Coronavirus: #CommunityResponse

Leaders from different sectors have joined forces to drive a crucial Community Action Response to encourage everyone to do what they can to support their communities and particularly vulnerable and isolated people during Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

Launched by Eden Project Communities with partners The National Lottery Community Fund, Nextdoor, Neighbourhood Watch, Campaign to End Loneliness and Eco Attractions Group, the Community Action Response has been created because of the unprecedented challenge that Coronavirus presents for people in every neighbourhood in the UK.

Eden Project Communities is a UK wide network that has grown out of community building campaign The Big Lunch, which reaches over six million people in communities every year. The organisations are calling for everyone to take steps that will help communities cope when the worst impacts of the virus hit.

Community Action Response – five things you can do:

Think of others, consider your actions & be kind: People in every community will face the challenges of Covid-19 in some way – from needing basic provisions to help while they are unwell.
Connect and reach out to your neighbours: as self-isolation increases, we need to find new ways to stay connected and check in on one another for our physical and mental wellbeing. Share phone numbers and stay in touc
Make the most of local online groups: Keep up to date, share information and be a positive part of your local community conversations using platforms like Nextdoor.
Support vulnerable or isolated people: different groups in our communities are at increased risk and social isolation and loneliness are key concerns for all ages. There are things you can do like volunteering for local support services or donating to food banks to help.
Share accurate information and advice: Support anyone who may be anxious about Covid-19. Sign post them to the correct advice from Public Health England and encourage people to follow the correct hygiene practices.

Research from The Big Lunch shows nearly a fifth of us in the UK have no-one in our neighbourhoods outside our immediate family we could call on if we needed help or support.

With the rapid spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19) increasingly likely, this is a real risk and combined with the need to self-isolate this gap in our community connections needs to be closed.

The research also reported that more than 36 million people feel distant or very distant from their neighbours, yet three quarters of us believe it would be better for our communities if we were closer to them.

The Big Lunch commissioned independent research published in their Closing the Distance report to explore how connected people in communities in the UK feel to one another.

Bringing people together to advocate for community action, Peter Stewart, Executive Director of the Eden Project said: “Through our work with communities UK wide we see the difference that people working together can have.

“Neighbourly support can make a huge difference in a world fraught with challenge. The current threat is set to impact all of us in one form or another, and stronger local connections within communities are vital to see this crisis out.

“That’s why we’ve joined forces with our friends and partners to call on people everywhere to take positive action to support and care for each other in the coming weeks and months.”

Dawn Austwick, CEO The National Lottery Community Fund said: “As the largest funder of community activity in the UK, we know community life and connections can help to build bonds of support during difficult times. Being kind, offering support and thinking of one another makes neighbourhoods and communities stronger together.

“This is particularly important for those who are more vulnerable and isolated. At The National Lottery Community Fund we support communities to thrive, this is why we’re pledging our support for this call to action in the coming weeks and months.”

Nick Lisher, Head of EMEA, Nextdoor, said: “Neighbourhoods, can be an essential source of support, information and help in challenging times.

“At Nextdoor, we see first-hand what’s possible when communities work together. Let’s use our resources collectively to help those who are vulnerable or isolated in this time of need. It’s time for us all to create a neighbourhood we can rely on.”

Ian Bretman, Neighbourhood Watch Chair said: “At this stressful time it is more important than ever that we come together to support our loved ones and communities, especially the isolated and vulnerable.

“We all perform different roles in our daily lives but we are also all neighbours and all have the ability to be a good neighbour at this crucial time. At Neighbourhood Watch, we are proud to be joining with our friends and partners to call on everyone to have a united community approach and be mindful of others through these five actions.”

Kate Shurety, Executive Director of the Campaign to End Loneliness said: “For many people there will be a tough, but necessary period of social isolation. Many of us will miss family and friends and taking part in our hobbies, interests and activities.

“It shows how important friendship and connection are in our lives, and how difficult it can be when they’re missing. This reminds us that for too many people their lives are often quite a lot like this. Research shows that half a million older people regularly experience these kinds of protracted periods of isolation, going at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone at all.”

Eden Project Communities is mobilising their grassroots community-based network and launching #CommunityResponse on social media to help share the actions. They also intend to further support communities in the coming days, weeks and months as needs become clear.

Communities across the country have already taken action to support vulnerable residents:

Top tips to help minimise coronavirus spread in the workplace

Specialist workplace and IT cleaning solutions company Techclean is reporting an unprecedented demand for its services as coronavirus continues its advance across the UK.

Having now been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation, coronavirus (COVID-19) has triggered a surge in bookings for Techclean’s PC and desktop cleaning services, as well as its deep cleaning and Dry Misting treatments.

Demand for Techclean’s services has far outstripped current technician availability and, as a result, the company has implemented measures to fast-track technician training and recruitment so that it can keep pace with customer requests. It has also put together a list of ten top tips on office hygiene which it is urging staff and businesses to follow during the coronavirus outbreak.

Techclean’s managing director, Nigel Toplis, commented: “Our priority is always to help staff and businesses keep their workplaces as healthy as possible.

“For those companies that are not able to access Techclean’s specialist cleaning services as quickly as they might like during this incredibly busy period, we have put together our top ten tips that can help minimise the spread of all germs, not just coronavirus, in the workplace.”

Techclean’s Coronavirus Top 10 Office Tips:

1: Go paperless – Paper is porous and absorbs bacteria, making it one of the easiest ways to spread germs around the office. Avoid the use of any paper circulars, send by email instead, and don’t share newspapers and magazines with colleagues, removing any magazines from reception areas. If a document has to be printed, make sure everyone has their own copy and don’t leave them lying around on desks to be picked up by someone else.

2: Don’t share – Avoid sharing telephone handsets and if you do have a hot-desk policy in your place of work, wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face after touching the keyboard or mouse. Ensure all cleaning protocols are strictly followed for call centre headsets.

3: Be wise and wipe! – Carry your own supply of anti-bacterial wipes and wipe your mouse, keyboard and telephone handset at the beginning and end of the day.

4: Get your own – Have your own supply of office essentials such as pens, calculator, hole punch and stapler. Many offices share these resources but at present it might be wise to bring in your own. And certainly, don’t share pens – you’d be amazed how many of us absent mindedly chew the end of our pen, any pen!

5: Be prepared – Keep a box of tissues and hand sanitiser on your desk. Use the latter regularly throughout the day. Dispose of the former as soon as they have been used and don’t forget to wash your hands whenever you sneeze or cough.

6: Bin it – Consider increasing the amount of waste disposal points around the office for discarded tissues and ensure that these are emptied regularly. Many offices no longer have a wastepaper basket under each desk and the further a tissue has to travel to dispose of it, the greater the chance of it being dropped or left by the photocopier.

7: Tea for one – The office tea round is one of the more social aspects of the working day, but for now the best advice is to make your own tea and coffee and make sure you have your own mug at work that only you use.

8: Kitchen cleanliness – Shared kitchens at work are hotspots for bugs. Make sure there is a regular washing up rota, use disposable paper towels and give worksurfaces, kettles, toasters and microwaves a regular clean with antibacterial wipes.

9: Desk detergent – Ensure your facilities team, in larger organisations, and cleaning staff are using anti-bacterial detergents and are regularly giving desks, meeting hubs and communal area surfaces a thorough cleanse.

10: If in doubt, stay at home – As of the 12^th March, the government advised anyone with a high temperature or new, continuous cough, to stay at home for seven days to self-isolate.

You can find the latest NHS advice online here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

Coronavirus: UK death toll doubles

wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
always wash your hands when you get home or into work
use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell

People are being urged to stay at home for seven days if they develop a high temperature or new continuous cough as part of an expanded public awareness campaign in the fight against COVID-19, UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced today.

Ten more people in the UK have died in the last 24 hours after testing positive for coronavirus. That doubles the number of UK fatalities so far, bringing the total number of deaths to 21.

For the first time, members of the public will see advice in TV adverts featuring Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty and voiced by actor Mark Strong as part of the government’s drive to ensure everyone knows the best way to limit and delay the spread of the COVID-19.

Building on the current campaign, which reinforces the importance of washing your hands more often, the next phase reflects the Westminster government’s shift into the ‘delay’ phase of its action plan to limit the spread of the virus.

A key part of this is asking people to self-isolate for seven days if they develop a high temperature or a new continuous cough – however mild.

As well as on TV, people will see and hear the campaign advice in newspapers and magazines, on drive-time radio, online and through social media and on billboards and large digital displays, including at bus stops.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “Coronavirus is the biggest public health crisis we have faced in a generation. It continues to spread both in the UK and around the world and we need to accept that sadly, many more of us will become infected.

“The government and the NHS are working 24/7 to fight this virus. We must all work together and play our own part in protecting ourselves and each other, as well as our NHS, from this disease. This expanded campaign will focus on ensuring the public knows exactly what they should be doing to keep themselves and others safe.

“Washing hands regularly for 20 seconds or more remains the single most important thing an individual can do, but we now also need to ask anyone with a high temperature or new continuous cough – however mild – to isolate yourself and stay at home for seven days. You should continue to follow our online clinical advice and not go to A&E or your GP if you develop mild symptoms.

“Combating this virus will require a national effort – we all have a role to play to slow its spread and protect the elderly and the vulnerable.”

This week, the UK’s Chief Medical Officers raised the risk to the public from moderate to high. The campaign offers clear, practical advice so the public can play their part in preventing and slowing the spread of the virus.

As per the current advice, the most important thing individuals can do to protect themselves remains washing their hands more often, for at least 20 seconds, with soap and water. Make sure you cough or sneeze into a tissue, put it in a bin and wash your hands.

The next phase of the awareness campaign also reiterates the importance of seeking help online by visiting NHS.uk/coronavirus to check your symptoms and follow the medical advice, rather than visiting your GP.

It also urges people with any symptoms to avoid contact with older and more vulnerable people. Where possible, we are urging people to visit the 111 website rather than calling, too, to ensure the phone service is readily available to those who need it.

Last week, the Prime Minister published a ‘battle plan’ for tackling the disease in the UK, which sets out plans for a range of scenarios. This week, the Prime Minister confirmed the UK has moved into the second stage of this plan, the ‘delay’ phase.

NHS, Public Health England and Local Authority Public Health teams up and down the country are working tirelessly to support everyone in need of advice, testing or treatment.

Since January, public health teams and world leading scientists have been working round the clock on the COVID-19 response, and government has been working with partners across the country to provide tailored advice to the public, travellers coming into the country and those most at risk from COVID-19.

However some believe the UK government is not doing enough to tackle the public health emergency.

More than 200 scientists have written to the government urging them to introduce tougher measures to tackle the spread of Covid-19.

In an open letter, a group of 229 scientists from UK universities say the government’s current approach will put the NHS under additional stress and “risk many more lives than necessary”.

The scientists also criticise comments made by the government’s chief scientific adviser about managing the spread of the infection to make the population immune.

UK_scientists_statement_on_coronavirus_measures

Spain and France have imposed sweeping new restrictions and the United States has added the UK to it’s travel ban. The Foreign and Commonwelth Office is now advising UK nationals not to travel to Spain.

A FCO spokesman said: “Due to Spain declaring a State of Emergency on 14 March, which imposes significant restrictions on movement throughout the country in response to the coronavirus outbreak, we are now advising against all but essential travel to Spain.”

Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel, said: “With countries, including the US, banning travel from the UK and more airlines pulling routes from their schedules, passengers urgently need clear information about their upcoming journeys, the support they will be offered if abroad and plans to ensure they get home safely.

“For anyone whose return flight to the UK is cancelled, it’s rarely a good idea to accept a refund as doing so ends the airline’s duty of care to you. Instead insist on the airline meeting its obligations to get you home on the earliest available alternative flight – with another carrier if necessary.

“The CAA must monitor the situation closely to ensure airlines are fulfilling all of their legal duty to passengers when flights are disrupted, so that we don’t see a repeat of the situation in Italy where passengers were left stranded.”

Any passengers who incur additional costs as a result of being rerouted home via an indirect route should retain all receipts to have these costs reimbursed by their airline.

Saturday’s figures rose by 36 in 24 hours in Scotland – the highest daily rise so far.

Public should only contact GP or NHS 111 if symptoms worsen.

Surveillance testing for COVID-19 (coronavirus) will be expanded to monitor the spread of the virus in the community. The programme will be extended to GP practices covering up to 1.2 million people across all health boards in Scotland.

It will test people presenting with relevant symptoms, including with flu-like symptoms or general respiratory illness and underlying health conditions. It will also support the continued testing of people admitted to hospital with symptoms.

People following the guidance to stay at home for seven days if they have mild symptoms of a new cough or raised temperature will not be routinely tested – and will continue to be advised to only phone NHS 111 or contact the GP if their condition worsens.

Surveillance testing will provide real-time information on how the virus is spreading in Scotland, which will inform NHS planning and allow resources to be directed where they are needed most.

Key workers such as NHS staff will continue to be tested if they show symptoms.

Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer said: “This new approach to testing will enable us to understand the pattern and spread of coronavirus in the community, to develop a clear assessment of the situation and to predict the peak number of cases, without having to test everyone with possible symptoms.

“Those with mild symptoms do not need to be tested. They should continue to stay at home for seven days and only contact their GP or 111 if their condition worsens.

“Everybody has a role to play in helping contain this outbreak by following the latest health advice and basic hygiene precautions such as washing hands frequently, not touching their face and covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.”

Letter from CMO – COVID-19 Implications of move to delay phase -13 Mar 2020

New measures to limit the impact of COVID-19 on the business community in Scotland were announced yesterday by Finance Secretary Kate Forbes.

The following steps will be put in place to support businesses during the 2020-21 financial year:

• a 75% rates relief for retail, hospitality and leisure sectors with a rateable value of less than £69,000 from 1 April 2020
• an £80 million fund to provide grants of at least £3,000 to small businesses in sectors facing the worst economic impact of COVID-19
• 1.6% rates relief for all properties across Scotland, effectively reversing the planned below inflation uplift in the poundage from 1 April 2020
• a fixed rates relief of up to £5,000 for all pubs with a rateable value of less than £100,000 from 1 April 2020

The Finance Secretary will also write to all local authorities urging them to respond positively to requests from rate payers for payment deferrals for a fixed period.

Ms Forbes said: “COVID-19 will have challenging implications for businesses and the economy over the coming weeks and months.

“As well as following the latest health and travel advice, it’s also crucial we consider the latest economic analysis and listen carefully to what the business community is telling us. We know that the tourism and hospitality sectors are facing immediate pressure, which is why we have directed support to them in particular.

“All rate-payers will benefit from a relief that effectively reverses the planned inflationary uplift in the poundage that was due to come into effect in April.

“The measures I’m announcing today will provide £320 million of assistance to Scottish business and ensures that all Non Domestic Rate consequentials we expect to receive from the UK Government associated with the COVID-19 outbreak will be used to provide Scottish business with support through what is likely to be a difficult time.

“We will also be making the case to the UK Government that, because of the larger number of small businesses in Scotland, we need additional resources to be able to provide further support.

“Businesses receiving support are being encouraged to operate with fair work principles including supporting staff to self-isolate when they need to and if they have caring responsibilities and to consider keeping staff in employment where at all possible.

“We continue to work closely with our partners to identify what further support is needed and I’d encourage any businesses with questions relating to the impact of COVID-19 to contact the helpline we launched this week.”

Coronavirus: Business Helpline goes live

A helpline providing businesses across Scotland with advice and guidance on COVID-19 (Coronavirus) has been announced by Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop.

The helpline, which is now live, will be open Monday to Friday, between 8.30am to 5.30pm.

Based at Scottish Enterprise’s call centre in Clydebank, advisers across Scotland will answer questions from businesses related to COVID-19. The helpline will also help the Scottish Government identify the current challenges facing businesses.

On Thursday the First Minister confirmed that the Scottish and UK Governments are moving from the containment phase to delay, and that large gatherings of over 500 people will be cancelled to support the resilience of emergency services.

The first death of a Coronavirus patient in Scotland was confirmed yesterday.

Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Catherine Calderwood said: “I am saddened to report that a patient in Scotland who has tested positive for Coronavirus has died in hospital. I offer my deepest sympathy to their friends and family at this difficult time.

“The patient, who was being treated by Lothian Health Board was an older person who had underlying health conditions. No further information will be available to protect patient confidentiality.”

There are currently twenty confirmed cases in the NHS Lothian area.

The Chief Medical Officer has advised people with mild symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 including continuing coughing, or a fever or a temperature of above 37.8 should self-isolate for seven days.

Those who have been in contact with someone who is experiencing symptoms should only self-isolate if they begin to experience symptoms.

During a meeting with representatives from Scotland’s business support organisations including the STUC this week, Ms Hyslop stressed the importance of everyone following the latest COVID-19 advice.

Ms Hyslop said: “Scotland is well-prepared for a significant outbreak of coronavirus but people have a vital role to play in helping us contain any outbreak by following the latest health and travel advice.

“This situation presents a significant risk to global and domestic economic activity. That is why today we are launching a business helpline which will provide companies in Scotland with the support and guidance they need to respond appropriately.

“We continue to work closely with our partners to identify what further support businesses need. For example, the Minister for Local Government and Planning and the Chief Planner wrote to all planning authorities this week encouraging them to relax their approach to the enforcement of planning restrictions on shop delivery times and opening hours.

“I also chaired a meeting with representatives from Scotland’s business support organisations including the STUC to hear their concerns and provide reassurance that the Scottish Government will do everything in our power to protect the workforce, businesses and our economy.

“I’d also encourage everyone to refer to the new guidance on COVID-19 that includes workplace advice on reducing the spread of infection.

“Following the UK Government’s budget we also require urgent clarification on what funding Scotland will receive from the announcements made by the UK Government, at a time when prospects for the economy and public finances remain very uncertain as the short term impacts of COVID-19 unfold.”

The business helpline number is 0300 303 0660. The helpline will be open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm. Callers should select option one to speak to the COVID-19 team.

People with symptoms told to stay at home.

First Minister announces large events to be cancelled.

Last week new guidance on Covid-19 that includes workplace advice was published.

Further additional guidance and information, including links to guidance for travellers and the general public, can also be found on HPS’ COVID-19 page.

The latest numbers of test results are published at 2pm each day on the Scottish Government website.

Coronavirus: “the worst public health crisis for a generation”

OUT OF CONTAINMENT, INTO DELAY PHASE

The UK Government has announced that we are moving out of the contain phase and into delay, in response to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

The UK Chief Medical Officers have now raised the risk to the UK from moderate to high.

The UK Government is asking anyone who shows certain symptoms to self-isolate for 7 days, regardless of whether they have travelled to affected areas. This means we want people to stay at home and avoid all but essential contact with others for 7 days from the point of displaying mild symptoms, to slow the spread of infection.

The symptoms are: * A high temperature (37.8 degrees and above) * A new, continuous cough

You do not need to call NHS 111 to go into self-isolation. If your symptoms worsen during home isolation or are no better after 7 days contact NHS 111 online at 111.nhs.uk. If you have no internet access, you should call NHS 111. For a medical emergency dial 999.

In the coming weeks, we will be introducing further social distancing measures for older and vulnerable people, asking them to self-isolate regardless of symptoms.

If we introduce this next stage too early, the measures will not protect us at the time of greatest risk but could have a huge social impact. We need to time this properly, continue to do the right thing at the right time, so we get the maximum effect for delaying the virus. We will clearly announce when we ask the public to move to this next stage.

Our decisions are based on careful modelling. We will only introduce measures that are supported by clinical and scientific evidence.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson issued the following statement yesterday:

“I’ve just chaired a meeting of the government’s emergency committee including ministers from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

“And it’s clear that coronavirus, COVID-19, continues and will continue to spread across the world and our country over the next few months. We’ve done what can be done to contain this disease and this has bought us valuable time.

“But it is now a global pandemic.

“And the number of cases will rise sharply and indeed the true number of cases is higher – perhaps much higher – than the number of cases we have so far confirmed with tests.

“I’ve got to be clear, we’ve all got to be clear, that this is the worst public health crisis for a generation.

“Some people compare it to seasonal flu. Alas, that is not right. Owing to the lack of immunity, this disease is more dangerous.

“And it’s going to spread further and I must level with you, level with the British public, many more families are going to lose loved ones before their time. And the Chief Scientific Adviser will set out the best information we have on that in a moment.

“But as we’ve said over the last few weeks, we have a clear plan that we are now working through. And we are now moving to the next phase in that plan.

“Because this is now not just to attempt to contain the disease as far as possible, but to delay its spread and thereby minimise the suffering. If we delay the peak even by a few weeks, then our NHS will be in a stronger state as the weather improves and fewer people suffer from normal respiratory diseases, more beds are available and we’ll have more time for medical research.

“We can also act to stretch the peak of the disease over a longer period so that our society is better able to cope.

“The Chief Medical Officer will set out our lines of defence. We have to deploy these at the right time to maximise their effect. The most important task will be to protect our elderly and most vulnerable people during the peak weeks when there is the maximum risk of exposure to the disease and when the NHS will be under the most pressure. So the most dangerous period is not now but some weeks away depending on how fast it spreads.

“Today therefore we are moving forward with our plan. From tomorrow, (Friday) if you have coronavirus symptoms, however mild – either a new continuous cough or a high temperature – then you should stay at home for at least 7 days to protect others and help slow the spread of the disease.

“We advise all those over 70 and those with serious medical conditions against going on cruises and we advise against international school trips.

“At some point in the next few weeks, we are likely to go further and if someone in a household has those symptoms, we will be asking everyone in the household to stay at home. We are not introducing this yet for reasons Sir Patrick will explain, but I want to signal now that this is coming down the track.

“We are considering the question of banning major public events such as sporting fixtures. The scientific advice as we’ve said over the last couple of weeks is that banning such events will have little effect on the spread.

“But there is also the issue of the burden that such events can place on public services. So we’re discussing these issues with colleagues in all parts of the United Kingdom and will have more to say shortly about the timing of further action in that respect.

“At all stages, we have been guided by the science, and we will do the right thing at the right time.

“We are not – repeat not – closing schools now. The scientific advice is that this could do more harm than good at this time. But we are of course keeping this under review and this again may change as the disease spreads. Schools should only close if they are specifically advised to do so. And that remains our advice.

“There is no escaping the reality that these measures will cause severe disruption across our country for many months.

“The best scientific advice is that this will help us slow the disease and save lives. There will be detailed information available on the NHS website and from 111 online. But I want to stress something that is very important in the wake of what we’re saying this afternoon – I urge people, who think in view of what we’re saying about their potential symptoms that they should stay at home, not to call 111 but to use the internet for information if they can.

“I also want at this stage to speak directly to older people. Because this disease is particularly dangerous for you, for older people, even though for the vast majority this will be a mild to moderate illness, I know that many people will be very worried. And I think we should all be thinking about our elderly relatives, the more vulnerable members of their family, our neighbours, and everything we can do to protect them over the next few months.

“We’re going to need to mobilise millions of people to help and support each other. And I just want to you to know that the government will do all we can to help you and your family during this period. We’re not just going to be, as you saw yesterday, supporting the economy during this period, we will be providing money and many other forms of support, and helping communities to support each other.

“And as we have done over the last few weeks, we will continue to provide, as soon as we have it, as much clear scientific and medical information as we can.

“So I’d like to end by repeating the two important messages, with which you will have become familiar – it is still vital, perhaps more vital than ever – that we remember to wash our hands.

“And lastly of course even if things seem tough now, just to remember, that we will get through this, this country will get through this epidemic, just as it has got through many tougher experiences before if we look out for each other and commit wholeheartedly to a full national effort.”

The Scottish Government has also reacted to the changing situation by taking action to protect the resilience of critical emergency services during the coronavirus outbreak.

From Monday all large gatherings above 500 people with the potential to impact the emergency services should be cancelled to prioritise the Covid-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.

The First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced the action in Scotland to protect the resilience of the emergency services until the impact of the virus has lessened substantially.

Managing large events safely can require a significant commitment and planning from the Police, Fire and Ambulance Services, as well as others such as the voluntary sector.

At a time when there is severe pressure on emergency and public services as a result of the virus, cancelling such large events will free up vital resources to focus on dealing with the outbreak.

Guidance on how this action will impact events will be produced before Monday.

The First Minister said: “Event organisers should take action now to help our emergency services deal with the scale of the challenge we face with coronavirus.

“Our frontline services are doing a fantastic job but they are already under pressure, which will increase as the number of cases in Scotland rises.

“The emergency services are well prepared to deal with this outbreak but mass gatherings, such as large football and rugby matches as well as concerts, can have a significant impact on emergency service resources.

“Removing unnecessary burdens on our frontline workers is the right thing to do so they can prioritise their response to where it is needed most.”

City of Edinburgh Council Leader Adam McVey also outlined emergency funding to support the Council’s response to the Coronavirus.

Cllr McVey said: “We and our partners are working round the clock to ensure Edinburgh is ready for however the Coronavirus situation develops in the days, weeks and months ahead.

“It’s a worrying and uncertain time for everyone and today we’ve confirmed an immediate allocation of £2m to reinforce the proactive and preventative measures we’ll need to take.

“Our focus is on minimising the impact of the virus on our communities and Council services, with a particular emphasis on health and social care.

“This is a rapidly evolving situation and we’ll continue to send relevant information to staff, schools and on our dedicated web page. We’ll also continue to signpost official guidance in areas like travel advice and what we can all do to protect ourselves and others.

“This is a very challenging time for the city, and the world, but if we all pull together I know we will get through it.”

Chancellor delivers Coronavirus Budget

The Chancellor yesterday set out a £12 billion action plan in response to the economic impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, as part of a Budget that ‘delivers historic levels of public investment, levels up the country and lays the foundations for a decade of growth’.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak said Britain will rise to the challenge of COVID-19, with a package of measures to support public services, individuals and businesses that may be affected by the outbreak.

In addition to responding to the immediate impact of COVID-19, the Chancellor pledged to put hardworking people first, put more money in their pocket, invest a record amount in infrastructure, boost public services, back business and set out a vision for a greener future.

A record half a trillion pounds (£640 billion) will be invested in Britain’s roads, railways and digital networks to give us the infrastructure that will support economic growth.

The Budget also provides billions of pounds to support our world-class public services; with funding for 50,000 more nurses and 50 million more GP surgery appointments a year.

Millions of families will have more cash to spend thanks to tax cuts through an increase in National Insurance thresholds and a cash boost to the National Living Wage (NLW). The Budget also takes action to support businesses of all sizes and accelerates the UK’s progress towards a greener economy. The Comprehensive Spending Review, which will set out the government’s detailed spending plans for this Parliament, was also launched today and will conclude in July.

Delivering the budget in Parliament Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak said: “This Budget responds, at scale, to the immediate threat of Coronavirus and it reports on an economy whose foundations are strong. It is a Budget that provides for security today.

“This is a Budget that will deliver on our promises to the British people and it is the budget of a government that gets things done.

“We’re at the beginning of a new era in this country. We have the freedom and the resource to decide our own future.”

COVID-19

The Chancellor pledged to do ‘whatever it takes’ to support the economy through the disruption caused by COVID-19 with a £12 billion package of targeted measures. It included a £5 billion emergency response fund to support the NHS and other public services, £40 million of new funding for rapid research into COVID-19 and a commitment of up to £150 million to the International Monetary Fund’s Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust.

To support people affected, the Chancellor announced the government would be extending Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) for all those who are advised to self-isolate and their carers – even if they haven’t yet presented with symptoms. Statutory Sick Pay costs for businesses with fewer than 250 employees will be met by the government in full for up to 14 days.

Rishi Sunak also set out plans to support the self-employed, those earning below the Lower Earnings Limit of £118 per week and a new £500 million Hardship Fund to directly support vulnerable people. The government will also increase the Business Rates retail discount to 100% for one year and expand it to the leisure and hospitality sectors.

Public services

By the end of the Parliament, day to day spending on public services will be £100 billion higher in cash terms than it is today. This Budget commits more than £6 billion of new funding in this Parliament to support the NHS, including to create 50m more GP surgery appointments, ensure there are 50,000 more nurses. The NHS Settlement provided the largest cash increase in public services since the Second World War – an additional £33.9 billion per year by 2024.

Levelling up and getting Britain Building

Billions of investment will be provided across the length and breadth of the country to support communities poorly served by old roads, communications and housing:

more than £27 billion will be spent on upgrading strategic roads and £2.5 billion will be spent on fixing potholes
£5 billion will go towards the rollout of gigabit-capable broadband in the hardest to reach areas
following the recent floods, which devastated parts of the UK, the Chancellor has pledged a record £5.2 billion over six years for flood defences

Cost of living

The Chancellor also put more money into the pockets of 31 million working people thanks to National Insurance Contribution thresholds increasing to £9,500, saving the typical employee around £104 a year from April, while the National Living Wage will increase to £8.72. This is on top a freeze in Fuel Duty, for the tenth consecutive year, and a freeze in duty rates for beer, cider and spirits, while the ‘Tampon Tax’ will be scrapped.

Backing Business

From April, small businesses will benefit from an increase to the Employment Allowance, reducing their employer National Insurance bills by £850 on average and there will be fundamental review of business rates.

Greener economy

To accelerate the UK’s progress towards net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and protect the environment for future generations, the Chancellor announced £500 million for electric car charging infrastructure, to ensure drivers are never further than 30 miles away from a rapid charger. Tree planting in England will increase by 600% and to tackle the scourge of single-use plastics, a consultation will be launched on introducing a Plastic Packaging Tax.

Support for the regions and nations

The Chancellor has also pledged to level up all parts of the UK, with measures to spread opportunity and ensuring everyone benefits from growth. He announced the West Yorkshire Devolution Deal, which will help the region boom through the creation of a Mayoral Combined Authority, while a government economic decision-making hub will be created in the North of England.

As a result of the budget:

the Scottish Government will benefit from a £640 million funding boost
the Welsh Government a £360 million funding boost
the Northern Ireland Executive a £210m funding boost

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: “This is a great budget for Scotland. Decisions taken by the UK Government over the last year will deliver an almost £2 billion funding boost for the Scottish Government.

“People and businesses right across Scotland will see the benefits – more than £5 billion for broadband and 4G connectivity, an increase in the national living wage, £22 billion for research and development across the UK, and a freeze in fuel duty.

“The Scotch whisky industry gets a welcome boost, with a freeze on spirits and a review of alcohol duty, and £10 million help to develop green technology. We will also invest £1 million in promoting Scottish produce to overseas markets.

“We will continue our extensive investment in growth deals across Scotland, now at almost £1.5 billion, with confirmation of £25 million UK Government funding for Argyll and Bute. Every part of Scotland will be covered by growth deals, with investment to be announced soon for Falkirk and the Scottish islands.”

Following decisions taken at this Budget, notably on funding for health business rates relief and roads, the Scottish Government’s resource and capital budgets in 2020-2021 will increase by over £220m and £410m respectively with a total increase of more than £640m.

The additional funding, when combined with the £1.3bn funding in 2020-21 provided at the Spending Round 2019, results in the largest year-on-year real-terms funding increase for the Scottish Government in a decade.

Further measures announced by the Chancellor can be found in this factsheet.

BUDGET REACTION

Rapid joint engagement is needed on funding for the COVID-19 response in Scotland following the UK Government’s Budget, Holyrood Finance Secretary Kate Forbes said.

Responding to the UK Budget, Ms Forbes said: “While I’m pleased to see the UK Government’s economic response to coronavirus following my calls for this at the UK Treasury yesterday, we need confirmation on what this will mean for Scotland.

“We require urgent clarification on what funding Scotland will receive from the announcements made by the UK Government, at a time when the prospects for the economy and public finances remain very uncertain as the short term impacts of COVID-19 unfold.

“It is vital that our businesses, employees, health service and the most economically vulnerable in our society are all protected through this time, and this additional funding will help us in our response.

“I will ensure that businesses in Scotland are supported and will work with the business community to identify the most effective measures available to us, when we have more clarity on the funding available.

“We expect full consequentials from this additional funding and need urgent clarification to provide clarity for Scottish businesses and NHS Scotland to ensure we can respond effectively.

“The Barnett consequentials announced today are in line with the assumptions that underpinned the Scottish Budget and Budget Bill passed by the Scottish Parliament last week. While this funding is welcome, our resource budget is still lower in real terms than it was in 2010/11.”

Rebecca Long-Bailey, Labour’s Shadow Business Secretary, commenting on the failure to tackle the climate crisis in the Budget, said: “By ducking the bold measures needed to tackle the climate emergency, the Chancellor has blown the biggest opportunity for national renewal since the post-war era, betraying current and future generations.

“This Budget piles investment into new motorways without bringing down the cost of public transport, and offers only derisory support for electric vehicles. There is no sign of the Tory manifesto commitment to invest £9.2 billion to lower energy bills, and the proposal to load the costs of carbon capture and storage onto consumer bills is particularly concerning.

“Elsewhere the Budget sets out a series of measures that seem designed to let our biggest emitters off the hook.

“The Chancellor says people in this country voted for change, but nobody voted for catastrophic climate change.”

Dame Carolyn Fairbairn, CBI Director-General, said: “In deeply challenging times the Chancellor has worked against the clock to deliver two budgets in one: a first for national resilience today and a second for economic ambition tomorrow. It’s a bold Budget at scale, coordinated with the Bank of England, which will help people and business through tough times.

“As the UK responds to the immediate challenge, people are the first priority. So the measures to expand and ease access to sick pay and benefits are vital to protect people’s health and livelihoods.

“The Chancellor’s actions on business rates, emergency funds and loans will help ensure firms can weather the storm, especially smaller firms. Larger firms may also need support as the situation develops.

“Covid19 will bring new challenges daily which will need to be resolved, at speed. “Today’s impressive economic response should now evolve with business insight to become as agile as our approach to public health.

“While the response to Covid19 is urgent, it is very good to see this Budget’s focus on innovation and infrastructure. The Chancellor has listened to many calls from CBI members, with decisive action on vital long-term issues.

“The significant uplift in R&D funding, creation of a UK version of ARPA, a fundamental review of business rates and spending promises on infrastructure will all bring real benefits to people, business and communities.

“The Chancellor has set out some powerful incentives to get businesses investing, increasing the R&D tax credit and the Structures and Buildings Allowance. The £5bn of new export loans will encourage the best of UK business to look to new global markets.

“The next few months will bring opportunities for the Government to make major decisions that they have understandably had to put to one side today. Some gaps still need to be filled in around skills, energy efficiency and powering the UK’s low carbon future.

“Overall, today’s budget is a powerful signal to firms at home and abroad that the UK can and will manage the immediate challenges and long-term opportunities in parallel.”

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said: “The government’s coronavirus plans will leave millions of workers behind. Without urgent action, too many will be plunged into poverty and debt.

“Today’s announcements won’t help the nearly 2 million people who miss out on sick pay because they don’t earn enough. Telling them to turn to the broken benefits system isn’t good enough. We need decent sick pay for all.

“Ministers must now urgently bring together unions and employers to talk about how to support jobs, including through wage subsidies for short time working schemes, and further help for public services – especially social care.”

On investment announcements, she added: “This spending u-turn is badly overdue. The priority now must be to repair the damage of ten years of Tory devastation.

“Helping working families and rebuilding public services must come first. And we need to see concrete action on the challenges of the future.

“This means banning zero hours contracts, sorting social care, ending the UK’s dire regional inequalities, setting out a credible plan to achieve net zero, and getting an EU trade deal that supports jobs and workers across the UK.”

Fraser Sime, regional director for Scotland at Bank of Scotland, said: “The announcement of £1m support towards Scottish food and drink exports is extremely encouraging.

“We have a team of relationship managers that work specifically with this industry across Scotland to support growth, both at home and overseas, and today’s development will further help local firms capitalise on new opportunities.

“With 120 active distilleries in Scotland, the investment of £10m into the research and development of more sustainable practices will assist the industry in reducing the environmental impact of our national tipple. To support this, our Clean Growth Financing Initiative also offers discounted lending to introduce measures to create more renewable energy sources for businesses.”

Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive of LGiU, said: “Understandably, this budget was dominated by the Government’s response to coronavirus. No one could argue with that, but for councils across Scotland it provides more questions than answers.

“Social care has been all but absent in the response to Covid-19. Hospitals will not be able to cope if large numbers of older sufferers cannot be discharged because of a lack of social care provision and social care providers will not be able to cope if a fifth of their already stretched workforce is off sick. This could create a dangerous and vicious circle. Mr Sunak promised “whatever it takes” for the NHS, but once again, risks forgetting the symbiotic relationship between health and social care.

“The Growth Deal in Argyll and Bute, help for whisky distillers and support for a campaign to promote Scottish food and drink will be welcomed by local government across Scotland, but many will be concerned that these are only small steps being taken to reverse the decade of funding cuts experienced in Scotland.

“Elsewhere in the budget, announcements on infrastructure, science, further education and research and innovation all look to a longer term future. Local government must have a role to play in making these happen but there remain questions about its capacity to do so after a decade of contraction.

“So, we had a budget designed to cope with an immediate crisis whilst also setting out significant spending and a vision for a long term economic transformation. Councils will be at the front line of our response to coronavirus and will be a crucial player in this transformation. However, local government may feel that it has dropped through the middle somewhat as the Government attempts to get so many other things done.”

Commenting on the UK Government’s Budget yesterday, Scotland Director for CAMRA Sarah Crawford said: “CAMRA welcomes the freeze in beer duty – which is a UK-wide tax – but we want to make sure brewers and pub companies pass on any savings on to pub-goers.

“In the upcoming review of alcohol taxation we will be arguing for a cut in beer duty for beer served on tap, which would be the best way to support community pubs.

“Yesterday’s Budget also sees cuts and reliefs to the burden of Business Rates for pubs in England. CAMRA is calling on the Scottish Government to introduce further support and pub-specific rate relief schemes here to help our pubs cope not only with the short-term impacts of coronavirus, but also with the year-round effect that business rates have on the ability of our locals to stay open and thrive. We’d also like to see fundamental changes to the Business Rates system to make sure it is fairer to pubs.

“Cutting duty for draught beer in pubs and changing the Business Rates system are both vital steps to saving community pubs across Scotland from closure.”

Nimesh Shah is a Partner at leading accounting and tax advisory firm Blick Rothenberg. He summed the Budget:

“Today marked the first Budget for the new Government, the first for a new Chancellor who has only been in the job a few weeks and the first for almost 18 months. It could, however, be the first of several budgets in 2020.

“In a Budget overshadowed by COVID-19, the Chancellor started by announcing a package of measures aimed at easing the burden for individuals and businesses, including extending Statutory Sick Pay, offering a reduction to Business Rates for small businesses and allowing more time to pay taxes.

“The Chancellor’s hands seemed to be slightly tied, and the only notable change for workers was an increase to the National Insurance threshold to £9,500 providing a £100 annual saving.

“For the first time in 10 years, there was no increase to the personal allowance, which remained at £12,500. In fact, there were no changes to the majority of the personal tax thresholds with the basic rate band, inheritance tax nil rate band and the high-income child benefit threshold all untouched.

“In a measure aimed at appeasing NHS doctors and consultants, the pensions annual allowance will only begin to reduce for individuals with income above £240,000 (currently £150,000). However, at the other end of the spectrum, the minimum pensions annual allowance will be reduced to £4,000 (currently £10,000), affecting individuals with income above £300,000.

“The Chancellor wielded an axe on Entrepreneurs’ Relief without going as far as abolishing it completely. In an overnight move (which has its own complexities), the Entrepreneurs’ Relief lifetime allowance was slashed from £10 million to £1 million, reducing the tax saving to £100,000. Apparently, the reduced limit should only affect 20% of entrepreneurs while raising £6.3 billion for the Treasury in the process over the next five years.

“Entrepreneurs’ Relief has gone full circle, as the limit was £1 million when first introduced in 2008 and worth £80,000. At a time when all UK businesses are facing hugely uncertain futures, it was disappointing that the Chancellor, only a few weeks into the job, decided to make the move without any review or consultation.

“For the first time in many years, there were few changes to property taxes, with the Government moving ahead with a 2% SDLT surcharge for overseas buyers, which will take effect from April 2021 (presumably to encourage overseas buyers to transact before a higher SDLT cost applies).

“However, it’s worth noting that several property tax changes are due to take effect from 6 April 2020, including a reduction to main residence relief, the mortgage interest relief restriction taking full effect and reducing the timeframe in which capital gains tax should be paid to 30-days when selling a residential property.

“The only giveaway for savers was an increase to the Junior ISA limit to £9,000. At a time when the stock markets have tumbled and interest rates cut, pensioners and savers may have been looking to the Government for some help.”

This year’s winners and losers: who will be better off?

George Parker and Harriet James are Assistant Managers at leading accounting and tax advisory firm Blick Rothenberg

Winners

All earners

An increase in National Insurance Contribution (NIC) thresholds is a welcome move for all employees and the self-employed. The threshold will increase from £8,628 to £9,500, resulting in an annual NIC saving of £104 for employees and £78 for the self-employed.

Saving for retirement

From 2020-21, the thresholds used to calculate the tapering of the annual allowance will be increased so that workers with ‘adjusted net income’ of below £240,000 are not affected by the reduced limits.

The annual allowance is the total amount an individual and employer can contribute into their pension fund without incurring a tax charge.

Children under 18 years old

Junior ISA and Child Trust Fund annual subscription limits will increase by £4,632 from £4,368 to £9,000 – a massive uplift.

Losers

Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs Relief (ER) Lifetime Allowance will be reduced from £10m to £1m affecting an estimated 20% of business owners. Going forward, only the first £1m of capital gains arising on the sale of an individual’s business will be taxed at 10%, with the remaining gain being taxed at 20%. Harsh anti-avoidance rules have also been introduced, backdated from April 2019.

Top earners

Currently individuals with an ‘adjusted net income’ in excess of £210,000 have their annual allowance tapered to £10,000. From April 2020, the allowance will be tapered to £4,000 for individuals with total income above £300,000. Any excess contributions over the new tapered annual allowance will be subject to tax at 45%.

Companies investment in plant and machinery

The favourable – yet temporary – Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) of £1million will come to an end on 31 December 2020, reducing by 80% to £200,000 per year.

Pensioners

The forgotten in this Budget are pensioners. With no reforms or simplification to Inheritance Tax announced, with the personal allowance and income tax thresholds remaining unchanged, and as they do not pay NIC, inflation will drag more pensioners into higher taxes. Based on forecasted inflation at 2%, many pensioners will be worse off in real terms.

Johnson statement on Coronavirus

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made the following statement yesterday …

This morning I chaired a meeting of the government’s COBR emergency committee on the Coronavirus outbreak.

The First Ministers of Scotland and Wales and the First Minister and deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland also attended and we agreed to continue to work closely in the weeks and months ahead.

We received a detailed briefing from the Chief Medical Officer and the Chief Scientific Advisor. And again I repeat my gratitude to both Chris and to Patrick.

There have now been four deaths from coronavirus in the UK, and our deepest sympathies are obviously with their friends and families.

Our action plan as you know sets out the four phases of our approach to tackling the virus: Contain, Delay, Research, and Mitigate.

We remain in the Contain phase of the outbreak, but watching what is happening around the world, our scientists think containment is extremely unlikely to work on its own, and that is why we are making extensive preparations for a move to the delay phase.

We are preparing various actions to slow the spread of this disease in order to reduce the strain it places on the NHS. The more we can delay the peak of the spread to the summer, the better the NHS will be able to manage.

Patrick and Chris will give you some more detailed information on the latest advice we are giving the public today – and how we expect that advice to change as the outbreak develops.

As things stand I’m afraid it bears repeating that the best thing we can all do is wash our hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.

We will also take questions, because I know there are lots of things the public want to hear from our advisors about.

But before that I want to stress the following things:

First, we are doing everything we can to combat this outbreak, based on the very latest scientific and medical advice.

Second, we have a truly brilliant NHS, where staff have responded with all the determination, compassion and skill that makes their service so revered across the world. And they will continue to have this government’s full support, my support, in tackling this virus on the frontline.

Third, we will set out further steps in the days and weeks ahead to help people protect themselves, their family and in particular the elderly and vulnerable.

And finally, while it is absolutely critical, it’s absolutely critical in managing the spread of this virus that we take the right decisions at the right time, based on the latest and best evidence. So we must not do things which have no or limited medical benefit, nor things which could turn out to be counterproductive.

There is no hiding from the fact that the coronavirus outbreak will present significant challenges for the UK, just as it does in other countries.

But if we continue to look out for one another, to pull together in a united and national effort, I have no doubt that we can and will rise to that challenge.

And I’m now going to ask Patrick and then Chris to give their own perspective on where we are …

Coronavirus: Workplace advice

New guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19) has been published that includes workplace advice.

It contains guidance for non-healthcare settings, including tips that apply to people working in hotels and hospitality, leisure facilities, entertainment venues and premises used by community groups.

It has general basic hygiene measures and advice from Health Protection Scotland on preventing the spread of infection and includes:

• routine cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched objects and surfaces such as telephones, keyboards, door handles, desks and tables

• basic hand washing highlighted as the most effective way of preventing the spread of infection. Hand hygiene promoted by ensuring staff, contractors, service users and visitors have access to hand washing facilities and alcohol-based hand rub, where available

• crockery and cutlery in shared kitchen areas should be cleaned with warm water and detergent and dried thoroughly

• ensuring food such as crisps and sandwiches should not be left open for communal sharing unless individually wrapped

Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Fair Work and Culture, said: “This publication has been circulated following general guidance on basic preventative measures against coronavirus and specific guidance for educational settings.

“It contains clear, practical guidance that will ensure workplace staff have the latest information about COVID-19 and how we can all help prevent it from spreading.

“We are well-prepared for an outbreak in Scotland, but the public has a vital role to play in helping us contain any positive cases by keeping themselves informed, and following basic hygiene precautions.

“That includes hand-washing, not touching their faces unless their hands are clean and covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing then putting the tissue in the bin.”

A copy of COVID-19 Guidance for Non- Healthcare Settings can be found here.

Further additional guidance and information, including links to guidance for travellers and the general public, can also be found on HPS’ COVID-19 page.

The latest numbers of test results are published at 2pm each day on the Scottish Government website.

Common symptoms of coronavirus include:

• high temperature or fever
• cough
• shortness of breath

Updates on public health advice for coronavirus can be found on the NHS Inform website, and a free helpline has been set up for those who do not have symptoms but are looking for general health advice: 0800 028 2816.

For anyone who is planning to travel abroad, guidance can be found on fitfortravel. Where a COVID-19 risk is identified, country pages will be updated.

1_COVID-19-Guidance-for-non-healthcare-settings

Coronavirus: Sick Pay Stooshie

Statutory Sick Pay will be made available from day one when self-isolating, instead of day four, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced yesterday – but poverty campaigners say this won’t be enough to protect workers.

The move will be included in emergency legislation to deal with coronavirus.

Updating Parliament on the Government’s response, Prime Minister Boris Johnson told MPs: “I can today announce that the Health Secretary will bring forward, as part of our emergency legislation measures, to allow the payment of Statutory Sick Pay from the very first day you are sick instead of four days under the current rules.

“No one should be penalised for doing the right thing.”

Explaining the rationale for the measure, the Prime Minister had earlier said: “We are not at the point yet where we are asking large numbers of people to self-isolate, but that may of course come if large numbers have the symptoms.

“If they stay at home, they are helping to protect all of us by preventing the spread of the virus.”

The change will be a temporary measure to respond to the outbreak and will lapse when it is no longer required.

Statutory Sick Pay is paid by employers, who will know the reason their staff are giving for not being at work and already have some discretion to accept different forms of evidence as proof of sickness.

There is a range of support in place for those who do not receive Statutory Sick Pay, including Universal Credit and contributory Employment and Support Allowance. The move will be included in emergency legislation to deal with coronavirus.

The UK Government has announced it will extend statutory sick pay to start on the first day of being off to enable people to self-isolate in response to the Corona virus. But this won’t be enough to protect workers, says the Poverty Alliance.

Peter Kelly, Director of Poverty Alliance said: ““While we welcome the much needed extension of statutory sick pay, this will not be enough to protect workers who may need to self-isolate in response to the virus.

“Statutory sick pay should be significantly increased from its current level of £94.25 to reflect the cost of living, and the qualifying wage of £118 should be removed.

“If the Corona virus continues to spread at its current rate there is a high risk that many more people will be swept into already staggering levels of poverty in this country.”

“The challenges of responding to the virus highlight existing failings in both the labour market and social security system. Workers on zero hours contracts will have no access to sick leave and have been recommended to apply for Universal Credit. But we know that the five week wait for first payments of the benefit is already driving destitution.

“Immediate safeguards should be introduced for workers who are deemed as self-employed or are on zero or short hours contracts and the scandalous and unnecessary wait for Universal Credit should be brought to an end.”

The TUC has been campaigning for everyone to get sick pay from day one, no matter what they earn.

They are calling on the government to introduce emergency legislation that:

Gives every worker the right to statutory sick pay from the first day of absence
Scraps the minimum earnings threshold for statutory sick pay
Increases the weekly level of sick pay
Ensures that sick pay is paid to workers having to self-isolate
Provides funds to ensure employers can afford to pay sick pay and additional support to those who miss out

Sign the petition calling for sick pay for every worker from day one.

Sign petition

Coronavirus: stay informed

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon met with staff supporting Scotland’s public information response to coronavirus (COVID-19) yesterday, following the announcement of two additional positive test results in Scotland.

The UK saw its biggest day-on-day increase in coronavirus cases yesterday, bringing the total number to 87.

During a visit to NHS 24’s contact centre at the Golden Jubilee National Hospital, the First Minister thanked NHS 24 staff, including nurses, call handlers and health information advisors operating the 111 service and a dedicated coronavirus helpline service, for their efforts to keep the public informed.

The helpline has been set up by NHS 24 for people who do not have symptoms and are looking for general information and advice on coronavirus.

More than 400 staff work at NHS 24’s Clydebank call centre, which is one of four main centres located across Scotland.

Monday 2 March was the busiest day to date for the coronavirus helpline with 584 calls recorded, up from 143 on Sunday, when the first positive case in Scotland was identified. On Tuesday there were 430 calls.

NHS Inform’s coronavirus page has registered 264,118 visits as of Tuesday, with 55,000 visits on Monday alone.

The First Minister said: “Our thoughts are with the two patients who have been newly diagnosed with coronavirus and their families, and I wish them all the best for their recovery.

“The Scottish Government and NHS Scotland are well-prepared to deal with a coronavirus outbreak, but the public also have a big role to play in helping us any contain any potential spread of coronavirus in Scotland for as long as possible.

“So I want to thank staff here for all their hard work to answer questions about coronavirus and keep the public informed.

“As the number of positive cases in Scotland increases, it is vital people stay up to date with the latest health and travel advice on NHS Inform, as well as following basic hygiene precautions, such as washing hands frequently, not touching their face and covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.”

NHS 24’s Director of Service Delivery Steph Philips said: “Over the last 10 days we have received more than 3,000 calls on coronavirus to our helpline and those numbers are increasing, with over 500 calls to the 111 service since Friday in addition to the coronavirus helpline, and we saw another significant increase on Monday following the first positive case in Scotland.

“That’s why we’re asking people in Scotland to check NHS Inform online in the first instance, as it’s the quickest and easiest way to get the latest information if they have questions about travel risk or symptoms, as well as our self-help guide tool. NHS Inform is being updated with latest information for the Scottish public on a daily basis.

“In addition to the helpline, we’re also encouraging people to phone their GP during the day or call NHS 24 on 111 out of hours.”

Two further patients in Scotland tested positive for COVID-19 yesterday, bringing the total number of cases to three.

Both patients are currently clinically well and are receiving appropriate clinical care. Due to patient confidentiality, we are unable to give any more details.

One patient is resident in the Grampian area, the second patient is resident in the Ayrshire area. One patient has recently travelled to northern Italy and the other has had contact with a known positive case – this contact was not with the first positive case confirmed in Scotland.

Clinicians have begun contact tracing, the process of gathering details of the places they have visited and the people they have been in contact with. It is important to note that this tracing process does not involve people the patients may have passed on the street or in a shop – as the risk in these situations is very low.

Close contact involves either face-to-face contact or spending more than 15 minutes within two metres of an infected person. Those at risk of infection will be contacted by health protection teams for further advice. Those who are not contacted are not at risk.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “Our first thoughts must be with the patients diagnosed with coronavirus, I wish them a full and speedy recovery.

“We expect the number of cases to rise and Scotland is well-prepared for a significant outbreak of coronavirus. There is currently no treatment or vaccine so early detection measures will continue to be vital in helping to prevent the spread of the virus.

“People have a vital role to play in helping us contain any outbreak by following the latest health and travel advice, and following basic hygiene precautions, such as washing hands frequently, not touching their face and covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.”

Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Catherine Calderwood said: “Firstly our thoughts are with those who have been diagnosed, and with their families.

“Scotland is well equipped to deal with infections of this kind. We have a proven track record of dealing with challenging health issues, and have been preparing for this possibility since the beginning of the outbreak.

“We practice and prepare our response to disease outbreaks and follow tried and tested procedures, following the highest safety standards possible for the protection of NHS staff, patients and the public.”

NHS 24 is the national provider of digital and telephone based health and care services for Scotland.

The helpline is open:
• Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 10.00pm
• Saturday and Sunday, 9.00am to 5.00pm

The latest numbers of test results are published at 2pm each day on the Scottish Government website.

Common symptoms of coronavirus can include:
• high temperature or fever
• cough
• shortness of breath

For anyone who is planning to travel abroad, guidance can be found on fitfortravel. Where a COVID-19 risk is identified, country pages will be updated.