In Hounslow, COVID-19 cases are rising. The virus can spread quickly if we drop our guard and London is now on the national watch list because of this increase in cases.

Although the cases are mainly in our working age population, we need to prevent spread to our more vulnerable people.

Now is the time for us to take action together and in doing so keep ourselves, our families and our communities safe.

If we do this we can contain the spread of the virus; we can avoid another lockdown, keep Hounslow open, support our businesses and keep priority services, including schools, open.

But we do need to work together and each of us play a part to control the spread of the virus. Be mindful of your actions. Being reckless could do harm to the older and vulnerable people in our communities.

You are most at risk in busy crowds, confined spaces or close contact with others. It is critical that you wear a face covering on public transport, in shops and hospitality venues.

This is the law, and there are fines for breaches, which start at £200.

Finally; the risk of severe illness and death more than doubles for people who test positive for flu and COVID-19. If you are eligible for your flu vaccine, prioritise one thing today - protect yourself from the double threat of flu and coronavirus. Make an appointment with your GP or visit your local pharmacist.

For more information visit: www.hounslow.gov.uk/coronavirus

Adults without an A-Level or equivalent qualification will be offered a free, fully-funded college course by the Government at a time and location that suits them and their families.

Read more here

The NHS COVID-19 app is available on both Apple and Android smartphones and is easy to download. 

The app allows users to report symptoms, apply for a coronavirus test, check in to venues by scanning a QR code and it helps the NHS trace individuals who may have coronavirus. The app will also help health professionals to understand quickly if the virus is spreading in any particular area. Download the app here

This September, with your help, we were able to assist over 20 events in our borough, registered as part of the Great British September Clean campaign, which is run by Keep Britain Tidy. These events took place within our parks and open spaces, on many of our streets, as well as in other community spaces.

It made a real difference, with over 360 bags of litter being collected – some of which was suitable for recycling in the borough. We were blown away by the enthusiasm and dedication of our volunteers and community groups. Thank you very much!

People in England are now required by law to self-isolate if they receive a positive coronavirus test result or are told to by NHS Test and Trace. A £500 payment is available if you are on a low income and you cannot work from home.

Read the guidance here 

We are heading into flu season.

If you or someone you know is entitled to receive a flu jab, remember you can get one for free at your local high street pharmacy or GP surgery. Booking one is easy. Visit: http://londonflu.co.uk

We all have a part to play to keep our air clean. Together let’s make 8 October 2020 the cleanest Clean Air Day yet and feel the difference.

During the COVID-19 lockdown we experienced cleaner air and saw massive shifts to low pollution behaviours. Let’s keep up the momentum and keep our air clean.

To help keep you, your family, friends and colleagues safe, we will be supporting this year's campaign in Hounslow. More information will follow in our next newsletter. 

More information on clean air day here

It is now a legal requirement that businesses follow their industry guidance around social distancing, PPE, contact tracing, cleanliness and hygiene.

As a reminder, for those businesses who are required to record contact tracing information from customers and visitors, this is now a legal requirement. Failure to comply, could result in a fine.

There is now also a requirement for designated businesses and organisations, including hospitality, close contact services and leisure venues, to display official NHS QR code posters. You are also obliged to retain the details of your customers for a minimum period of 21 days. See the guidance here

The Self-Employment Income Support Scheme extension will support viable traders who are facing reduced demand over the winter months, covering 20 per cent of average monthly trading profits via a government grant. Read the guidance here

From 1 November, for six months, the Job Support Scheme will protect viable jobs in businesses who are facing lower demand over the winter months due to Covid-19. Read the guidance here

Due to the resignation of Councillor Hina Kiani, a casual vacancy has arisen in the Office of Councillor for the Hounslow Heath Ward.

By virtue of the Coronavirus Act 2020 and The Local Government and Police and Crime Commissioner (Coronavirus Postponement of Elections and Referendums)(England and Wales) Regulations 2020 the by-election will not currently take place, and the vacancy will be held open until the by election takes place.

More information on the vacancies is available on our website.

• Wash your hands, cover your face and keep your distance from those you don’t live with. 
• You must not meet in a group larger than 6 people in England.
• Unless exempt, you must wear a face covering in crowded areas (including outside)                                                                     
• The penalty for failing to wear a face covering or breaking the rule of 6 will now double to £200 for a first offence.