Aylesbury Vale District Council and Buckinghamshire County Council updates
News from Buckinghamshire Council
PR 10992
26 March 2020
APPROVED for Immediate Release
Buckinghamshire Councils lift all parking charges and restrictions to support communities during Coronavirus outbreak
All council car park charges and on-street parking restrictions have been lifted today across Buckinghamshire.
The five existing councils have taken the unprecedented step to help support communities, key workers and volunteers during the Coronavirus outbreak.
The changes will mean all council car parks across the county will be completely free to use and all parking restrictions lifted. This includes parking on yellow lines, limited waiting areas and in pay and display bays. Residents permits will also be extended by a month. Restrictions on disabled parking will however remain in force.
Parking officers will continue patrolling the main routes, car parks, and residential areas to help deal with any obstructions to support emergency services, key workers, essential food deliveries and residents.
If any vehicle does cause an obstruction, officers will attempt to locate the owner via the permits database so that the vehicle can be moved to a safer place. If owners can't be located, vehicles will be towed to the nearest safe position. This will only be used as a last resort and will be to relocate vehicles, not remove them completely.
Leader of Buckinghamshire's Shadow Executive, Martin Tett said the new measures were sensible and appropriate given the circumstances. "With most people working from home, parking is at a premium, so this gives everyone more flexibility and should help keep routes clear. If you live near to a council car park, please feel free to use it if it's suitable.
"It should also make it easier for those key workers and volunteers who need to get around to help those most vulnerable in our communities."
Martin added: "My only plea to motorists is to park sensibly and safely for the benefit of everyone and maintain social distancing. If we all pull together and use our common-sense, we can make a huge difference for those needing to get around in these testing and difficult times."
These changes will be regularly reviewed and may be amended in line with further government guidance.
Some car parks are closed overnight, so please check the following links for further details. Specific questions or queries can be sent to the relevant area e-mail addresses.
Aylesbury Area
https://www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/section/car-parks
Email: parking.ay@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Chiltern Area
https://www.chiltern.gov.uk/carparks
Email: parking.csb@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
South Bucks Area
https://www.southbucks.gov.uk/carparks
Email: parking.csb@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Wycombe Area
https://www.wycombe.gov.uk/pages/Parking-and-transport/Parking/Car-park-map.aspx
Email: parking.wyc@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
For information regarding on street parking, please contact parkingqueries@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
For assistance and the latest advice on coronavirus, please visit www.gov.uk/coronavirus
PR 10992
26 March 2020
APPROVED for Immediate Release
Buckinghamshire Councils lift all parking charges and restrictions to support communities during Coronavirus outbreak
All council car park charges and on-street parking restrictions have been lifted today across Buckinghamshire.
The five existing councils have taken the unprecedented step to help support communities, key workers and volunteers during the Coronavirus outbreak.
The changes will mean all council car parks across the county will be completely free to use and all parking restrictions lifted. This includes parking on yellow lines, limited waiting areas and in pay and display bays. Residents permits will also be extended by a month. Restrictions on disabled parking will however remain in force.
Parking officers will continue patrolling the main routes, car parks, and residential areas to help deal with any obstructions to support emergency services, key workers, essential food deliveries and residents.
If any vehicle does cause an obstruction, officers will attempt to locate the owner via the permits database so that the vehicle can be moved to a safer place. If owners can't be located, vehicles will be towed to the nearest safe position. This will only be used as a last resort and will be to relocate vehicles, not remove them completely.
Leader of Buckinghamshire's Shadow Executive, Martin Tett said the new measures were sensible and appropriate given the circumstances. "With most people working from home, parking is at a premium, so this gives everyone more flexibility and should help keep routes clear. If you live near to a council car park, please feel free to use it if it's suitable.
"It should also make it easier for those key workers and volunteers who need to get around to help those most vulnerable in our communities."
Martin added: "My only plea to motorists is to park sensibly and safely for the benefit of everyone and maintain social distancing. If we all pull together and use our common-sense, we can make a huge difference for those needing to get around in these testing and difficult times."
These changes will be regularly reviewed and may be amended in line with further government guidance.
Some car parks are closed overnight, so please check the following links for further details. Specific questions or queries can be sent to the relevant area e-mail addresses.
Aylesbury Area
https://www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/section/car-parks
Email: parking.ay@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Chiltern Area
https://www.chiltern.gov.uk/carparks
Email: parking.csb@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
South Bucks Area
https://www.southbucks.gov.uk/carparks
Email: parking.csb@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Wycombe Area
https://www.wycombe.gov.uk/pages/Parking-and-transport/Parking/Car-park-map.aspx
Email: parking.wyc@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
For information regarding on street parking, please contact parkingqueries@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
For assistance and the latest advice on coronavirus, please visit www.gov.uk/coronavirus
Buckinghamshire Council - Changes to our services due to coronavirus 23rd March 2020
Visit NHS.UK for health information and advice about coronavirus or find specific local and national coronavirus guidance.
While we deal with the current outbreak of Covid-19, some council services may be affected. The most up-to-date information on each area is below:
Getting help or volunteering in Buckinghamshire
If you are at home and need additional help or wish to volunteer to help in your community, visit our community support hub.
Support for local businesses
Businesses in Buckinghamshire are being encouraged to make contact with Buckinghamshire Business First who are able to provide advice and support.
Schools
Find information about any school or other educational centre closures
Advice for educational settings is available on Buckinghamshire Schoolsweb.
School transport
Please see School transport FAQs for parents and School transport FAQs for suppliers
Transport
Latest on public transport including buses and concessionary passes
Changes to our services due to coronavirus
Visit NHS.UK for health information and advice about coronavirus or find specific local and national coronavirus guidance.
While we deal with the current outbreak of Covid-19, some council services may be affected. The most up-to-date information on each area is below:
Getting help or volunteering in Buckinghamshire
If you are at home and need additional help or wish to volunteer to help in your community, visit our community support hub.
Support for local businesses
Businesses in Buckinghamshire are being encouraged to make contact with Buckinghamshire Business First who are able to provide advice and support.
Schools
Find information about any school or other educational centre closures
Advice for educational settings is available on Buckinghamshire Schoolsweb.
School transport
Please see School transport FAQs for parents and School transport FAQs for suppliers
Transport
Latest on public transport including buses and concessionary passes
Libraries
The main county libraries are currently remaining open but with some changes to book borrowing, collections, and payment of fines.
Physical borrowing is now suspended.
Visit the libraries service status page for full details of the changes
Waste services (all districts)
Waste services are currently operating with a reduced number of staff. We are working hard to minimise any disruption and will prioritise refuse collections, food waste collections and clinical waste collections.
Visit the waste services status page for full details of the changes
Country parks
All the county parks will remain open as normal - the sites are large open spaces where visitors will be able to maintain social distancing.
In light of the current situation, parking charges have been temporarily suspended at all our sites until further notice.
Season ticket holders will be automatically compensated with additional time added to their passes when they are renewed.
Visit the Country parks website for more information
Fostering
Fostering Information Events are on hold for the time being. If you were planning to come to our event on Thursday 19 March in Aylesbury we’d like instead to offer you an appointment using either Skype, Facetime or a 1-1 phone call with a member of the fostering recruitment team. They will be happy to give you all the information you would receive at the events and will answer any questions you may have.
We will always need foster carers to come forward and are still here to talk to anyone considering fostering. Please do get in touch with the fostering team.
Visit our fostering pages for more information
Leisure centres
Council-operated leisure centres in Buckinghamshire will be closing for the foreseeable future following government instructions to close all leisure facilities in the UK, in light of COVID-19 (coronavirus). For more information see ourLeisure Centres updates page
Centre for Buckinghamshire Studies
The centre is now closed to public access for the foreseeable future.
However, we are still open for remote enquiries via archives@buckscc.gov.uk and 01296 382 587.
Coroners service
The Coroner Service and Court is now closed to the public. All Inquests due to be heard between Monday, 23 March and Monday, 27 April have been postponed and will be rescheduled.
The Coroner Service continues to operate as normal and can be contacted between 8am and 4pm Monday to Friday on 01494 475505 or via coroners@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
WhizzFizzFest
WhizzFizzFest on 27 June has been cancelled; we will let you know when we have more information about rescheduling this event or refunding tickets.
Update on the Coronavirus outbreak from Buckinghamshire Councils – a letter from Shadow Executive Leader Martin Tett
I would like to update you on what we are doing across the councils in Buckinghamshire in response to Coronavirus, what you can do to protect yourself and others, and how you can become involved in supporting your community.
Firstly, my thoughts are with all people in Buckinghamshire who have been negatively impacted in any way by this crisis. These are difficult and very challenging times. This makes it even more important that we come together to support each other. We’re already seeing so much fantastic work going on across the county.
The current situation will no doubt test and stretch our ability, but the council is committed to providing community leadership and support wherever possible.
What are we doing?
The Coronavirus outbreak is of deep concern to everyone in Buckinghamshire. We are working together, across all the councils in Buckinghamshire, with Public Health England and the Department for Health and Social Care to tackle the Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak to support our residents, communities, businesses and schools during this difficult time.
We are closely following government guidance to provide accurate and up to date information. We are well-prepared for these situations and have robust plans in place to focus on keeping essential services running to look after our elderly, the most vulnerable, children, and safeguard local communities.
As the impact of Coronavirus increases, we may need to make some temporary changes to some services. This is so we can protect people from infection and use our staff and resources where they are most needed. It is important that we communicate any changes to residents and ongoing engagement with communities will be a priority. Information about any service changes will be released to the press and published on our website www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk.
We know that some of you will still want to get in touch face to face so, for now, we are keeping our main libraries and council offices open to answer your questions and provide advice. You can see which libraries are open at www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/libraries
We are also keeping our country parks open with no parking charges so you can get out for some fresh air and stay healthy.
How can you help?
It’s crucial at times like this that everyone pulls together. In Bucks we are proud of our local communities and the voluntary and community work they do. I am truly humbled by the number of people and organisations coming forward and volunteering to help others in their towns and villages.
We know people, particularly if they are in isolation, are going to need support with practical things like getting medicines, doing grocery shopping, or caring for beloved pets, as well as dealing with the mental effects. The voluntary and community sectors will have a key role to play in supporting people.
If you are healthy and looking at ways you can help, take a look at our central community hub. This can be found on our new website atwww.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus
We are also looking for people with skills. Visit our website and complete the ‘I want to be involved’ form at www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus
If you are a vulnerable or older person who is self-isolating, or know of someone who needs help get in touch with us; visit www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus
What you can do to protect yourself and others
It’s everyone’s responsibility to make sure we are doing everything we can to protect ourselves, our families and others around us.
1. Try to stay calm – be prepared and plan for the self-isolation of yourself or others but avoid panic buying so that others are not faced with empty shelves. Supermarkets inform us that there are no shortages. I have written today to all the major supermarket companies in Bucks asking them to offer priority personal and online shopping to the elderly and key vulnerable groups.
2. Stay healthy – there are lots of ways to stay healthy. Get outside and go for a walk in one on our country parks or visit National Trust parks for freebut do maintain a safe distance from other people.
3. Be alert to the symptoms and follow the government guidance - maintain good hygiene, reduce non-essential contact and stay at home if you have either:
• A high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
• A new continuous cough – this means you’ve started coughing repeatedly
It is particularly important for people who are over 70, have an underlying health condition or are pregnant to follow this advice as much as possible.
Find out more here: www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus.
Support our NHS
If you are worried about your symptoms it is important that you do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. This could spread the infection and put our doctors and health services at risk.
Go to https://111.nhs.uk/ or if you cannot go online call 111. This is so we can keep phone lines free for those who need it most.
The government have also advised that testing for Coronavirus is not needed if you are staying at home. You do not need to contact 111 to tell them you are staying at home, but if you are concerned about your symptoms and need urgent medical help call 999.
Keep up to date
Advice is changing all the time. There is a lot of information being shared about Coronavirus. There is a lot of misleading or even ‘fake news’, particularly online.
Make sure the information you are following is from a trusted source - the government, NHS or Public Health England. For local information follow our social
media via the twitter handle @BucksCouncil and keep an eye on our webpage www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus.
We are also writing to our vulnerable and older people who use our services to make sure they have the information they need to stay safe and well.
Supporting Bucks businesses
I am aware that Buckinghamshire is a county of many businesses from the very large to the very small. These are very difficult times for companies and the many people who work for them.
We are channelling support through the local Buckinghamshire business ‘hub’,Bucks Business First (BBF), as details are confirmed.
If you are a company who wants advice on current local or government support, such as that announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, find out more via BBF at www.bbf.uk.com/covid-19.
The new Buckinghamshire Council
The government's postponement of local elections until May 2021 will not stop the launch of the new Buckinghamshire Council. All five existing councils will be replaced by the one, new Buckinghamshire Council on 1 April. Plans for this are well advanced and we are already working together as one team to respond to the Coronavirus outbreak.
Lastly, I am also immensely proud of the dedication of all the staff in our local councils, NHS, social care, police and other key services who are continuing to work tirelessly to keep people safe and secure. I would like to pass on my thanks for everyone’s work in these unprecedented times.
Martin Tett Leader of the Shadow Executive
For further information please contact: Claire Perry, on 01296 382444 or out of hours on 07825430978
Visit NHS.UK for health information and advice about coronavirus or find specific local and national coronavirus guidance.
While we deal with the current outbreak of Covid-19, some council services may be affected. The most up-to-date information on each area is below:
Getting help or volunteering in Buckinghamshire
If you are at home and need additional help or wish to volunteer to help in your community, visit our community support hub.
Support for local businesses
Businesses in Buckinghamshire are being encouraged to make contact with Buckinghamshire Business First who are able to provide advice and support.
Schools
Find information about any school or other educational centre closures
Advice for educational settings is available on Buckinghamshire Schoolsweb.
School transport
Please see School transport FAQs for parents and School transport FAQs for suppliers
Transport
Latest on public transport including buses and concessionary passes
Changes to our services due to coronavirus
Visit NHS.UK for health information and advice about coronavirus or find specific local and national coronavirus guidance.
While we deal with the current outbreak of Covid-19, some council services may be affected. The most up-to-date information on each area is below:
Getting help or volunteering in Buckinghamshire
If you are at home and need additional help or wish to volunteer to help in your community, visit our community support hub.
Support for local businesses
Businesses in Buckinghamshire are being encouraged to make contact with Buckinghamshire Business First who are able to provide advice and support.
Schools
Find information about any school or other educational centre closures
Advice for educational settings is available on Buckinghamshire Schoolsweb.
School transport
Please see School transport FAQs for parents and School transport FAQs for suppliers
Transport
Latest on public transport including buses and concessionary passes
Libraries
The main county libraries are currently remaining open but with some changes to book borrowing, collections, and payment of fines.
Physical borrowing is now suspended.
Visit the libraries service status page for full details of the changes
Waste services (all districts)
Waste services are currently operating with a reduced number of staff. We are working hard to minimise any disruption and will prioritise refuse collections, food waste collections and clinical waste collections.
Visit the waste services status page for full details of the changes
Country parks
All the county parks will remain open as normal - the sites are large open spaces where visitors will be able to maintain social distancing.
In light of the current situation, parking charges have been temporarily suspended at all our sites until further notice.
Season ticket holders will be automatically compensated with additional time added to their passes when they are renewed.
Visit the Country parks website for more information
Fostering
Fostering Information Events are on hold for the time being. If you were planning to come to our event on Thursday 19 March in Aylesbury we’d like instead to offer you an appointment using either Skype, Facetime or a 1-1 phone call with a member of the fostering recruitment team. They will be happy to give you all the information you would receive at the events and will answer any questions you may have.
We will always need foster carers to come forward and are still here to talk to anyone considering fostering. Please do get in touch with the fostering team.
Visit our fostering pages for more information
Leisure centres
Council-operated leisure centres in Buckinghamshire will be closing for the foreseeable future following government instructions to close all leisure facilities in the UK, in light of COVID-19 (coronavirus). For more information see ourLeisure Centres updates page
Centre for Buckinghamshire Studies
The centre is now closed to public access for the foreseeable future.
However, we are still open for remote enquiries via archives@buckscc.gov.uk and 01296 382 587.
Coroners service
The Coroner Service and Court is now closed to the public. All Inquests due to be heard between Monday, 23 March and Monday, 27 April have been postponed and will be rescheduled.
The Coroner Service continues to operate as normal and can be contacted between 8am and 4pm Monday to Friday on 01494 475505 or via coroners@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
WhizzFizzFest
WhizzFizzFest on 27 June has been cancelled; we will let you know when we have more information about rescheduling this event or refunding tickets.
Update on the Coronavirus outbreak from Buckinghamshire Councils – a letter from Shadow Executive Leader Martin Tett
I would like to update you on what we are doing across the councils in Buckinghamshire in response to Coronavirus, what you can do to protect yourself and others, and how you can become involved in supporting your community.
Firstly, my thoughts are with all people in Buckinghamshire who have been negatively impacted in any way by this crisis. These are difficult and very challenging times. This makes it even more important that we come together to support each other. We’re already seeing so much fantastic work going on across the county.
The current situation will no doubt test and stretch our ability, but the council is committed to providing community leadership and support wherever possible.
What are we doing?
The Coronavirus outbreak is of deep concern to everyone in Buckinghamshire. We are working together, across all the councils in Buckinghamshire, with Public Health England and the Department for Health and Social Care to tackle the Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak to support our residents, communities, businesses and schools during this difficult time.
We are closely following government guidance to provide accurate and up to date information. We are well-prepared for these situations and have robust plans in place to focus on keeping essential services running to look after our elderly, the most vulnerable, children, and safeguard local communities.
As the impact of Coronavirus increases, we may need to make some temporary changes to some services. This is so we can protect people from infection and use our staff and resources where they are most needed. It is important that we communicate any changes to residents and ongoing engagement with communities will be a priority. Information about any service changes will be released to the press and published on our website www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk.
We know that some of you will still want to get in touch face to face so, for now, we are keeping our main libraries and council offices open to answer your questions and provide advice. You can see which libraries are open at www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/libraries
We are also keeping our country parks open with no parking charges so you can get out for some fresh air and stay healthy.
How can you help?
It’s crucial at times like this that everyone pulls together. In Bucks we are proud of our local communities and the voluntary and community work they do. I am truly humbled by the number of people and organisations coming forward and volunteering to help others in their towns and villages.
We know people, particularly if they are in isolation, are going to need support with practical things like getting medicines, doing grocery shopping, or caring for beloved pets, as well as dealing with the mental effects. The voluntary and community sectors will have a key role to play in supporting people.
If you are healthy and looking at ways you can help, take a look at our central community hub. This can be found on our new website atwww.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus
We are also looking for people with skills. Visit our website and complete the ‘I want to be involved’ form at www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus
If you are a vulnerable or older person who is self-isolating, or know of someone who needs help get in touch with us; visit www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus
What you can do to protect yourself and others
It’s everyone’s responsibility to make sure we are doing everything we can to protect ourselves, our families and others around us.
1. Try to stay calm – be prepared and plan for the self-isolation of yourself or others but avoid panic buying so that others are not faced with empty shelves. Supermarkets inform us that there are no shortages. I have written today to all the major supermarket companies in Bucks asking them to offer priority personal and online shopping to the elderly and key vulnerable groups.
2. Stay healthy – there are lots of ways to stay healthy. Get outside and go for a walk in one on our country parks or visit National Trust parks for freebut do maintain a safe distance from other people.
3. Be alert to the symptoms and follow the government guidance - maintain good hygiene, reduce non-essential contact and stay at home if you have either:
• A high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
• A new continuous cough – this means you’ve started coughing repeatedly
It is particularly important for people who are over 70, have an underlying health condition or are pregnant to follow this advice as much as possible.
Find out more here: www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus.
Support our NHS
If you are worried about your symptoms it is important that you do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. This could spread the infection and put our doctors and health services at risk.
Go to https://111.nhs.uk/ or if you cannot go online call 111. This is so we can keep phone lines free for those who need it most.
The government have also advised that testing for Coronavirus is not needed if you are staying at home. You do not need to contact 111 to tell them you are staying at home, but if you are concerned about your symptoms and need urgent medical help call 999.
Keep up to date
Advice is changing all the time. There is a lot of information being shared about Coronavirus. There is a lot of misleading or even ‘fake news’, particularly online.
Make sure the information you are following is from a trusted source - the government, NHS or Public Health England. For local information follow our social
media via the twitter handle @BucksCouncil and keep an eye on our webpage www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus.
We are also writing to our vulnerable and older people who use our services to make sure they have the information they need to stay safe and well.
Supporting Bucks businesses
I am aware that Buckinghamshire is a county of many businesses from the very large to the very small. These are very difficult times for companies and the many people who work for them.
We are channelling support through the local Buckinghamshire business ‘hub’,Bucks Business First (BBF), as details are confirmed.
If you are a company who wants advice on current local or government support, such as that announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, find out more via BBF at www.bbf.uk.com/covid-19.
The new Buckinghamshire Council
The government's postponement of local elections until May 2021 will not stop the launch of the new Buckinghamshire Council. All five existing councils will be replaced by the one, new Buckinghamshire Council on 1 April. Plans for this are well advanced and we are already working together as one team to respond to the Coronavirus outbreak.
Lastly, I am also immensely proud of the dedication of all the staff in our local councils, NHS, social care, police and other key services who are continuing to work tirelessly to keep people safe and secure. I would like to pass on my thanks for everyone’s work in these unprecedented times.
Martin Tett Leader of the Shadow Executive
For further information please contact: Claire Perry, on 01296 382444 or out of hours on 07825430978
Coronavirus update from Buckinghamshire County Council: 05 March 2020
I am writing to reassure you that Buckinghamshire County Council is working closely with the NHS and Public Health England (PHE) in order to be prepared to deal with the new Coronavirus COVID-19.
Buckinghamshire County Council and the NHS have put in place measures to ensure the availability of services to local people and protect staff
I would like to ask you to share the following important information in your organisation or network. We will issue further communications when appropriate.
Hand washing - The most important thing that everyone can do as an individual is follow NHS advice on handwashing. This means washing your hands more frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This video shows the best way to wash your hands.
New poster – please help us inform others by displaying the attached poster in your workplaces, public areas or in publications
NHS 111 has an online coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do. Use this service if:
· you think you might have coronavirus;
· in the last 14 days you've been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus;
· you've been in close contact with someone with coronavirus.
Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Contact 111 if you need to speak to someone
Travel risk - The latest information about Coronovirus symptoms and areas of travel risk can be found onnhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
General advice - Like the common cold, coronavirus infection usually occurs through close contact with an infected person via cough, sneeze or hand contact. You can also catch the virus by touching contaminated surfaces if you do not wash your hands afterwards.
Everyone is being reminded to follow Public Health England advice to:
· Always carry tissues with you and use them to catch your cough or sneeze. Then bin the tissue, and wash your hands, or use a sanitiser gel.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport. Use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
· Avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
I am writing to reassure you that Buckinghamshire County Council is working closely with the NHS and Public Health England (PHE) in order to be prepared to deal with the new Coronavirus COVID-19.
Buckinghamshire County Council and the NHS have put in place measures to ensure the availability of services to local people and protect staff
I would like to ask you to share the following important information in your organisation or network. We will issue further communications when appropriate.
Hand washing - The most important thing that everyone can do as an individual is follow NHS advice on handwashing. This means washing your hands more frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This video shows the best way to wash your hands.
New poster – please help us inform others by displaying the attached poster in your workplaces, public areas or in publications
NHS 111 has an online coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do. Use this service if:
· you think you might have coronavirus;
· in the last 14 days you've been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus;
· you've been in close contact with someone with coronavirus.
Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Contact 111 if you need to speak to someone
Travel risk - The latest information about Coronovirus symptoms and areas of travel risk can be found onnhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
General advice - Like the common cold, coronavirus infection usually occurs through close contact with an infected person via cough, sneeze or hand contact. You can also catch the virus by touching contaminated surfaces if you do not wash your hands afterwards.
Everyone is being reminded to follow Public Health England advice to:
· Always carry tissues with you and use them to catch your cough or sneeze. Then bin the tissue, and wash your hands, or use a sanitiser gel.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport. Use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
· Avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
What is the coronavirus?
The 2019 Novel Coronavirus has been spreading since it was first reported in December 2019.
Current evidence is that most cases appear to be mild; symptoms include fever and respiratory symptoms including coughing and shortness of breath. Generally, coronavirus can cause more severe symptoms in people with weakened immune systems, older people, and those with long term conditions like diabetes, cancer and chronic lung disease. You should treat symptoms as you would seasonal flu or a common cold, if you feel unwell and do not know what you should do, then call NHS 111.
After foreign travel what should you do?If you have arrived back in the UK from Hubei or Wuhan Province (where the disease originated) you must:
If you have arrived back to the UK within the last 14 days from other parts of China, Thailand, Japan, Republic of Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia or Macau and develop a cough, fever or shortness of breath, please immediately:
If you are returning from a country other than Hubei or Wuhan Province and aren’t experiencing any symptoms then you can go about your day as normal.
To prevent the spread of the infection and protect yourself please follow this advice:
How do I know if I’ve been in contact with a case?Public Health England will contact people who have had close contact with the confirmed cases.
Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed case. This tried and tested method will ensure any risk to them and the wider public is minimised.
Where can I find more information?
The 2019 Novel Coronavirus has been spreading since it was first reported in December 2019.
Current evidence is that most cases appear to be mild; symptoms include fever and respiratory symptoms including coughing and shortness of breath. Generally, coronavirus can cause more severe symptoms in people with weakened immune systems, older people, and those with long term conditions like diabetes, cancer and chronic lung disease. You should treat symptoms as you would seasonal flu or a common cold, if you feel unwell and do not know what you should do, then call NHS 111.
After foreign travel what should you do?If you have arrived back in the UK from Hubei or Wuhan Province (where the disease originated) you must:
- Stay indoors and avoid contact with others.
- You must also call the NHS 111 service to inform them of your recent travel to the area.
If you have arrived back to the UK within the last 14 days from other parts of China, Thailand, Japan, Republic of Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia or Macau and develop a cough, fever or shortness of breath, please immediately:
- Stay indoors and avoid contact with other people, just as you would do with the flu.
- Call NHS 111 to inform them of your recent travel and symptoms.
If you are returning from a country other than Hubei or Wuhan Province and aren’t experiencing any symptoms then you can go about your day as normal.
To prevent the spread of the infection and protect yourself please follow this advice:
- Always carry tissues and use them to catch coughs and sneezes, then bin the tissue.
- Wash your hands with soap and water, or use sanitiser gel, to kill germs.
How do I know if I’ve been in contact with a case?Public Health England will contact people who have had close contact with the confirmed cases.
Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed case. This tried and tested method will ensure any risk to them and the wider public is minimised.
Where can I find more information?
- Information for the public: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/wuhan-novel-coronavirus-information-for-the-public
- Blog and frequently asked questions: https://publichealthmatters.blog.gov.uk/2020/01/23/wuhan-novel-coronavirus-what-you-need-to-know/
- Travel advice for those travelling and living overseas: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus
Could you be a good neighbour this winter?
Looking out for neighbours who are elderly or frail is something everyone can do which can make an enormous difference to older people who may live alone, or are vulnerable in the colder winter months.
Supporting one another in our local communities is also an important way to help the NHS, social services, voluntary groups and others to keep our older residents safe and well.
Dr Dal Sahota, a local GP and Director of Unplanned Acute Care for Buckinghamshire Clinical Commissioning Group said:
“As the cold weather kicks in, many elderly and vulnerable residents can feel trapped and unable to get out to the shops or even to their GP if they have a problem. Offering to collect their medication or fetch some shopping can be a great help and help prevent the risk of a fall.
"We can all do our bit to help our neighbours stay safe and well this winter.”
Councillor Lin Hazell, Buckinghamshire County Council Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:
“There is a great deal goodwill in our communities, but I would like to remind people of some simple actions they can take which may help a vulnerable or older person to stay at home rather than risk ending up in hospital.
"Small things such as making time for a chat, or popping round to see if they are ok can make such a difference. Loneliness and isolation is really miserable and damaging to someone’s mental health, but being a Good Neighbour is good for everyone – especially at this time of year.”
If you want to help your elderly or frail neighbours but are not sure how, just follow this easy five point guide to #BeAGoodNeighbour:
If you need to speak to someone urgently about a vulnerable adult, contact the Adult Social Care Team on 01296 383 204 or outside office hours: 0800 999 7677.
Looking out for neighbours who are elderly or frail is something everyone can do which can make an enormous difference to older people who may live alone, or are vulnerable in the colder winter months.
Supporting one another in our local communities is also an important way to help the NHS, social services, voluntary groups and others to keep our older residents safe and well.
Dr Dal Sahota, a local GP and Director of Unplanned Acute Care for Buckinghamshire Clinical Commissioning Group said:
“As the cold weather kicks in, many elderly and vulnerable residents can feel trapped and unable to get out to the shops or even to their GP if they have a problem. Offering to collect their medication or fetch some shopping can be a great help and help prevent the risk of a fall.
"We can all do our bit to help our neighbours stay safe and well this winter.”
Councillor Lin Hazell, Buckinghamshire County Council Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:
“There is a great deal goodwill in our communities, but I would like to remind people of some simple actions they can take which may help a vulnerable or older person to stay at home rather than risk ending up in hospital.
"Small things such as making time for a chat, or popping round to see if they are ok can make such a difference. Loneliness and isolation is really miserable and damaging to someone’s mental health, but being a Good Neighbour is good for everyone – especially at this time of year.”
If you want to help your elderly or frail neighbours but are not sure how, just follow this easy five point guide to #BeAGoodNeighbour:
- Say 'hello' – surely nobody is too busy for the most basic friendly contact which is vital for our general wellbeing.
- Ask - not everyone will ask for help, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need it, so make the first move and ask if there is anything they need.
- Medicines –check that they have supplies of their regular prescription medicine, especially when the weather is bad, offer to collect them from the pharmacy.
- Shopping - in very cold or icy conditions it’s safer for older folk to stay indoors. Why not offer to pop out to the shops for them when picking up your own groceries – and stay for a cuppa and a chat
- Know the signs that they may need help - not seen a neighbour for a while? Are their curtains always drawn? Is milk still on the door step or mail in the door? They may need help, so don’t wait - pop round and check if they are ok.
If you need to speak to someone urgently about a vulnerable adult, contact the Adult Social Care Team on 01296 383 204 or outside office hours: 0800 999 7677.
News from Buckinghamshire County Council
PR 10679
29 August 2019
APPROVED for Immediate Release
It’s safe to talk about suicide – have a conversation, it could save a life
People across Buckinghamshire are being invited to light a candle and place it near a window at 8pm on Tuesday 10 September, which is World Suicide Prevention Day, to show their support for suicide prevention, to remember a lost loved one, and to support the survivors of suicide.
Local organisations including the County Council, NHS, Mind and local charities, and other partners are coming together to support World Suicide Prevention Day. Their message is that if you’re worried about someone’s wellbeing or think they may not be OK, it’s safe to talk to them about suicide.
Why do we need to talk about suicide?
Gareth Williams, Cabinet Member for Community Engagement and Public Health said
“Although the number of deaths by suicide in Buckinghamshire is small; the statistics around suicide nationally are stark, with someone dying as a result of suicide in the UK every two hours. It is estimated that for every person who dies, at least ten other people are affected.
“Suicide can feel a difficult subject to talk about but, if you are concerned about someone, the safest way to start a conversation is to ask them if they are considering taking their own life. Asking them directly will not encourage them to take their own life.
“By asking, you give them the opportunity to say how they are feeling which can be a great relief. Once someone starts talking, they’ve got a better chance of discovering other options than suicide.
“You don’t have to be an expert to have this sort of conversation with someone - just listening to them can help, and try to encourage them to talk by using open questions - the ones that start with who, what, where, how, when or why. Listen to what they’re saying but don’t try to think of solutions.”
Trust your gut instincts and if something doesn’t seem right, say something. Signs to look out for include:
Feelings : worthless, hopeless, loss, alone, trapped, sudden calmness and peace
Words : I cannot take it anymore, I have had enough, everyone will be better off without me, I wish I was dead
Actions : making a will, making amends, saying goodbye, apologising for past events, doing risky things, withdrawing from others
Where can I get help?
If you have concerns that you or someone you know is about to act on suicidal thoughts call 111 or 999, or go to the nearest Accident and Emergency Department. In Buckinghamshire this is at Stoke Mandeville Hospital.
There is further information and advice, including support for people bereaved by suicide, on the Buckinghamshire Mind website at http://www.bucksmind.org.uk/crisis-support/
To talk about your feelings you can also contact a GP or one of the local support organisations including:
Samaritans – 116 123 (24 hours)
Shout (free 24/7 text service) Text Shout to 85258
www.samaritans.org –
PAPYRUS (Prevention of Young Suicide) – 08000 684141
(Mon-Fri 10am-5pm + 7pm-10pm, weekends 2pm-5pm)
www.papyrus-uk.org
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) 0800 585858
(7 days a week 5pm-midnight)
www.thecalmzone.net
MIND 0300 123 3393
(Mon-Fri 9am-6pm)
www.mind.org.uk
Buckinghamshire Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
01865 901951
Buckinghamshire Adult Mental Health Services
01865 901600
Notes to Editors:
‘Light a candle’ image attached for use on social media
Find out more about World Suicide Prevention Day at https://www.iasp.info/wspd2019/
Buckinghamshire’s Suicide Prevention Group partners are:
British Transport Police
Buckinghamshire Clinical Commissioning Group
Buckinghamshire County Council
Buckinghamshire Cruse
Buckinghamshire district councils
Buckinghamshire Mind
Carers Bucks
Department for Work & Pensions
The Farming Community Network
Hectors House
HMYOI Aylesbury
HM Prison Grendon
HM Prison Spring Hill
Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust
Samaritans
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS)
Network Rail
Thames Valley Police
Youth Concern
Buckinghamshire Safeguarding Adults Board
Buckinghamshire Safeguarding Children Board
For further information please contact: Melanie Chilvers, on 01296 382444 or out of hours on 07825430978
PR 10679
29 August 2019
APPROVED for Immediate Release
It’s safe to talk about suicide – have a conversation, it could save a life
People across Buckinghamshire are being invited to light a candle and place it near a window at 8pm on Tuesday 10 September, which is World Suicide Prevention Day, to show their support for suicide prevention, to remember a lost loved one, and to support the survivors of suicide.
Local organisations including the County Council, NHS, Mind and local charities, and other partners are coming together to support World Suicide Prevention Day. Their message is that if you’re worried about someone’s wellbeing or think they may not be OK, it’s safe to talk to them about suicide.
Why do we need to talk about suicide?
- Every day in England around 13 people take their own lives
- Around 30 people die by suicide in Buckinghamshire each year
- 1 in 5 of us have thoughts of suicide at some point in our lives
Gareth Williams, Cabinet Member for Community Engagement and Public Health said
“Although the number of deaths by suicide in Buckinghamshire is small; the statistics around suicide nationally are stark, with someone dying as a result of suicide in the UK every two hours. It is estimated that for every person who dies, at least ten other people are affected.
“Suicide can feel a difficult subject to talk about but, if you are concerned about someone, the safest way to start a conversation is to ask them if they are considering taking their own life. Asking them directly will not encourage them to take their own life.
“By asking, you give them the opportunity to say how they are feeling which can be a great relief. Once someone starts talking, they’ve got a better chance of discovering other options than suicide.
“You don’t have to be an expert to have this sort of conversation with someone - just listening to them can help, and try to encourage them to talk by using open questions - the ones that start with who, what, where, how, when or why. Listen to what they’re saying but don’t try to think of solutions.”
Trust your gut instincts and if something doesn’t seem right, say something. Signs to look out for include:
Feelings : worthless, hopeless, loss, alone, trapped, sudden calmness and peace
Words : I cannot take it anymore, I have had enough, everyone will be better off without me, I wish I was dead
Actions : making a will, making amends, saying goodbye, apologising for past events, doing risky things, withdrawing from others
Where can I get help?
If you have concerns that you or someone you know is about to act on suicidal thoughts call 111 or 999, or go to the nearest Accident and Emergency Department. In Buckinghamshire this is at Stoke Mandeville Hospital.
There is further information and advice, including support for people bereaved by suicide, on the Buckinghamshire Mind website at http://www.bucksmind.org.uk/crisis-support/
To talk about your feelings you can also contact a GP or one of the local support organisations including:
Samaritans – 116 123 (24 hours)
Shout (free 24/7 text service) Text Shout to 85258
www.samaritans.org –
PAPYRUS (Prevention of Young Suicide) – 08000 684141
(Mon-Fri 10am-5pm + 7pm-10pm, weekends 2pm-5pm)
www.papyrus-uk.org
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) 0800 585858
(7 days a week 5pm-midnight)
www.thecalmzone.net
MIND 0300 123 3393
(Mon-Fri 9am-6pm)
www.mind.org.uk
Buckinghamshire Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
01865 901951
Buckinghamshire Adult Mental Health Services
01865 901600
Notes to Editors:
‘Light a candle’ image attached for use on social media
Find out more about World Suicide Prevention Day at https://www.iasp.info/wspd2019/
Buckinghamshire’s Suicide Prevention Group partners are:
British Transport Police
Buckinghamshire Clinical Commissioning Group
Buckinghamshire County Council
Buckinghamshire Cruse
Buckinghamshire district councils
Buckinghamshire Mind
Carers Bucks
Department for Work & Pensions
The Farming Community Network
Hectors House
HMYOI Aylesbury
HM Prison Grendon
HM Prison Spring Hill
Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust
Samaritans
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS)
Network Rail
Thames Valley Police
Youth Concern
Buckinghamshire Safeguarding Adults Board
Buckinghamshire Safeguarding Children Board
For further information please contact: Melanie Chilvers, on 01296 382444 or out of hours on 07825430978
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Buckinghamshire County Council February 2019 Report - Click here to read
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