coronavirus

Residents thanked ahead of Tier 3 restrictions

The people of Northumberland have been thanked for all their hard work in driving down Covid infection rates as the region prepares to go into Very High (Tier 3) restrictions after December 2. 
 
Council Leader Glen Sanderson said although it was disappointing, the decision by Government would help us protect the most vulnerable in the county by reducing the number of cases further. 
 
He said: “I’d like to thank everyone once again for doing their bit and sticking to the rules over the past few weeks. 
 
We know lockdown has been tough on all of us, on our families and on our businesses, but by working through this together we are starting to see results – our rates are now going in the right direction although they are still too high. 
 
“And while it’s disappointing the region finds itself going into Tier 3 we are determined to do everything we can to move out of it as quickly and safely as we can. 
 
Of course, the reopening of shops and retail is very welcome news for our residents and businesses in that sector, and we know this will result in busy town centres as people head out for their Christmas shopping.  
 
It's important therefore that we support our local independent businesses, and we’re actively promoting Shop Local, and we'll work hard to encourage everyone to follow the guidance and stick to hands, face, space at all times. 
 
"And we’ll continue to offer support to those who need it through Northumberland Communities Together, as well as promote our business grant support schemes to our hard-hit businesses. 
 
The county’s Director of Public Health Liz Morgan said: “Infection rates in Northumberland have dropped considerably over the last 10 days but they are still very high.  
 
It does feel like we are getting things more under control though, but this will only be possible if we all continue take responsibility and do our bit for one another. 
 
“It's also important to remember that moving into the Very High Alert category is not just about falling cases, it's more complex than that. 
“Whave to look at the rates in all age groups, particularly older people who are more vulnerable to the virus; and we have to take into consideration the pressure on our local hospitals and NHS services.   
 
Looking at the impact that the Very High Alert level restrictions have had on case numbers in Liverpool, these collective measures do work. 

Cllr Sanderson added: “While this will be a very different December and Christmas for all of us we must remember why we are doing this – by working together we are protecting the most vulnerable, the people we love, and ultimately preventing more deaths from this dreadful virus.” 
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