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Dear resident,
We hope you’re keeping safe and well.
This week we are providing updated guidance and advice on when to wear a face covering, and reminding people to register with the national shielding service.
Face coverings mandatory in shops and supermarkets from 24 July
The government has announced plans to make face coverings mandatory in shops and supermarkets from 24 July.
A face covering is something that covers your mouth and nose.
Under the new rules, people who do not wear a face covering will face a fine of up to £100. Children under 11 and those with certain disabilities will be exempt.
Should someone without an exemption refuse to wear a face covering, a shop can refuse them entry and can call the police. If people refuse to comply, police can issue a fine.
For information on how to use a face covering correctly, watch this video.
Public Transport
The government has advised that from today in England anyone may use public transport for journeys. However, you are still encouraged to use other means of transport where possible.
Public transport users must wear a face covering when travelling on buses and trains. In line with government guidelines, visitors to travel centres will need to wear a face covering from 24 July.
The exemptions for wearing a face covering in supermarkets and shops also apply on public transport.
Those exempt from wearing a face covering can download an assistance card to help communicate this to staff on bus and rail services in West Yorkshire. You can print them off or take a picture on your phone to show staff.
You should also continue using contactless payment if you can.
Taxis and private hire vehicles
You should wear a face covering when using taxis or private hire vehicles. A taxi driver or private hire vehicle operator may be entitled to refuse to accept you if you do not wear a face covering.
Follow the advice of the driver. For example, you may be asked to sit in the back left-hand seat if travelling alone. You may want to check with your taxi or private hire operator before travelling if they have put any additional measures in place.
Full guidance on face coverings including other exemptions, and how to make your own face covering, is available here.
New localised measures
The Government has announced that from tomorrow (Saturday 18 July) councils will be given specific powers to tackle localised outbreaks. This means the council will be able to intervene to shut down events, premises and outdoor spaces at short notice.
To prevent the spread of the virus and the need for localised measures please remember:
- As part of the NHS Test and Trace, businesses are being asked to keep a record of their customers and visitors for 21 days. You should assist by providing details when asked to do so.
- Maintain social distancing.
- Regularly wash your hands and wear a face covering if you’re using public transport.
- Stay home if you or anyone in your household experience any symptoms and book in for a test.
Shielding – FRIDAY 17 JULY deadline to register
The deadline to register for the national shielding service is TODAY (Friday 17 July).
If you have been advised to shield, by registering for support on the government website you can access priority supermarket delivery slots. This priority access will be ongoing throughout the pandemic.
From 1 August, the Government will pause shielding unless the transmission of COVID-19 in the community starts to rise significantly.
For the latest advice and support for shielding, visit our website or call the Leeds Coronavirus Helpline on 0113 378 1877.
Devolution deal – last chance to have your say
This weekend is also the last chance to have your say on the West Yorkshire devolution deal.
Devolution would give our region control of at least £1.8 billion of funding to be spent on the things that matter locally. It would also mean decisions across key areas such as transport, skills, the economy, housing and regeneration will be taken in West Yorkshire, supporting our region’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of the devolution deal, a mayor for West Yorkshire would be elected next May.
The devolution consultation closes at midnight on Sunday 19 July. To complete the survey visit the West Yorkshire Combined Authority website.
As the lockdown eases we are preparing to open more of our services. To keep up-to-date with which services have re-opened, visit our website.
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