|
Dear residents,
I have been humbled by the community response and togetherness brought about by this crisis that has caused the death and serious illness of so many of our residents. Saving lives and supporting the most vulnerable in our society is this authority’s priority as we continue to live our lives in the shadow of coronavirus.
Today, the Government set out its strategy for the next phase of the pandemic response. The Council has been looking at how we can adapt to the new guidance and how we can adapt the borough and our services to ensure the safety of residents, businesses and council staff alike.
It is very important to mention that lockdown is not over and we need to stay alert and control the virus. The best way to do this is stay at home if you can, stay two metres apart from others if you are out and wash your hands regularly.
Starting today we will be changing the layout of some pavements and roads to ensure that social distancing measures continue as more people get back to shopping on the high streets across the borough.
Schools, libraries, leisure centres and public transport will need to be changed and adapted to protect us all. This will take time and I will keep you informed in the coming days and weeks as this work progresses.
There are significant challenges still to come as we support those who are grieving, rebuild our local economy and adapt to changes to the way we live. We have already given out over £35 million in government small business grants and over 1500 residents have accessed our hardship fund.
I know this is a difficult time for us all and I don’t underestimate the sacrifices we have made for our loved ones and the wider community.
We will still have to stay apart but in Waltham Forest we are all together.
|
