Coronavirus Update: VE Day, keeping parks open and support for you

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Leader of the Council Clare Coghill green background

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

Dear residents,

As the first May Bank Holiday rolls around, we find ourselves in a very different situation to previous years. Friday 8 May marks the 75th anniversary of VE Day, a day back in 1945 where thousands gathered for street parties across London, to wait for the announcement of peace after six years of enduring the Second World War.

Social distancing doesn't mean we can't connect during this time and there are lots of ways you can celebrate and join in with VE Day from home. We'd love for you to share on social media how you are joining in safely, whether you're making bunting or having a celebratory tea party.

This isn’t easy, and I want to thank everyone who is also playing their part by continuing to follow the Government advice to stay at home. We need to carry on following the guidance even though everyone is restless. It’s only by doing that, that we can get back to the things and the people we love quicker. Over time we will also need to support those who are grieving, rebuild our local economy and adapt to changes to the way we live. I have no doubt that our incredible borough can rise to this.

I urge you to stay strong, and look forward to a brighter future where we can meet again.

Travelling safely across our borough

We are currently working on introducing temporary road measures across the borough, to make sure residents can maintain social distancing across our busier part of the boroughs once lockdown guidelines ease. This will be part of the Mayor of London's recently announced London Streetspace Scheme.

These plans include suspending footway parking bays to allow residents to walk safely along high streets allowing you to take your daily exercise or shop for essential items whilst maintaining safe social distancing measures. This is an ongoing programme and will be updated regularly. Sign up to the Enjoy newsletter to keep updated or read more about the plans.

VE Day Celebrations

In the leadup to VE Day we’ve been working with local Royal British Legion groups to support their preparations for lockdown. This is an important time to give thanks to the World War II generation.

If you know a member of the WWII generation we urge you to give them a call tomorrow and over the weekend. Here are the reflections of, Bill (100, pictured with Prince Harry during the 2019 Remembrance Ceremony), Doris, (102, resident of Lime Court and Alfred (89, resident of Lime Court), respectively - local heroes recounting their experiences of World War II.

For tips on how to celebrate from home, check out our webpage how to celebrate Celebrate VE Day in Lockdown

Your mental health matters

This pandemic can bring a lot of worries that can impact our mental health and we know that you may be experiencing an increase of stress, low moods and may be feeling lonely and isolated during this lockdown.

We've put together a page full of support that may be useful to you during this time including tips on maintaining good mental wellbeing and signposting to more targeted support resources.

Access these resources.

Do you need business help?

If you are a small business or a voluntary community group and haven't been eligible for the UK Government's business grants there are private funds and support available that may be able to support you.

We are offering information, advice and guidance available to you during this time, so if you feel you need it, please do reach out for support.

There is also a list of grants available and support for the creative industry.

Get more information.

Council Services

Is your child starting school this year?

Starting school is an important stage in a child's life. Our schools, early years and childcare providers and families all have a part to play in helping children successfully transition to school.

Whilst you are staying home at the moment we know that parents will be concerned about their child's education. To help achieve a successful transition, the Early Years and Childcare Team have created a project called ‘Starting School Together’.

A range of digital resources and strategies have been developed to support children to and help them start positively on their next learning and development journey.

Get more information.

Steps to support you back into employment

We know how hard this time has been for many residents in relation to employment stress however we aim to continue to support effected residents throughout this pandemic and into the next stage of this process.

If you've recently lost your job or feel you might be made redundant during this time, Steps into Work are here to support you. This Rapid Employment Service are able to support with developing CVs, mock interview practice and confidence building, and supporting in job applications and personal statements.

Contact Steps into Work.

Help us to keep parks open

Thank you to all our residents who continue to use parks and open spaces in the right way, following government guidelines to keep others and ourselves safe.

It's important that even if the weather is nice this weekend, you only go out for essential journeys or your daily exercise.

When using parks, ensure you maintain a distance of 2 metres from other people at all times. By doing this, you will keep us all safe and help to ensure that a second wave of coronavirus is less likely.

Financial Support

If you and your family are in severe financial hardship during this time, there is local welfare assistance available that can help with food vouchers, gas/electric payments, and support to buy essential household items.

We know that residents may also be experiencing worry related to their housing situation. Whether you are a private or housing tenants, we have support available to you during this time.

Help with housing during Covid-19

Suntrap safari in the forest

This weekend is No Mow May, so why not skip the lawnmower and let the lawn grow? The Suntrap Forest Centre website has lots of great nature activities to enjoy with your family instead.

One activity is the Safari wildlife challenge, with the prize of winners and their seven guests to spend a night under the stars in one of the new wooden camping pods. There are lots of filming tips on the website so you can brush up your skills and then give it a go!

The next live 'Editing made east' livestream will be on Wednesday 20 May at 11am over on YouTube.

A number of Council services have been affected but we are working hard to ensure that vital services continue.

Visit our website for up to date information on our services and how to access them.

Information and advice regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) is changing quickly and its important you keep up to date with those changes. The Council will be using email newsletters to keep residents and businesses up to date.

If residents have questions please visit our website, and use live chat to talk to one of our team, it's quicker than phoning.

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