help businesses keep trading through the current COVID-19 pandemic. All sessions last for 30 minutes and will start at 8.30am. Places can be booked through Eventbrite and the sessions will run through Microsoft TEAMs.

Maximising social media to generate new business and managing your finances – Wednesday 27 May 2020.

With Josie Hadley from OMG Marketing. Click here to reserve a place.

Finances, cashflow and survival budget – Wednesday 3 June 2020.

For this session, the Council has partnered with Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and their dedicated business advisor Pete Ball, a business banker for over 25 years.

Click here to reserve a place.

International Learn to Swim Week

This week has also been International Learn to Swim Week. Although the swimming pools are shut and we can’t swim, the Swimming Teachers’ Association (STA) has taken the campaign online and has been promoting water safety with a range of activities for children to do at home including word scrambles, word searches, dot to dots and colouring in sheets. To access the resources, click here.

24-hour spin cycle

Well done to Tim from Wombourne Leisure Centre and his 24-hour spin cycle. So far, Tim has raised just over £571. Click here to donate.

Update on Council services

The last two months have witnessed a fantastic response by Council staff who have repeatedly gone above and beyond to support and help local residents and businesses. Click here to view a video about the Council’s response to coronavirus.

Here’s an update on council services along with an overview of some of the important work being carried out by our teams.

So far, 1,342 applications for Business Grant payments have now been processed, providing £15.325 million of welcome relief for businesses in the district. For more information about business support and how to apply for a small business grant, click here.

All Street Scene work and scheduled waste and recycling collections are continuing to take place as normal. The Council’s bulky waste collection service is also available and can help you get rid of your bulky waste items including sofas, beds, wardrobes and white goods such as fridges, freezers and washing machines. Click here to book online 24/7.

The South Staffordshire COVID-19 helpline is open seven days a week, from 9am to 5pm and will be open over the Bank Holiday weekend. This helpline is available to all residents in the district, providing an essential service for some of our most vulnerable residents and prioritising those over 70 or under 70 with underlying health conditions, self-isolating but with no friends, family or neighbours to help. Please contact the helpline if you need help with collecting prescriptions, shopping, topping up gas or electricity meters, dog walking, or if you’re feeling anxious or lonely and need to talk to someone.

The helpline is open daily, including weekends, 9am to 5pm.

Tel: 01902 696499

Email: Covid-19@sstaffs.gov.uk

Our Environmental Health and Licensing team continues to monitor businesses and compliance with COVID-19 regulations. Over 300 site visits to premises have taken place since the lockdown.

Baggeridge Country Park remains open and we are monitoring it on a daily basis. All amenities on site are closed and visitors are asked to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines and keep at least two metres (six ft) away from other people. Car parking capacity has been increased to 40 cars at any one time. This will be reviewed after the bank holiday weekend.

From Monday 18 May 2020, the two car parks on the Railway Walk re-opened, initially between 10am and 4pm (subject to review). The Council owned fishing pools on the Wyrley Essington Canal Local Nature Reserve also re-opened on Wednesday 13th May in line with national guidance and advice from The Angling Trust.

Strawberry Lane and Sytch Lane Cemeteries remain open daily from 9am to 8pm. Visitors are asked to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines. If you have any queries relating to our cemeteries and funerals please contact us on 01902 696405.

The Leisure Centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne are closed but our team of staff are still helping residents stay active via the internet and social media and sending their best wishes to customers.

South Staffordshire Connect service

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Connect dial-a-ride

service is now focusing on providing shopping services for

vulnerable residents. This shopping service covers all five

localities in the district and is offered to residents registered

with Connect as well as other vulnerable residents who

are struggling to access essential supplies.

For more information, please call 01902 910263.

www.sstaffs.gov.uk/connectbus

Financial advice and assistance

We appreciate that this is a difficult time for many of our residents. If your income has dropped or ceased due to the coronavirus pandemic, you can apply for Universal Credit and other support options such as our Council Tax Support Scheme.

To claim Universal Credit and other benefits, visit www.gov.uk/apply-universal-credit and apply online. The telephone number for the Universal Credit Helpline is 0800 328 5644.

If changes in your income mean you are struggling to pay your Council Tax, then please contact the Council and ask about our special payment plan and Council Tax Support Scheme. This

scheme applies a discount directly to your Council Tax account. The amount of support will depend on your income and personal circumstances and you can apply for support if you own your own home, rent from a social or private landlord, are unemployed or are working.

Tel: 01902 696668 Email benefits@sstaffs.gov.uk

Beware of fraud and cybercrime

We’re continuing to see an escalation in cybercrime and fraud in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police and taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. Please be on your guard and don’t click on links or attachments in suspicious email or text messages. Click here for more information or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.

#YouAreNotAlone

Domestic abuse can often get worse during times of stress and uncertainty. If you are in an abusive relationship and need help, there are a number of organisations who can help and here are some useful telephone numbers.

Call 999 if in immediate danger. If you can’t speak, listen to the operator and, when prompted, dial 55 to connect to the police, who will help.

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 3778 (24 hours)

New Era, a domestic violence abuse service offering help to all those affected by domestic abuse in Staffordshire

Tel: 0300 303 3778

http://www.new-era.uk

Find support at www.gov.uk/domestic-abuse

Useful apps include Hollie Guard, which turns your smartphone into an advanced personal safety device, and Bright Sky, which provides support and information to anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or those concerned about someone they know.

Manage your health and wellbeing at home

While you are at home it’s still easy to get NHS help using your smartphone, tablet or computer and there’s a new Health at Home webpage at https://www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/

This webpage contains information about how to:

Contact your GP.
Order repeat prescriptions.
Manage long-term conditions.
Maintain your mental and physical wellbeing.

If you need to contact your GP, click here to view a useful video.

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

South Staffordshire Council’s Latest News Bulletin

Last week’s news from South Staffordshire Council.

• Update on Council services
The last few weeks have been a challenging time for everyone and our teams are going above and beyond to keep council services running, although sometimes delivered in a slightly different way to ensure social distancing guidelines are followed. We know it is appreciated by residents and thank you for your support and showing your appreciation. Here’s an update on council services along with an overview of some of the important work being carried out by our teams.

o Over 400 applications for Business Grant payments have now been processed, providing almost £5 million of welcomed relief for businesses in the district. Applications are being processed within a couple of days of receipt and the Council has received many compliments from the business community. For more information about business support and how to apply for a small business grant, click here.

o Housing Benefit applications are being processed within 12 calendar days to provide support to those in need in district.

o All Street Scene work and scheduled waste and recycling collections are taking place as normal and if you follow the Council’s Facebook and Twitter social media accounts, you’ll have seen the fantastic response from our residents thanking the crews.

o The South Staffordshire COVID-19 helpline was manned throughout the Easter break and has received over 100 calls so far. This helpline is available to all residents in the district, providing an essential service for some of our most vulnerable residents and prioritising those over 70 or under 70 with underlying health conditions, self-isolating but with no friends, family or neighbours to help. Please contact the helpline if you need help with collecting prescriptions, shopping, topping up gas or electricity meters, dog walking, or if you’re feeling anxious or lonely and need to talk to someone.

The helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Tel: 01902 696499 Email: Covid-19@sstaffs.gov.uk

o Our Environmental Health and Licensing team continues to monitor businesses and compliance with COVID-19 regulations. Over 250 site premise visits have taken place since the lockdown and the team has even rehomed a rescue hedgehog although, unfortunately, he’s run away already.

o Baggeridge Country Park remains open and we are monitoring it on a daily basis. All amenities on site are closed and visitors are asked to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines and keep at least two metres (six ft) away from other people. Car parking capacity has been reduced to 30 cars at any one time.

o Strawberry Lane and Sytch Lane Cemeteries remain open on a daily basis from 9am to 8pm. Again, visitors are asked to abide by the recommended social distancing guidelines. If you have any queries relating to our cemeteries and funerals please contact us on 01902 696405.

o The Leisure Centres in Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne are closed but please follow their Facebook pages for information about activities you can participate in via the internet and social media.

o The Council Offices remain closed. If you have any queries, please email info@sstaffs.gov.uk or telephone 01902 696000.

• Council Plan 2020-2024
The Council’s corporate plan for 2020-2024 has now been approved by Full Council. Entitled ‘Shaping South Staffordshire’s future’, the plan is a very important document as it outlines the strategic direction of the Council and sets out its vision and priorities for the next four years. Its vision will be delivered through two priority areas that are divided into ‘Prosperous Communities’ and ‘Vibrant Communities’. Each priority area has five key objectives and outcomes, and each of these is supported in its delivery by five key themes including financial stability, embracing technology, a flexible and skilled Council, working with our communities, and creating a business and community hub.

Click here to download a copy.

• May PFCC elections postponed
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner elections scheduled to take place on Thursday 7 May 2020 have now been postponed until next year and will take place on Thursday 6 May 2021. Commissioners elected in 2021 will be in office for three years, not the usual four.

• Financial advice and assistance
As a result of the impact of coronavirus, we know some residents may find themselves with reduced levels of income and there are a number of actions we have taken as a council to help residents.

o Council Tax – If you are on a 10-monthly instalment plan, you can amend payments so that they start in June 2020 and end in March 2021. If you are on a 12-montly instalment plan you can agree a flexible payment arrangement where you can pay a reduced amount in April and May 2020 or you can change your payment plan to a 10-montly instalment plan and start paying in June 2020.
o Suspension of debt recovery – The Council will not be undertaking any debt recovery between now and the end of April 2020 and will assess the situation then.

• Beware of fraud and cybercrime
We’re continuing to see an escalation in cybercrime and fraud in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police and taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. Please be on your guard and don’t click on links or attachments in suspicious email or text messages. Click here for more information or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk.

• Domestic abuse – support available
Domestic abuse can often get worse during times of stress and uncertainty. If you are in an abusive relationship and need help, there are a number of organisations who can help and here are some useful telephone numbers.

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 3778 (24 hours)

New Era, a domestic violence abuse service offering help to all those affected by domestic abuse in Staffordshire
Tel: 0300 303 3778

Home

• Stay home to help save lives
Remember to maintain social distancing measures and keep at least two metres away from other people to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus. Right now, the safest place to be is at home. To help reduce the risk of catching or spreading coronavirus, please continue to follow the advice from Public Health England and the NHS.

o Wash your hands more often.
o Use soap and water for 20 seconds.
o Or use hand sanitiser.

Follow official NHS advice at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

• What to do if you have symptoms?
COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus that can affect your lungs and airways. Symptoms include a new, continuous cough, a high temperature (37.8 degrees or higher) and shortness of breath. These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common such as cold and flu.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, self-isolate at home immediately and do not go directly to your GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. If you live alone, self-isolate for seven days and for those with a family it is 14 days. For most people COVID-19 will be a mild illness but there is a need to protect others in your community while you are infectious as older people and others with weakened immune systems or with long-term conditions like diabetes, cancer and chronic lung disease may experience severe illness.

To relieve your symptoms, doctors are advising stay-at-home COVID-19 patients to take whatever they would for a cold such as paracetamol, eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables and drink lots of fluids. If your symptoms worsen during home isolation or are no better after seven days, contact the NHS online coronavirus service at https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19 or call 111 if you cannot get help online.

• Manage your health and wellbeing at home
While you are at home it’s still easy to get NHS help using your smartphone, tablet or computer and there’s a new Health at Home webpage at https://www.nhs.uk/health-at-home/

This webpage contains information about how to:
o Contact your GP.
o Order repeat prescriptions.
o Manage long-term conditions.
o Maintain your mental and physical wellbeing.

If you need to contact your GP, click here to view a useful video..

• Health and wellbeing in the home
A dedicated web page has been created on the Council’s Leisure website where customers and staff can access free online home workouts. The information contains advice and links signposting to other websites such as the NHS as well as links to YouTube channels including videos showcasing some of own instructors delivering sessions. For home workouts click here. We will be extending the list as our instructors continue to develop videos of home workouts.

In addition, this section includes additional pages to support people in general at home with advice on mental health and wellbeing, how to keep children active at home and how to work safely from home. Content is being developed and added all the time so please check back regularly. Click here to view.

• Wombourne Leisure Centre
Click here to view a short video that staff from Wombourne Leisure Centre have created for their customers in attempt to keep everyone smiling.

• Befriending service
If you are feeling lonely or would like someone to talk to, a friendly voice on the other end of the phone is now available. More information is available from Wendy Sutton on 01902 851682 or email w.sutton@sstaffs.gov.uk.

• Songs for you
Well done to Kenyon Walker who is leading virtual singalongs and bringing music to isolating elderly residents with the support of South Staffordshire Council and Care Plus. Click here to find out more and click here for the link to Kenyon’s Facebook page where over 200 people are watching him live every day.

• South Staffordshire Connect service available
The South Staffordshire Connect dial-a-ride bus service is now available.
This local, bookable bus service is once again helping many people
who struggle to get out and about and it is aimed at residents who live
away from regular bus routes or who find it difficult to use a standard
bus. The new Connect service operates between 10am and 3pm to
three zones. For more information, please click on the following for
more information – Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3.

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

Our latest news

Weekly news bulletin from South Staffordshire Council

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

Weekly news update from South Staffordshire Council

Latest news from South Staffordshire Council

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

Weekly news round up from South Staffordshire Council

South Staffordshire Council’s Latest News Bulletin

Wombourne Parish Council, here to serve the local community

Our latest news

Wombourne Parish Council, here to serve the local community

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