Stoke-on-Trent moved to high Covid alert level
Communities in Stoke-on-Trent have been urged to work together and follow the national guidance after it was announced that the city will move to the high Covid alert level of Tier 2 on Saturday 24 October.
Article Jamie Summerfield
Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced in the House of Commons that changes had been agreed in partnership with local leaders after Stoke-on-Trent had seen its weekly infection rate increase to 210 cases per 100,000 population.
The announcement from the Government followed a request from the city council to move to the high level following the sharp increase in cases over the last 10 days. The high alert level means people in Stoke-on-Trent:
● Must not meet with anybody outside their household or support bubble in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place
● Must not meet in a group of more than six outside, including in a garden or other space
● Should aim to reduce the number of journeys they make where possible. If they need to travel, they should walk or cycle where possible, or plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes on public transport.
You can see full details of the Covid alert level restrictions on the Government website (www.gov.uk/guidance/local-covid-alert-levels-what-you-need-to-know).
The exact figures for the seven-day Covid infection rate in the city currently stands at 221.2 per 100,000 people, with 100 new cases reported yesterday and a “significant increase” in the number of patients with Covid in hospital.
‘Stop the spread’
Cllr Abi Brown, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “It is clear recognition of the severity of the situation. Cases have risen exponentially and we need to take decisive action to do all we can to stop the spread in Stoke-on-Trent. We understand that the move to the high alert level may affect people’s lives and businesses and we understand the very strong feelings about this. Additional funding support has been announced today to help businesses in the city. We have an overriding duty of care to the people of Stoke-on-Trent, and we firmly believe this is the best route to minimise disruptions, to save lives and to protect businesses.”
The University Hospitals North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM), which runs Stafford County and Royal Stoke hospitals, recently reported that it was caring for 94 people with Covid across both sites.
‘Everyone needs to take action now’
Michelle Rhodes, the trust’s director of infection prevention and control, said: “We’ve seen a significant increase in admissions for patients who are Covid-19 positive, particularly during the last seven to 10 days. It’s no secret that, as infection rates rise, so do hospital admissions. That’s why it’s really important that everyone takes action now to prevent more people getting sick and dying from this disease and that our local communities work together and follow the national guidance, especially by washing their hands, covering their face and keeping two metres apart. Remember: hands, face, space.”
On the same day that the Government announced that Stoke-on-Trent was move to the high Covid alert level, Chancellor Rishi Sunak unveiled extra financial support for businesses. Under the revised Job Support Scheme, which will replace furlough in November, employers will pay less and staff can work fewer hours before they qualify. At the same time, the taxpayer subsidy has been doubled.
Businesses in Stoke-on-Trent can find out more at www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support
Babababoon reported on 14 October that Stoke-on-Trent residents are now eligible for a support payment of £500 if they are told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace.
