 Thank you for your efforts
Infection rates continue on a downward trend thanks to everyone’s efforts to stick to the rules under then national lockdown. In fact, the weekly case rate per 100,000 people is currently at 76.6 (up to 13 February). We do still have a way to go and it’s important to note that case rates remain much higher than they were in early autumn.
Next week we are expecting to hear from Central Government about the roadmap out of lockdown. During this time, it will be very important to carry on acting cautiously and follow the national guidance to ensure infections stay low. Head to our Covid-19 pages, or the Berkshire Public Health Covid-19 Dashboard for the latest information.
 Job opportunities for young people
Do you know anyone aged 16-24 who is on Universal Credit? Last month we announced that we’ve been accepted onto the Kickstart Scheme, creating job opportunities for young people who are struggling to find work during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Each job placement is completely new, lasting for six months and helping young people to build their confidence and experience in the workplace; all while earning a regular wage for up to 25 hours per week.
Applicants must be registered with Jobcentre Plus and be claiming Universal Credit – they can then discuss the eligibility criteria with their work coach. Find out more on our website.
 Get tested if you’re leaving home for work
One in three people infected with coronavirus don’t show any symptoms. If you’re regularly leaving home to go to work, you don’t want to risk spreading Covid-19 to your loved ones or colleagues. The easiest way to stay safe is to book in for regular rapid testing at one of our test centres.
We’ve released some handy walk-through videos of our Shute End and Microsoft Campus test centres so you can see how quick and simple it is.
This is for people with no symptoms and you can find out more details and information on how to book on our website. Please help us raise awareness of rapid testing in Wokingham Borough so we can continue to slow the spread of the virus and bring infections down.
 Vaccine priority groups
The NHS is working its way through the top Covid-19 vaccine priority groups. These cover the people who are most likely to become seriously unwell if they are infected with Covid-19, which is why it’s so important for them to get their vaccines first.
The majority of the top four priority groups have been vaccinated and the NHS and GPs are now contacting groups five (those aged 65 and over) and six (adults aged 16 to 65 years with serious underlying health conditions) to invite them forward.
Getting vaccinated is crucial and we would like to ask for your support in encouraging anyone who has been contacted to arrange their vaccination to do so without delay. Sticking to the lockdown rules and remembering ‘hands, face, space’ will also remain a big part of controlling the virus and stopping the spread.
 Has Covid-19 hit you financially?
We want to understand more about the financial impact of Covid-19 on people's lives and are asking anybody affected to share their experiences.
Please complete this very short survey on our consultations page. Those taking part will have the choice to be contacted to give more details if they wish.
The information provided will be incredibly useful for us as we plan services to tackle poverty and help communities. All information provided will be kept confidential and anonymous.
 Useful adult education courses
We are all having to adapt during this lockdown and it definitely isn’t easy. But we want you know we are here to help.
Our adult education team are currently running a range of online courses that you may find useful; from money management and helping your children with anxiety; to building your confidence when applying for jobs. There are also a range of health and wellbeing courses starting soon.
Visit the dedicated webpage for information on all the available courses. Plus, sign-up to our new adult education e-newsletter and be the first to receive the latest course information straight to your inbox.
How Covid-19 is affecting our services
Advice and help for local businesses during Covid-19
Public Health England and Department of Health and Social Care guidance
NHS England advice
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