Coronavirus (covid-19) information hub


 

NHS COVID-19 links: Vaccination | Symptoms | Get a test | Self isolation | NHS COVID-19 app

Service changes due to coronavirus (COVID-19)

There have been changes to some of our services due to the recent outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Please click on the links below for more information on how these services will run during this time:

Weddings and funerals - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding wedding Registration Services and funeral services, in relation to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

This information was last updated 9 April 2021


Following the government's announcement on 5 April 2021 which outlined the recovery roadmap for England, we are delighted to now have clarity around wedding and civil partnership ceremonies. We'd like to share this detail with you regarding ceremonies, funerals and commemorative events as follows - 
  • From no earlier than 12 April 2021, weddings, civil partnerships,  receptions, and commemorative events including wakes will be able to take place with up to 15 attendees (in premises that are permitted to open). 
  • From no earlier than 17 May 2021,  weddings, civil partnerships, receptions, funerals, and commemorative events including wakes can proceed with up to 30 attendees (in locations where covid security restrictions will allow them). 
  • From no earlier than 21 June 2021 there will be no legal attendance limits placed on any life events. 
Covid safety measures (social distancing and facemasks) will still be in place to ensure everyone's safety until further notice 

The government will announce one week in advance of each of these dates whether restrictions will be eased as planned, as before changes can be made in line with this timetable, its essential that the government criteria has been met.
 
We appreciate that whilst it's fantastic to finally see a way forward, these key steps are still subject to review and may still affect couples' plans. We expect our phone lines will be very busy but please rest assured we are here for all our couples and we will respond if you have any questions or queries. 
 
Until then we will continue following the guidance in place. 
 
If you have any queries regarding weddings or civil partnerships, please contact the Ceremony Team at alnwickreg@northumberland.gov.uk. 


Appointments   

We are still permitted to remain open for Notice of Marriage and Civil Partnership appointments, and parents can attend our offices to register births on an appointment basis. Please note that if you are looking to book a notice appointment, we are only able to take notices that are within 3 months of your marriage or civil partnership date. Any notice appointments that are already booked will not need to be rescheduled.  
 
The Northumberland Registration Service will continue to be there to support and assist our couples and be assured we will provide updates as soon as anything changes.  


Funerals 

Funerals can be attended by a maximum of 30 people. Linked religious, belief-based or commemorative events, such as stone settings and ash scatterings can also continue with up to 6 people in attendance. Anyone working is not counted in these limits. Social distancing should be maintained between people who do not live together or share a support bubble. 

If you have any queries regarding funerals, please contact Bereavement Services at blyth.crematorium@northumberland.gov.uk.

Contact us

If you have any queries regarding weddings or civil partnerships, please contact the Ceremony Team at alnwickreg@northumberland.gov.uk. Regular updates are also available at mynorthumberlandwedding.co.uk and on Facebook and Twitter

If you have any queries regarding funerals, please contact Bereavement Services at blyth.crematorium@northumberland.gov.uk.

Libraries update - Coronavirus updates

Keep up to date with the latest library news here.

This information was last updated 9 April 2021.

Step 2 of Library Service Recovery

From 12 April, most libraries will reopen for time limited browsing and prebooked PC access. Some are operating amended hours so please check before visiting. If you prefer to carry on collecting a selection of books made by library staff, you can but we are looking forward to seeing you and helping you choose whilst you are browsing.

Alnwick Library will remain closed until repair work is completed.

Cramlington Library will continue to operate Select and Collect until it closes on 21 April to move to the new Community Hub.

Books can be returned to libraries during these hours but don't panic! Fines on overdue books are currently suspended.

The mobile library will begin operating an amended schedule from 12 April too but access onto the vehicle will be restricted. Please check halt times by ringing 01670 620204

Our Reading Friends telephone calls and Doorstep Deliveries to library members will continue.

Our digital library continues to offer hundreds of e-Books, e-Audio, e-newspapers and magazines to read. If you are not a library member you can join online today and access our digital library with your temporary borrower ID.

Our virtual events programme will continue as we prepare the safe resumption of some of our face to face activities.

Our Digital Helpline is also still available for anyone who needs help with getting online or accessing online services. Call 0345 600 6400 and request a call back or complete this short form by clicking here.

Northumberland Archives service - Coronavirus updates

The latest information about Northumberland Archives and how this service is affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19).

This information was last updated 9 April 2021.

From Wednesday 21 April, the Berwick Record Office will reopen to the public. Opening hours will be Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 4.30pm.

Appointments and document requests must be made in advance via Eventbrite. For further information, please e-mail berwickarchives@northumberland.gov.uk or telephone 01289 301865. 

Please note only the Berwick Record Office will open at this time. The main office at Woodhorn will open later. 
 
Find out more about the service at www.northumberlandarchives.com
 
If you need to contact the service, please call 01670 624 358.
 
Continue to check our website and social media pages for further updates.
Please do have a look at some our online resources:

Tourism - Coronavirus updates

Here you can find the latest information regarding tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This information was last updated on 9 April 2021.

From Monday 12 April, Craster and Seahouses Tourist Information Centres will be open 10am - 2pm, 7 days per week.

More information
For any enquiries please contact 0345 600 6400 and continue to check this page for further updates.

Visitor information is available from www.visitnorthumberland.com or by emailing: visitorinfo@northumberland.gov.uk

Active Northumberland - Coronavirus updates

The latest information about Northumberland leisure centres during the coronavirus pandemic.

This information was last updated 9 April 2021. 

Active Northumberland are re-opening their centres on the 12 April. They have announced roadmaps to reopening each centre.

For more information about updates and how to attend safely visit the Active Northumberland website by clicking here.

Active Northumberland: Road to Reopening

Reopening of Active Northumberland Centres - Table showing each step


Step 1 - 29 March

Outdoor sports pitches open
  • Sporting club Cramlington
  • Hirst Welfare Centre
  • Northburn Sports & Community Centre
  • Ponteland Leisure Centre
  • Swan Centre for Leisure


Step 2 - 12 April

Full details to be confirmed once final guidence has been recived
  • Gyms
  • Swimming pools
  • Indoor Racquet Sports (Same household only)
  • Indoor Junior Activites
  • Tranquility Spa Treatments (Ashington Leisure Centre)
  • Clip 'n' Climb
  • Pegasus Riding Centre
  • Outdoor Athletics Track


Step 3 - 17 May

Full details to be confirmed once final guidence has been recived
  • Fitness Classes
  • HIVE Bowling
  • Softplay
  • Adult Indoor Sport
  • Exercise on Referral
  • Tranquility Spa facilities
  • HIVE Sports Bar


Step 4 - 21 June

Review of all measures

Parks - Coronavirus updates

The latest information about our Northumberland Parks and how they are affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19).

This information was last updated on 12 April 2021.

Country parks in Northumberland

All our country parks will remain open.  You can find out more about our country parks here. Cafes at the county's Country Parks are open for a limited takeaway service 

You should minimise time spent outside your home, but you can leave your home to exercise or for outdoor recreation, such as a picnic.

You may do this in a public outdoor place:


Play parks and town parks in Northumberland


All the county council run parks and play areas are open. Find out more about our parks here.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, no water parks are open and there are no plans to reopen them this summer.

Schools - Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The latest information about schools in Northumberland affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19).

This information was last updated 25 March 2021.

Information about schools

Nursery and Early Years settings 

Attendance in nurseries, childminders and other early years providers remains optional, but we strongly encourage you to take up a place for your child. You can check if your child is eligible for any of the free childcare entitlements, worth on average £2,500 a year to parents of 2 year olds, and up to £5,000 a year to parents of 3 and 4 year-olds, on the Childcare Choices website.
 

Schools

All pupils in primary, first, middle, secondary, high schools and colleges are being welcomed back from Monday March 8. 
 
Some Secondary and High schools are staggering their returns in the first week. Parents and carers are encouraged to speak directly with schools for information. 
 

Clinically Extremely Vulnerable children

Children and young people whose GP's and/or consultants have confirmed they are still clinically extremely vulnerable are advised to continue following the guidance given to them. Schools will need to make appropriate arrangements to enable them to continue their education at home. Please speak to your school about this. 
 
Children who live with someone who is clinically extremely vulnerable, but who are not clinically extremely vulnerable themselves, can still attend education. 
 

Self-isolating children and families

n line with public health advice those who are self-isolating and have had symptoms or a positive test result, or because they are a close contact of someone who has coronavirus (COVID-19) should not attend school.. We advise you speak directly with your school to ensure the right support is provided remotely.  
 
The Local Authority continues to work with headteachers across the county to support them in the implementation of appropriate health and safety measures based on their risk assessments, and in line with Government guidance.

School transport will be provided, but this is dependent on the number of pupils who wish to travel, the availability of drivers, and the start times schools may operate.

Parents should contact their child’s school to discuss arrangements.

You can find the full questions and answers document here. 
The scheme outlines that if a school catering service cannot provide meals or food parcels, they should offer pupils from families that are eligible for benefits-related free school meals an alternative.
 
We are continuing to accept free school meal applications at this time. If you think your child is eligible but you are not currently claiming, you can contact us on 0345 600 6400 (Monday-Thursday 8.30am-5pm, Fridays 8.30am-4.30pm), or apply by submitting this application form:

Please click here to view the free school meals application form.

You can find the full questions and answers document here. 

Household Waste Recovery Centres (Tip) - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding Household Waste Recovery Centres (HWRCs), also known as 'tips'.

This information was last updated 12 April 2021

Our tips are currently open and operating at summer opening hours.


We advise residents to recycle from home as much as possible in order to limit their time spent outside the home. The following items can be placed in household recycling bins: paper and magazines, cardboard, plastic bottles, clean/rinsed food tins, drinks cans, and aerosols.


Vans / trailers permit scheme

Please click here for more information about applying for a permit and booking a time slot at your local tip. 

Coroner's service - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding the coroner's service in Northumberland, and how this service is operating during the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

The Northumberland Coroner's Office remains open, however we may be working remotely in response to the COVID-19 virus. 

All information concerning case referrals, queries, and any other business should now be sent to our email address: This email address is monitored between 8am and 4pm (Monday to Friday) and we will respond as soon as possible.

PLEASE NOTE: The Coroner's Court continues to operate within the restrictions in place due to Covid-19. Please contact the Coroner's Office if you require any assistance.

 

The National Bereavement Partnership - COVID-19 Hub

This hub was created to provide support to all affected by the COVID-19 pandemic by working closely with the NHS Trusts and other relevant organisations.

Please click here for more information about The National Bereavement Partnership.

You can call their free helpline on 0800 448 0800, open every day from 7am - 10pm.

Museums - Coronavirus updates

The latest information about Museums Northumberland and how they are affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19).

This information was last updated 25 March 2021

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Woodhorn Museum, Berwick Museum and Art Gallery, Hexham Old Gaol and Morpeth Chantry Bagpipe Museum will all remain closed to the public at this time.
 
For more about these museums and online information please go  to museumsnorthumberland.org.uk 

Cemeteries and crematorium - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding burials and cremations and how these are operating during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.


Cemeteries

Cemeteries remain open to the public.
 

Cremations

Due to the government guidelines, we have introduced some temporary measures to ensure that mourners are able to follow Government guidelines on social distancing.

A maximum of up to 30 people may attend a cremation service in person and they should be;
  • members of the person’s household,
  • close family members,
  • if the above are unable to attend, close friends,
  • attendance of a celebrant of choice, should the bereaved request this.
Webcasting:
To support loved ones who can not attend in person, we have made webcasting of the service available free of charge. Details of how families can access each service remotely via the internet has been sent to Funeral Directors who will be able to advise the family.
 

 

Burials

A maximum of up to 10 people may be present at the graveside and they should be;

  • members of the person’s household,
  • close family members,
  • if the above are unable to attend, close friends,
  • attendance of a celebrant of choice, should the bereaved request this.
 
Remember - it's really important everyone adheres to the social distancing guidance for the safety of themselves, families and our staff.
 
We understand that these restrictions may be difficult for families that are already going through a difficult time but urge people to follow the guidance to protect themselves and their loved ones. 
 
The link below details current government guidance regarding funerals:

Parking - Coronavirus update

The latest information about parking in Northumberland and how it is affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19).

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

All public car parks remain open. Car parks that charge to park will continue to do so. The council will keep the car park openings under review as the situation may change depending on local or national developments. 

Public safety remains our top priority and we have made a number of improvements in response to the challenges faced due to the Covid-19 pandemic, including;-

  • relocating a number of ticket machines in coastal car parks to better facilitate social distancing in the event of queues forming during busy periods

  • introducing Pay By Phone into our Pay and Display car parks to provide a convenient contactless method of payment removing the need for users to obtain a pay and display ticket from the machines

  • providing additional public toilet facilities in some of our car parks because of increased demand on our existing facilities and to enable social distancing to be maintained

Pay By Phone is used by many local authorities across the country. Users only need to set up an account once and then it can be used in all car parks where Pay By Phone is in operation. The service also offers additional benefits such as being able to extend parking sessions remotely.

For further information on the implementation of Pay By Phone, please click here

Pest control - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding pest control in Northumberland, and how this service is operating during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

From the 31 August 2020 all pest treatments will return to normal.

There will be reduced availability for appointments in the last week of each month from January to March 2021.

To learn more about pest treatments and how to make a booking click here. 

Street care & cleaning - Coronavirus updates

The latest information about maintenance work carried out by the council and how this is operating during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

We will continue delivering our street cleansing and winter grounds maintenance program to keep our country clean, green and safe. 
 
Remember - it's really important everyone sticks to the social distancing rules - so please keep away from our teams if you see them working - and we'll do likewise.

Markets - Coronavirus updates

The latest information on Northumberland Markets during the pandemic.

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

From Tuesday 5 January, our markets remain open but only for the sale of essential goods. 

Click here to see locations and dates that our markets operate.

A list of what markets are open:

Wednesday:  Friday: Saturday: Tuesday:

Bin collection - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding bin collections and how the service is affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19).

This information was last updated on 12 April 2021.

 

Check your bin collection date here

  

Bin Collections

Our bin collection teams are still out and about, working to collect your normal household rubbish and recycling bins. We're also running our commercial waste service to businesses.

Please click here to see our alerts page, where we will update you on any issues we have with collecting your bins.

You can help by thoroughly washing your hands for at least 20 seconds before and after touching your bins. 

If someone in your household had symptoms for COVID-19, please make sure their waste is also double-bagged, the handles of each bag are tied, and is stored for 72 hours in a place not accessed by people/pets before putting in it your bin.

We will respond to advice from the government and Public Health England, and will keep residents informed of changes to our waste services. 

If you suspect that someone has the Coronavirus, here is the government advice on what to do with their waste, and how to clean any areas where they have been:

Taxi licensing - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding taxi licensing in Northumberland, and how this is impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Please check the drop down boxes below for the new online renewal application forms and information about renewing your license.
To renew your hackney carriage / private hire drivers licence, please click here which will take you to the new online application form.

As part of the application process, you will need to attach the required documents including your driver's licence, passport, bank statement and council tax bill. 

Please note that you will need to provide proof of payment with your application, therefore you are required to pay the licence fee before you complete the online application form. Payment can be made using the clicking here. 

If you require a DBS Certificate the fee is £145.00 for one licence or £175.00 for two licences.  

If you are on the DBS update service, the fees are as follows:  
  • One year - £78.00 single licence (£108.00 two licences)  
  • Two years - £112.00 single licence (£142.00 two licences) 
  • Three years - £146.00 single licence (£176.00 two licences)  
If you are on the DBS update service, you will need to take a copy of your DBS certificate to add to the application. If you are not on the DBS update service, you will need to apply for a new DBS.  

You can apply for a new DBS by clicking here.

Organisation reference:  NCCPPL  
Password: NCC 

You will also need to provide us with a DVLA activation code which you can get by clicking here. This code is case sensitive, please record as capital letters or small case letters.
To renew your private hire vehicle licence, please click here which will take you to the new online application form.

The fee for a hackney carriage/private hire vehicle licence is £226.00 or where the vehicle is LPG or bio-diesel £204.00. 

Please note that you will need to provide proof of payment with your application, therefore you are required to pay the licence fee before you complete the online application form. 

Payment can be made by clicking here.  

Please book your MOT/Compliance test at one of the Northumberland County Council garages below: -
  • Alnwick Depot – 01670 624392  
  • Stakeford Depot – 01670 622937  
  • Tyne Mills Depot – 01670 623746  
Should you require any further information, please contact us at licensing@northumberland.gov.uk.
We are now processing new driver applications. Please email licensing@northumberland.gov.uk to book your knowledge test and Child & Adult Sexual Exploitation Training (CASE). Once you have passed the knowledge/locality test a member of the team will send you a private hire and/or hackney carriage drivers application form together with a group 2 medical application to be completed by your GP. Applicants should enquire with their GP as soon as possible as to whether they can access appointments for medical certificates. Licences cannot be granted without satisfactory medical certificates. 

 

Knowledge tests

You will need to pass a knowledge test which is now remote on a one to one basis and conducted via a virtual meeting using either microsoft teams or Google meet. To book a knowledge test please email licensing@northumberland.gov.uk A member of the team will take your payment and book you onto the next available test or at a time convenient to you. Please note there is a short waiting list at present. 

Child & Adult Sexual Exploitation Training (CASE)

As a temporary measure, CASE training is also currently being conducted remotely. To book onto the training please email licensing@northumberland.gov.uk A member of the team will take your payment and book you onto the next available training session. 
Applications are being processed but proprietors should contact the licensing section to discuss. 
 
The preferred contact method with the licensing department is by e-mail: 

Department for Transport (DfT)

Following the Prime Ministers announcement on 22nd September 2020, the Department for Transport (DfT) laid a Statutory Instrument in both Houses of Parliament to mandate the wearing of face coverings in taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs) in England under the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984. This regulation has now come into effect.   
  
In line with public transport and retail settings the Regulations gives new powers to taxi and PHV drivers to deny access to a service, and to direct someone to leave a service, if they are not wearing a face covering without a legitimate reason.  If passengers fail to comply, the Police have a power to remove passengers from a service (using reasonable force if necessary), and issue a Fixed Penalty Notice. The requirement only applies when a service is being provided i.e. passengers are not required to wear a face covering when the vehicle is used for personal use. 
  
We always recommended that passengers wear face coverings in PHVs and taxis and moving to mandating this is a reasonable additional step to take to reduce the risk of infection when used alongside other measures. We will also be working with taxi and PHV operators and drivers to ensure that all passengers are aware of the exemptions to this regulation. There are health, age, equalities and other reasons why someone may not be able to wear a face covering. It is crucial that operators and passengers are aware of these exemptions to ensure that everyone can have confidence in using public transport. DfT will publish updated guidance as soon as possible for operators and passengers on travelling safely during the outbreak. The guidance will reflect the latest information about face coverings. I would be grateful if you could share the change and the updated guidance with your licensees.
 
We would also like to take this opportunity to draw your attention a number of assets which DfT are creating to support our stakeholders to communicate this change. The assets will contain messages around how to ensure both drivers and customers are kept safe, as well as messaging on exemptions. They will be made available https://extranet.dft.gov.uk/safer-transport-campaign/ shortly alongside the existing assets we have available. Please do cascade these assets and resources to your members/networks.   
 
The following COVID guidance pages have been updated: 

Business waste collections - Coronavirus updates

Our Business Waste Collection service is still operating despite the latest restrictions due coronavirus (COVID-19)

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

If you are a business who currently has a waste collection contract with Northumberland County Council, and due to the latest Covid-19 National lockdown restrictions, which came into effect on Wednesday 6 January, means your business will remain temporarily closed, then please contact us if you wish to amend your waste collection contract.

 
Please let us know as soon as possible, so we can discuss different options that may be available for you.
 

 

Contact us

If you need to speak to a Waste Management Officer, please see the email addresses below for who to contact in your area:

Please note that the following email addresses are for business waste enquiries only.
 
For the Northern area, please contact Julie Case at julie.case@northumberland.gov.uk.
 
For the West and Central area, please contact Kevin Ferrol at 
 
For the South East area, please contact Matthew Swaddle at 

Music Updates Covid-19

The latest information about Music Partnership North with resources, online tuition, latest guidance or support available.

This page was last updated on 22 April 2021


Information for Parents - Online Music Tuition

If your child's school is not currently allowing music tutors into the school then we will still offer an online service where possible. All the relevant information and registration process can be accessed by following this link (please be aware that a separate parental consent form will need to be completed prior to lessons starting.) The cost of online lessons are: 20 mins £12.00 and 30 mins £17.50.
 

 

Find time to make 1 minute of music - find out how!

Music Partnership North are celebrating Make Music Day on the 21st of June by inviting all schools to prepare 1 minute of music.  Open the flyer to find out how your school can and should get involved!
 
It's time to celebrate the music happening in your school this term and give the students a chance to share their skills. To register your school, click 1 minute of music.  Please email David.Francis@northumberland.gov.uk  for more information


Sign your school up for Music Partnership North's Big Gig, part of National Music Day!

Music Partnership North invites you to their virtual “Big Gig” as part of National Music Day 21st June 2021.  Music makers from across the nation will come together to appreciate the many benefits that music making brings to life. To take part in this FREE event please register by the 23rd April 2021 using the link in the poster.

Birth and death registration - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding birth and death registrations, and how the service is affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19).

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.


Births
We are doing face-to-face birth registrations. To arrange an appointment, please telephone 0345 600 6400.

However, if you live in North Tyneside and your baby was born at Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital in Cramlington, you will be able to do a birth declaration at the Riverside Children's Centre in North Shields. Please telephone 0191 643 8899 to make an appointment. 
 
Deaths
 
Due to the current guidelines regarding COVID-19, we are no longer offering face to face appointments to register a death.
 
The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) will be scanned directly to the Registrars by the hospital or doctor. The death will then be registered via telephone. Please call 0345 600 6400 to make an appointment. 
 
A death must be registered within five days.

Planning Services - Coronavirus updates

Guidance for our customers on the Planning Service during Coronavirus (COVID-19).

This information was last updated 25 March 2021. 

There have been changes to how some of our services operate due to Coronavirus (COVID-19). For the latest up-to-date information please read our Planning Services Frequently Asked Questions - Covid-19 Guidance Document.


To submit an application please see our Apply for Planning Permission page.

ALERT: Validation delays. We are currently experiencing high volumes of work and as a result there are currently delays with Validation. We are working hard to get through the back log. All applications that are deemed valid will be registered from the date they were recieved. Thank you for your patience.

Questions and advice

Before contacting us please read the information on our planning webpages as these may answer your query. We cannot give you advice on whether or not permission is required over the phone or by email because it takes time and further detail to assess this properly, for step by step advice read our Do I need planning permission guidance.

Questions about specific applications should be directed to the Case Officer for that application. Their name can be found using the reference number on our Public Access system where you can also submit comments online. For anything else if you know the name of the person/team within Planning Services you need to contact please send your correspondence directly to them or view the email addresses for specific planning teams. If you are emailing us about a specific site or application please include the address/reference number so we can find it.

Bulky Waste - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding bulky waste collections and how this service is operating during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

The bulky waste service will continue to operate within the latest national lockdown.

As you may be aware we have been running a restricted service that has meant we can't collect all items we usually can. From Monday 3 August 2020 we can begin to collect more of your items. However, we still cannot collect large exercise equipment such as treadmills and exercise bikes.

Contacting Customer Service, Information Centres & Registrars

The latest information about public access to Customer Service, Information Centres, and Registrars, in relation to coronavirus (COVID-19).

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

Following the Government’s advice, it’s important we protect both our residents and our staff. The council has restricted public access to our buildings.

Customer Service Information Centres and Registrars have moved to a first point of contact being a digital recommendation. We will not have any front of house staffing and facilities, and will only offer a limited face to face service available at our sites if it is safely managed, by appointment only, and after a risk assessment deems it necessary to do so.  
 
The safest way for you to contact the council is via our website. You can also call us on 0345 600 6400 during office hours.
  • Monday to Thursday 08:30am - 5pm 
  • Friday 08:30am - 4:30pm 

We now have dedicated #Coronavirus section on our website dedicated to provide you with the information and updates on our services. Click here to view our coronavirus information and updates.

 

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Garden waste collection - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding garden waste collection in Northumberland during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

This information was last updated 25 March 2021

 

Garden waste 2021 collections are now taking place. 

Check your collection dates using the timetable here.


Important update on garden waste 2021 services 

We apologise for delays in providing new customers with garden waste bins. We have now secured a supply and will be able to resume supplying bins from Tuesday 6 April.
 
Customers still awaiting delivery of a bin may have their 2021 fee refunded and cancel the service or wait to receive a bin for the remainder of their collections. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer partial refunds.
 
We would like to apologise to all customers that have been unable to make full use of the garden waste collection service this year. If you do choose to ask for a refund, we hope you will consider re-joining the service in the future.

Please call 0345 600 6400 if you wish to cancel your 2021 garden waste subscription.
 


More garden waste information

For more information on your garden waste service, please click here. You can find out information such as: 

  • What can and can't go in your garden waste bin
  • How to report a missed garden waste collection

Animal welfare - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding animal welfare issues during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

Please keep your dogs safe and secure during this national crisis. If your dog strays or runs away, there will not be as many members of the public out and about to help locate your dog as normal.
 
Help your local animal welfare team out by:
  • Making sure your dog is always wearing a collar and tag with current contact details (and check microchip details are up to date)
  • Not leaving your dog unattended in the garden or while on walks
  • Checking garden fencing and gates are secure
  • Keeping your dog on a lead while exercising, in case they get spooked or run off
If you are concerned about the welfare of a pet – report an animal welfare issue.
 
This is not to be used for reporting problems with wild animals such as birds, rodents, foxes, etc. There are various organisations, such as the RSPB and the RSPCA, which can help in these cases.

If you have lost your dog, or have found a stray dog, please click here to report lost/stray dog.

Public toilets

Here is a list of all Northumberland County Council maintained public conveniences, including disabled access and baby changing facilities.

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

See the list below for which toilets are open and when.

Toilets not detailed in the list below are currently closed due to Covid-19 health and safety concerns. Please follow appropriate social distancing guidance and directions on safety signs at the facilities.

This list will be updated as health and safety issues are reviewed.
If you have any issues and wish to report a problem, please use the link below: Alternatively, if you wish to make any comments or suggestions about any toilet units, please contact 0345 600 6400.
The Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation (R.A.D.A.R), alongside disability organisations, local authorities and others, established a national key scheme (NKS) for toilets for disabled people in 1981.

The principle is if a local authority locks public toilets for disabled people, it can use a standard lock and make arrangements for disabled people to obtain a key.

Can I purchase a R.A.D.A.R key from Northumberland County Council?
You can obtain a key from tourist information centres or from customer services information centres throughout Northumberland at a cost of £3.60 including VAT.

R.A.D.A.R keys must have VAT charged at 20% unless a 0% VAT for individuals form is signed by each disabled person. This form is available to download here and from tourist information and customer service information centres. The key will fit all national toilets participating in the scheme.

Housing visits and repairs - Coronavirus updates

The latest information regarding housing visits and repairs in Northumberland and how this service is affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

This information was last updated on 25 March 2021.

We are continuing to deliver a full Repairs Service (Including Gas Servicing). Any staff undertaking work within tenants homes will be following risk assessments, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and asking tenants to maintain social distancing for the duration of any works.

Following disruption to services throughout this year due to previous Covid restrictions and impact on materials and supply chain, we are still working to get through a backlog of repairs jobs, so appointment times may take longer than normal. 

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