Month: April 2020

Cat lovers take up the 2.6 Challenge to save UK charities

Cat lovers are taking up the 2.6 Challenge to raise funds for UK charities and put the fun back into fundraising with many stay-at-home heroes lending their support to Cats Protection.

The 2.6 Challenge was created to address the funding shortfall as events are postponed or cancelled. Supporters are encouraged to come up with fun activities based on the numbers 26 or 2.6, and to seek sponsorship for their favourite UK charities. Events should take place on or around Sunday, 26 April, which would have been the London Marathon’s 40th anniversary.

Cats Protection staff, volunteers and supporters have already signed up with a range of imaginative activities to show that, despite the lockdown, they remain #HereForTheCats. All sponsored events will follow social distancing guidelines, of course.

Birmingham Stair-Trekker Clara Youden (43) refused to curtail her training for a trek in Nepal and has covered the equivalent distance of the 53km trek on her stairs; going up and down the stairs 2,600 times, clocking up 69,553 steps. She even decorated her house in a nod to the places she will see on the trip.

Clara, volunteer team leader at Cats Protection’s Birmingham Adoption Centre, said: “People were doing marathons in their gardens and I thought why not walk the trek distance on my stairs? It was harder than I expected but I’m proud that I did it. It’s really important to keep raising funds as the work our centre does is so incredibly important for local cats. I rehomed cats Mylo and Mikey, who mean the world to me, so it is a cause very close to my heart.”

www.justgiving.com/ClaraYoudenandSarahWhitmore

Gateshead cyclist Tom Parker (58) is a volunteer fundraiser for Cats Protection, who has had rescue cats most of his married life. Tom’s challenge is to cycle a 26-mile loop from Gateshead via Wylam and Wallsend, in aid of the charity’s Gateshead & Newcastle Branch.

He said: “As a keen cyclist, I decided that this was an ideal opportunity to raise much needed money to support my favourite ‘non-human’ charity in extraordinary times.

“I rediscovered my love of cycling four years ago as a means to maintain my physical and mental well-being between rounds of anti-cancer immunotherapy treatment. Fortunately, I’m fully recovered, but I have retained my love of cycling as a means to stay fit.”

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/tom-s-2-6-challenge1091

Norfolk cat care assistant Leah Snowden (29), will stage a 26-hour sponsored sit-in at the charity’s Downham Market Adoption Centre. She said: “I’ll spend more than a day and night sitting and sleeping in one of our feline maternity pens at the centre. With the lockdown this is a good time to do it, as being confined is something we are all struggling with. It should be really interesting as I’ll see life from a cat’s perspective and what it’s like for cats in care.”

Leah rehomed a silver tabby called Lord Rufus four years ago. She said: “He’s a massive part of my life and was even Mr July in Cats Protection’s 2020 calendar. Cats Protection does amazing work and I am super proud to be part of the team at our centre. I see first-hand what a difference we make to the cats lives. I hope I raise some much-needed funds at this uncertain time.”

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/leah-s-2-6-challenge2020

Cardiff fitness fan Louise Smith (39) has set herself a challenge to do 26 minutes of yoga with her cat and film it for all to see. Louise, from Rumney, said: “I have been learning yoga via YouTube during lockdown and I thought it was a good idea to use this challenge to improve my positions. My cat always tries to get involved when I’m practising, which can be quite challenging, especially if I’m on all fours, or on my back.

“My cat Vanian, named after Dave the singer with The Damned, came from Cats Protection in Bridgend. He was born there but was the last one left as he was quite quiet. His more lively brothers and sisters went first, along with the mother. He was very timid when I had him and it took a bit of time to get him to open up. He can be a little anxious about being left alone but he also likes loads of fussing and snuggles on his own terms.”

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/louise-smith188

St Albans cat-lover Emily Ayres (41) will run a marathon through local woodland over the course of a week, in aid of Cats Protection and Parkinsons. Emily rescued her cat after he spent six months unclaimed.

Emily said: “Mikey was four years old when I got him from a local rescue centre. I have had him for around 10 years so he is getting on a bit, but he is still healthy and active. He very much enjoys having me home all the time as he loves company and all the attention. He has been great comfort and company for me during lock down.”

https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/EmilyAyers

Sussex Cats Protection volunteer Karen Middleton (53) and her sons James (13) and Ben (15) plan to run for 26 minutes, but that is just the warm up. She will also complete 26 yoga poses over 26 days, accompanied by her two playful black cats Boris and Jasper, rescue brothers from the National Cat Adoption Centre in Chelwood Gate.

Karen of Hartfield, said: “It’s been really good fun getting ready for this, especially with the children. It has been something for us to focus on during lockdown. The only problem is with Jasper; he’s in on all the action and he likes to sprawl across my yoga mat. I wouldn’t want to flatten him.”

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/karen-s-2-6-challenge2020 

Sleaford horserider Karen Sheldon (58), who is self-isolating and classed as vulnerable, plans to walk 26 times round the paddock with her horse Teena. She is raising money for three charities close to her heart; Cats Protection’s Sleaford and District Branch, where she is branch co-ordinator, World Horse Welfare, former home to her horse Teena, and The Multiple Sclerosis Society.

“I was first diagnosed with MS 29 years ago. I have been very lucky in that, although I have slight problems with mobility, I can walk several miles although I will be tired at the end. Unfortunately, not all people are so fortunate and humans need lots of help at the moment too.”

Karen became a life member of Cats Protection in 1992 when she rescued cats from a former branch in Lincoln. Since then she has re-homed many cats and dedicated a great deal of time and work to Cats Protection.

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/kj-sheldon

Dancer Elaine Eyres will attempt 26 triple-time steps, despite not having worn tap shoes in years. https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ElaineEyers

Surrey dancer Leanne Sternalski-Goodman is taking part in a 26 minute online dance off dressed as a T-Rex dinosaur, raising funds for Cats Protection’s East Surrey, Caterham and Redhill Branch. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/cpeastsurrey-dinodanceoff

Cat fan Claire Onody is walking 26,000 steps in one day to prepare for the Zambia Big Cat Challenge for Cats Protection.

Manchester runner Lorraine Griffiths is running 12.6 miles on Sunday, as she was due to run London and Manchester Marathons. https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LorraineGriffiths1

Like many charities, Cats Protection does not receive UK Government funding and its work is largely funded by donations and the fundraising efforts of staff, volunteers and supporters.

Cats Protection’s Fundraising Mass Participation Officer, Zoe Thompson, said: “While our centres and branches are closed to the public, our dedicated staff and volunteers are still here for the cats in care. We can only continue to do this good work with the ongoing support of fundraising, sponsored events and donations.

“We need help from our band of supporters who have always been supremely generous and appreciative of our teams who look after cats all year round. We know they won’t forget us now. They’re here for the cats too.”

To register for the 2.6 Challenge: https://www.cats.org.uk/the26challenge

Don’t forget to share photos and videos using #HereForTheCats and #TwoPointSixChallenge.

People’s Assembly Scotland: No return to ‘normal’

With most of the major Trade Unions and Trades Councils in Scotland as affiliates, coupled with representation from political organisations across the Scottish political spectrum, the People’s Assembly Scotland can rightly claim to be the largest Anti Austerity force north of the border (writes PAS chairman PHIL McGARRY).

Last Saturday (18th April 2020) the People’s Assembly Scotland steering group held an online meeting. Attendance was higher than usual, and it was agreed to issue a statement with our concerns about how governments on both sides of the border have performed in recent weeks.

Our statement is lengthy in order to offer the widest range of views expressed wider circulation; we also offer suggestions as to what happens once this is over.

In issuing this statement to the press it is in the hope that its publication will encourage discussion on what happens at the end of this emergency.

 When this crisis has passed there should be no return to “normal”.

We need to salute those we have lost and those key workers who have served our people well despite being undervalued by those in power. This should be with both national and local demonstrations and rallies under the banner of thanks but no return to the old “normal”. No return to the “normal” of low paid precarious work and bogus self-employment but for recognition with a rise in pay backdated to long before the start of the crisis.

Anything less would be an insult to the memory of all who have died whether in their workplace or as a result of governments inaction and unpreparedness.

The PAS Statement:

PEOPLE’S ASSEMBLY SCOTLAND STATEMENT ON THE CURRENT CRISIS

The failings of the Tory government and the blind tacit following of their strategy by the Scottish Government has all contributed to the current disastrous situation we now face in all our front-line services, resulting in the unnecessary deaths of many workers and the general population at large. This added to the number of deaths in the community caused in part by the Scottish government’s unpreparedness is a national scandal.

The Tories initially pronounced a policy of herd immunity, where acceptable losses should and would be accepted, because those losses would be in the lower classes. Where the protection of corporations and the financial system was their paramount priority.

The Tories and the Scottish Government are still failing to adhere to the World Health Organization’s guidelines of, test, trace contacts and isolate those individuals.

They suppressed the conclusions of a cross government pandemic drill codenamed Exercise Cygnus that took place in 2016, which accurately predicted that the NHS would be plunged into crisis by an infectious and deadly disease.

This crisis in the NHS and Social Care is the direct result of cuts to all public services by first, the Tory Lib Dem coalition and then subsequent Tory Governments. New Labour have a case to answer here as well with privatisation in the NHS and the cuts to public services they implemented when in power.

A total lack of preparation has resulted in the ongoing fiasco around ventilators and PPE. We were told not to worry, there is plenty of PPE, yet a RAF flight to Turkey brought at current usage only two days’ worth of supplies. But it matters not as private corporations like Burberry and Dyson are now reaping rewards.

On testing and tracking the list of failings and broken promises grows daily with targets continually being missed, a tactic the Scottish Government are also failing on as they have blindly followed Westminster policies from day one. SNP Govt has not used existing devolved powers to better protect us.

Other countries who handled this crisis far better, such as Denmark, New Zealand and Taiwan. All acted early on and have reduced the death rate. Angela Merkel, the Chancellor of Germany, told her country to “take it seriously” and she did. Testing began right from the get-go. Germany jumped right over the phases of denial, as seen below. Germany’s numbers are far below its European neighbours.

Data from the European Centre for Disease Control as of April 12, 2020

https://www.forbes.com/sites/avivahwittenbergcox/2020/04/13/what-do-countries-with-the-best-coronavirus-reponses-have-in-common-women-leaders/#486668633dec

While other countries heeded WHO advice and acted appropriately, our governments all but gave up contact tracing and did nothing. Mass gatherings, concerts, racing and Champions League football all continued unchanged and schools and pubs remained open.

Currently across the country front line workers are putting their lives on the line.

Who are these key workers that we all rely on to survive this crisis?

NHS, Porters, Security, Admin, Cleaners, Nurses and Doctors

Social Care workers both public and private

Transport and shipping workers

Local Government workers across all sectors

Maintenance and construction workers

Retail and warehouse workers

Postal and delivery workers

Manufacturing workers

Few of these essential workers would be allowed entry to our countries due to proposed restrictive immigrations laws by the current government.

It will soon be International Workers Memorial Day and the mantra of “Remember the dead but fight for the living” will have an even greater resonance this year. Workers are not being adequately protected, resulting in the deaths of frontline workers across all sectors.

The TUC has requested a national one minutes silence on 28 April to commemorate/honour workers, doctors, nurses, care workers, bus drivers etc who have caught and died from virus at work. Our STUC should also adopt this simple measure as a show of solidarity.

Action is required now by all three Governments across Britain.

Manufacturing companies across all sectors that can be diversified should be ordered to switch production to PPE, respirators and all the other necessary equipment required by all our frontline services.

We need to follow Test, Test, Test, trace and track, not just in the NHS but wider

Public transport is now seen as a front-line necessity, it should be nationalised.

Social Care is in the direct firing line with the lack of PPE putting all workers in danger. All Social Care should be brought into the public domain.

We need a nationalised pharmaceutical company.

Once this crisis has passed, we will be faced with a situation much worse than the financial crash of 2008. The COVID-19 pandemic should not be blamed for, yet another severe cyclical crisis of the capitalist system caused by corporate ownership of the economy and the anarchy of market forces.

This crisis only underlines the inability of capitalism, especially our privatised, free-market neoliberal model, to meet public health and environmental emergencies.

According to official UK estimates and the latest analysis from the UN Council on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), bailing out private enterprise in Britain will cost at least £350bn over the coming period.

We must prepare a mass campaign uniting People’s Assembly groups alongside the STUC, Trade Unions, Trade Union Councils and all other community campaigning organisations against the onslaught we will be faced with.

We cannot go back to business as usual, where the cost of this crisis will fall yet again on the poorest. Where all frontline services which we all rely on, will once again face further cuts to balance the government’s books. Ensuring the protection of the financial industry and the continuing dominance of corporate power will be the foundation of all that they propose.

The People’s Assembly Scotland last year re-launched its own vision of what can replace austerity. A vision of investment where we build and protect our services. Our booklet “In place of austerity – A Programme for the People” gives a base and starting point for the discussions and organisation we need to be having now.

Both “In Place of Austerity” and the joint People’s Assembly and Unite Community Universal Credit guide can be found on the People’s Assembly Scotland Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/752289384786607/files/

 We support the call from the TUC for a public inquiry looking into the “grotesque” failure to provide frontline workers with adequate personal protective equipment.

We hope that the STUC will echo this and call for a similar enquiry here in Scotland.

When this crisis has passed there should be no return to “normal”. We need to salute those we have lost and those key workers who have served our people well despite being undervalued by those in power. This should be with both national and local demonstrations and rallies under the banner of thanks but no return to the old “normal”.

No return to the “normal” of low paid precarious work and bogus self-employment but for recognition with a rise in pay backdated to long before the start of the crisis.

Anything less would be an insult to the memory of all who have died whether in their workplace or as a result of governments inaction and unpreparedness.

Draft Peoples Assembly Scotland Press Statement on the current crisis (1) (2)

PPE access extended to all social care providers

Everyone who provides social care will have access to appropriate PPE under new arrangements announced by the Scottish Health Secretary.

From Monday (27 April), local Hubs will distribute PPE supplies to the whole of the social care sector where normal supply routes have not been successful. These hubs will extend their provision to include all social care providers, and unpaid or family carers and personal assistants.

During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, global supply chains have been put under immense pressure and that is why the Scottish Government has set up supplies of PPE to support the social care sector from the national stock.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “The Scottish Government values the importance of everyone who is providing social care and we want to ensure they have access to appropriate PPE.

“As we respond to the challenges from global scarcity of PPE, we have worked with partners to agree an improved model that will ensure all social care providers have access to supplies from national NHS stock.

“This has only been possible because of a shared aim to ensure the right PPE gets to the right people at the right time and to keep everyone safe.

“In the coming weeks, we will collectively monitor how this model is operating, identifying challenges quickly and taking action as we deal with the evolving nature of the pandemic.”

Health and Social Care spokesperson for COSLA, Councillor Stuart Currie said: “COSLA welcomes this announcement which will ensure PPE provision for unpaid and family carers and personal assistants. 

“Local Government has worked with partners across the sector to develop this model to ensure those who are supporting vulnerable people within their communities and all parts of the workforce have access to the PPE they need.”

Businesses rally to the cause in the battle against coronavirus

The First Minister has praised those manufacturers and businesses which have stepped in to support frontline services by diversifying production lines, increasing capacity and exploring new distribution routes during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Continue reading Businesses rally to the cause in the battle against coronavirus

Faith Leaders unite to thank NHS and frontline workers

Faith Leaders were brought together in a video by the Edinburgh Interfaith Association expressing their gratitude to all NHS workers and frontline staff.

The video was released just before the nation joined to clap the NHS on Thursday evening.

EIFA Executive Director Iain Stewart said, “We are all united across our different faith traditions in solidarity to come together to express our gratitude to all NHS workers and frontline staff.

“In all of our traditions caring for your neighbour is central. Our NHS staff and carers all exemplify what it means to care for another. This short video is just a small way to say thank you from across all the faith communities of Edinburgh.

“We are eternally grateful for all they do for us, every day putting their lives on the line in order to save the lives of others. There is no better sacrifice and we just all just want to say thank you.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbACHNyoBOE&feature=youtu.be

NHS Lothian announces expansion of COVID-19 testing

NHS Lothian has announced a further expansion of its COVID-19 staff and health and social care worker testing.  The developments, which include opening a new test facility at West Lothian College, will provide additional options for accessing coronavirus (COVID-19) testing.

To date, over 2,300 tests have been carried at the Chalmers Sexual Health Centre in Edinburgh providing reassurance to staff, helping to reduce unnecessary absence and bolstering frontline services.

Chalmers and the new West Lothian facility both offer appointment based drive-through testing, where individuals remain in their vehicle as a nose and throat swab is taken.

Recognising that not everyone has access to a car, the service has worked to develop a number of additional options for access. This includes the ability to carry out appointment based bike-through and walk-through tests, as well as working with taxi providers to ensure staff can easily get to and from the test facilities.

This work means that if staff or health and social care workers, such as local authority care home staff or private sector carers have symptoms, they can be tested within the first 72 hours, and if negative, and appropriate, can be released from the requirement to isolate and return to work, and so can their household contacts.

The staff testing facility at Chalmers has been running since 26 March 2020 and has already provided a huge amount of information enabling NHS Lothian to expand and develop the service.

Dr. Alastair Leckie, Director of Occupational Health Services, NHS Lothian said, that the teams have gained an enormous amount of practical knowledge and statistics, as well as insight from those who have accessed the service, all of which has been used to help shape these new developments.

He said, “Our staff have told us time and time again that they want to be at work, helping patients and supporting colleagues. Testing provides reassurance for staff, it helps to get them back to work quicker, and reduces unnecessary periods of self-isolation.

“A monumental amount of work has been done in a short period of time to further expand our testing facilities, ensuring that we not only have more test sites, but that there are a range of options available in how staff can access these.

“I am incredibly proud of the work that has already been done, and which will continue in the days, weeks and months ahead, as together we continue to respond to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.”

While the Chalmers service was initially developed to support with NHS staff testing, since 5 April it has also offered testing for health and social care staff working within the four immediate Health and Social Care Partnerships, as well as those employed by private care providers.

Allister Short, Chief Officer, West Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership said that not being able to access testing had been a huge concern and worry for health and social care staff who wanted to be at work supporting and caring for people.

He said, “It is great that the NHS Lothian testing facilities are available for health and social care staff. It not only helps to protect vulnerable service users and care home residents, but also reduces periods of unnecessary self-isolation for our staff.”

Jackie Galbraith, Principal of West Lothian College said, “Since the start of the lockdown staff and students at West Lothian College have been working hard to help the NHS and key workers tackle the coronavirus.

“We donated all of our personal protective equipment to key workers, gave all of our food stock to local charities, and are working with partners to produce and distribute visors to frontline workers.

“Some of our staff and students have returned as practitioners to the health and social care sector, while others are volunteering to help people in need in local communities.

“With the launch of the new NHS COVID-19 testing station now our campus is being put to good use while college buildings remain closed to students and staff. We are very proud to play a part in reducing the impact of this pandemic.”

Dr Tracey Gillies, Medical Director, NHS Lothian, said around 100 tests were currently being carried out every day at the Chalmers site and of those around 80 per cent had already tested negative for COVID-19.

She added: “Providing access to testing for NHS and health and social care staff is critical. It not only gives reassurance, but enables these staff, if they feel well enough, to return to work.

“I would like to say a big thank you to all of the teams that have worked together to enable these testing developments to happen. This work is just one example of how NHS Lothian is responding to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but it encapsulates and illustrates the drive, determination, responsiveness and hard work that all our staff are demonstrating on a daily basis.”

Transport Secretary delivers daily coronavirus update

Grant Shapps announces measures to ensure transport boosts the national response to COVID-19 and paying tribute to the transport workers who have kept vital freight and passenger services running.

Good afternoon, and welcome to today’s Downing Street press conference.

I’m pleased to be joined today by Dr Jenny Harries.

Latest data

Before I talk about the latest steps we are taking to defeat coronavirus, let me update you on the latest information from the COBR data file.

I can report that through the government’s monitoring and testing programme, as of today (24 April 2020)

  • 612,031 tests for coronavirus have now been carried out in the UK, including 28,532 tests yesterday
  • 143,464 people have tested positive, that’s an increase of 5,386 cases since yesterday
  • 17,049 people are currently in hospital with coronavirus in the UK, down from 17,615 on 22 April and down 10% on last week
  • and sadly, of those in hospital with the virus, 19,506 have now died – that’s an increase of 684 fatalities since yesterday

We express our deepest condolences to the families and friends of these victims.

We must not forget that each of these statistics represents a personal tragedy.

Transport importance

Despite the continued challenges ahead, as we prepare for the next stage in our battle to beat this pandemic, there are tentative signs we are making progress.

The main reason for that is the way Britain has responded to the guidance to stay at home and maintain social distancing over the past few weeks.

By respecting these measures, the whole country is slowing the spread of the virus. And by avoiding public transport, you’re freeing up space for critical workers who rely on buses and trains to travel safely.

The continued operation of both passenger and freight transport is critically important to our resilience as a country.

So today I’m announcing a new package of measures to ensure transport boosts our national response to COVID-19.

Freight

First, we’re announcing a far-reaching package to safeguard the flow of essential goods into – and across – the country.

I can announce the government has secured a trilateral agreement along with the French and Irish governments which commits our nations to keeping freight routes open throughout the crisis…

Bringing in life-saving medicines, food and many other essential goods…..

Allowing us to meet the needs of our countries during this difficult time.

Operators on many of these routes have been under rising financial pressures due to falling demand.

Since many of them bring in crucial goods like medicines, raw materials and chemicals to purify water, it is important to guarantee the continuation of services.

So, we’re protecting ferry routes between Great Britain and Northern Ireland with funding of up to £17 million.

We’re also taking action to secure services around the United Kingdom, including up to £10.5 million for links to the Isle of Wight and the Scilly Isles, allowing critical freight to continue to support families in every part of our country.

And we’re making sure that air links to Belfast and Derry-Londonderry in Northern Ireland will also continue – these routes are particularly important for critical workers.

Thanks to the measures I’ve announced today, we are safeguarding 5 ferry and 2 air routes between Great Britain and Northern Ireland; and 26 different freight routes between Britain, France, Belgium, Spain, the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Norway and Sweden.

Support for freight services: new funding will ensure critical goods continue to flow into the UK.

 

Transport Support Unit

Second, we have launched a Transport Support Unit (TSU) dedicated to fighting this pandemic.

At the beginning of this crisis we reduced services like rail and buses, whilst securing their continuation to enable critical workers and others to make essential journeys.

Lower ridership means we have spare transport capacity which I have directed to be used for logistical tasks in the fight against this virus.

By making use of the people and the resources of the Department for Transport, its agencies and arm’s length bodies, we will be helping NHS trusts and local resilience groups to fight the pandemic.

We now have over 8,500 specialist volunteers from across the transport sector.

And around 9,000 vehicles which can support the national effort.

This includes 4 fixed-wing aircraft owned by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (one of them a Boeing 737), helicopters, ships and trains.

Together they will help move emergency patients and medical supplies, deliver personal protective equipment (PPE) to hospitals, and distribute food parcels to vulnerable people.

And vehicles from Highways England will act as mobile COVID-19 testing centres.

Network Rail is also making available its 7 regional distribution centres which can be used to support the effort.

This work is underway and I would like to thank all those taking part, like the Network Rail engineers who helped fit out the Nightingale hospital in Manchester.

As the country works hard to beat this virus, it’s vital we come together and help each other.

So, the Transport Support Unit is getting to work, helping frontline staff, and making full use of the significant resources at its disposal.

Transport Support Unit: bringing together the whole transport sector to support frontline services.

 

Drones

I have also given the green light to trials of drones delivering medical supplies.

Earlier this year, we awarded £28 million to Southampton and Portsmouth to develop a Future Transport Zone.

As part of that initiative, £8 million was earmarked for testing drones, and how they might be used for delivering goods in the years and decades ahead.

Of course, now we have an urgent need, so we’re making use of that testing programme as part of our response to COVID-19.

As a result, I have fast-tracked trials to begin next week to carry medical supplies and equipment to St Mary’s Hospital, near Newport on the Isle of Wight.

Drone trials: drones will be used to send medical supplies to NHS St Mary's Hospital, supporting communities on the isle of Wight.

 

Trams

Finally, we have made funding available today to keep England’s trams operating.

This will keep open 5 light rail networks in Greater Manchester, Sheffield, Nottingham, West Midlands and Tyne and Wear …

Allowing essential local routes to remain open.

Once again ensuring that critical workers can travel during this crisis.

Transport workers

All these new initiatives build on the very considerable work we’ve seen across transport since this crisis began.

The government has taken widespread action to support the industry.

For example, we’ve stepped in to keep trains operating…

And to keep buses running.

We’ve worked with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and airlines to bring thousands of Britons home from abroad.

As of today, I can also confirm there are no British holidaymakers left stranded on cruise ships anywhere in the world.

To help motorists we’ve waived MOT renewals until the end of the outbreak, ensuring that vulnerable people are able to stay at home without the worry.

But I want to pay particular tribute to the transport critical workers who have gone above and beyond to keep vital freight and passenger services running…

To keep hospitals and chemists supplied with medical goods…

To ensure supermarkets are stocked with fresh food…

And to maintain deliveries of essential energy and fuel supplies.

From hauliers and train drivers to those keeping our ports and airports open.

Each and every one of us depends on the transport lifeline they provide.

They are part of the army of critical workers helping to fight this terrible scourge.

Five tests

But before we consider it safe to amend the guidance, we must be satisfied we have met the 5 tests set by the First Secretary.

To ensure….

  1. That the NHS can continue to cope
  2. That the daily death rate falls sustainably and consistently
  3. That the rate of infection is falling
  4. That the operational challenges have been met
  5. And, most importantly, that there is no risk of a second peak

Concluding remarks

We don’t yet know when that day will come, but I do know it will arrive sooner if motorists and others continue to only make essential journeys.

The actions I’ve announced today will ensure that transport can continue to serve the nation during this crisis…..

Keep us supplied with everything we need to stay at home.

Yet also ensure that the infrastructure required to emerge from this pandemic stands-ready to serve us all when the time comes.

Social Shielding already saving lives

Asthma UK & British Lung Foundation, the UK’s leading respiratory charity, has reiterated the need for everyone who meets the government’s ‘extremely vulnerable’ criteria to follow social shielding guidelines.

Those who have still not received an official ‘shielding’ letter but do meet the criteria are urged to contact their GP or hospital doctor as soon as possible. Social shielding involves staying indoors and avoiding face-to-face contact, utilising government voluntary support services to get the supplies they need.

A recent survey by the charity has revealed that 97% of those with chronic lung conditions in Scotland, who had received an official shielding letter, have said they were taking the measures seriously.

Of the 1188 Scots surveyed, just under 18% of respondents had received a letter to shield from the Scottish Government.

Other interesting findings from the survey include:

  • Anxiety among those with lung conditions is high, with almost 70% of respondents reporting their COVID-19 related a score of 8/10 or above.
  • 58% of smokers have said they are planning to quit due to COVID-19
  • 46% of people with lung conditions reported a disruption to their usual care due to COVID-19.

Joseph Carter, Head of Asthma UK & British Lung Foundation Scotland, said: “It is crucial that everyone who is entitled to a shielding letter, even at this late stage, receives one. The evidence shows they work, and people do take the advice seriously.

“This is a marathon, not a sprint and there’s still a long way to go. Receiving these letters enables people to access the various resources and support available to them, to enable them to shield effectively and keep themselves safe.”

Andrew Whittamore, Clinical Lead for Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation and a practicing GP, said: “Everyone with a chronic lung condition, including asthma and COPD, has been classified as being ‘high risk’.

“Everyone in this group should be strict about following the social distancing advice from the government. This group may not get a letter and do not necessarily need to shield but may choose to do so.

“We know that shielding isn’t as easy as it sounds, so it’s important that people only go through it if they’re in these ‘extremely vulnerable’ groups. A smaller group of people who are classed as ‘extremely vulnerable’ do need to go further and follow the shielding advice.

“It’s vital that anyone who is in these groups, but have not yet received a letter, contact their GP immediately. This will enable them to access all the Government support which is being provided to help them shield. Further advice can be found on the Asthma UK & British Lung Foundation websites.”

Further Advice:

  • For the latest Covid-19 health and shielding advice for people with asthma, visit the Asthma UK website at: asthma.org.uk/coronavirus
  • For the latest Covid-19 advice for people with all other lung conditions, visit the British Lung Foundation website: blf.org.uk/support-for-you/coronavirus
  • VIDEO: For anyone who has a lung condition and is still unsure if they should be shielding or not, the British Lung Foundation’s Medical Director Nick Hopkinson has produced this helpful video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xUmuf1wcLk

The NHS Is Open campaign launched

New campaign urges people to contact a doctor

A national media campaign has been launched to encourage people to seek medical help for urgent health issues which are not related to coronavirus (COVID-19).

Figures indicate patients are delaying seeing their GP during the pandemic and there has been a drop in urgent suspected cancer referrals, and a reduction in families bringing children for immunisation.

Reasons may include wishing to reduce the strain on the NHS, or concerns over becoming infected with COVID-19 as well as the misconception that doctors do not want to see patients.

The NHS is Open campaign urges people to contact their GP or local hospital if they have urgent health worries.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “It is vital for people to know that GP surgeries and hospitals are still there for them if needed.

“While we appreciate the public doing all they can to reduce the strain on our NHS at this challenging time, if people have serious health concerns or symptoms, it’s just as important as ever to seek immediate medical assistance.

“This pandemic does not mean we’ve stopped the fight against cancer, heart attacks or other serious health conditions. It is vital people continue to raise any health worries with their doctor at the earliest possible time and continue to attend regular check-ups and appointments when they are invited to do so.”

Dr Carey Lunan, a working GP and Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners in Scotland, will feature in TV adverts as part of the campaign. She said: “The NHS is open and it is safe. Appointments may feel a little different – they might happen on the phone or even by videolink. If people need to be seen face-to-face, we can arrange that too.

“Accident and Emergency units are also still open and able to help. We are here for patients and we want to hear from anyone if they have an urgent medical problem.”

The marketing campaign will run on TV, radio and digital channels for an initial three weeks.

The campaign will encourage people to call their GP surgery, or 111 out of hours, if they have urgent health concerns. In emergencies, they should still dial 999.

Attendance at A&E and Paediatrics in Scotland has halved during COVID-19.

Attendance at A&E in week commencing 29 March was 11,020 and in week commencing 5 April 11,263 compared to normal average attendance of 25,000 per week. Paediatrics attendance is down 50 per cent in Scotland, with late presentation becoming an issue.

There has been a significant drop (72 per cent) in urgent suspected cancer referrals, as fewer people are presenting their symptoms to their GP practice.

ANZACs and Gallipoli to be remembered at touching online service

With the country in lockdown due to the ongoing coronavirus epidemic, Armed Forces charity Legion Scotland will today broadcast a ‘virtual’ service online to commemorate ANZAC and Gallipoli Day, Saturday 25th April.

The event usually takes place at the Scottish National War Memorial, at Edinburgh Castle, and provides a touching show of comradeship and remembrance to all those who fought at Gallipoli against the Ottoman Empire during the First World War.

Observed on the 25th of April each year, ANZAC Day was originally devised to honour the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC). It now represents a day when Antipodeans remember the sacrifices made in all conflicts. It is also an important day for Turkey as they remember those they lost in the conflict.

Due to lockdown restrictions, Legion Scotland has taken the decision to record footage of the CEO and Head of Events at Legion Scotland and the National Padre laying wreaths and poppy crosses at Comely Bank Cemetery, in Edinburgh.

The virtual service will also feature contributions from Edinburgh Lord Provost Frank Ross; Sir Alistair Irwin, the National Chairman of Legion Scotland; various Service chiefs; and the Australian, New Zealand and Turkish Consulates; as well as music from Legion Scotland singing sensation Amy Hawthorn.

The service will be conducted by Rev Dr Karen Campbell. Legion Scotland branches have also been asked to send in video footage of their Standard Bearers paying their respects so these can be incorporated in the footage.

ANZAC Day services normally commence at dawn, coinciding with the moment ANZAC forces landed on the Gallipoli peninsula in April 1915. Saturday’s broadcast will begin at 5:42am via the Legion Scotland’s Facebook and Twitter channels, and will be available for the public to view again at any time thereafter.

The Australian and New Zealand Consulates will be sending out their own content to complement what Legion Scotland has done.

Dr Claire Armstrong, the CEO at Legion Scotland, said: “I believe it is important for people to know that even in lockdown we are able to create an alternative way to pay our respects and to bring people together virtually on the 25th April to commemorate ANZAC Day. I would like to thank all who are participating in the virtual service and to those that have provided footage for us to use.”

Dr Armstrong added: “As the custodians of Remembrance in Scotland, our involvement in services of commemoration like these is so important and allows all members of our communities to join together to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, or who returned from battles in foreign lands with life-changing injuries.

“We will remember them and, even during this unprecedented pandemic, our enduring message of comradeship comes very much to the fore.”