West Sussex County Council offers support during coronavirus lockdown

On Monday evening (January 4), Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the nation would return to a lockdown similar to that seen in March in a bid to curb the spread of a new variant of Covid-19.

People must now stay at home and only leave for a limited number of reasons, such as shopping for essentials, exercise or going to work where they cannot do so from home.

Dr Tony Hill, Interim Director of Public Health, said: “I am extremely concerned about the infection rate across West Sussex, having seen the numbers go up significantly in all districts and boroughs in the county.

“We all have a responsibility to keep West Sussex safe. The roll-out of vaccinations to those most at risk is an enormous positive step, but we all have a duty do everything we can to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“It is vital that we all follow the government’s instruction to stay at home, save lives and protect the NHS.”

The county council’s Community Hub is still available to anyone needing support or experiencing hardship due to COVID-19. Residents can contact the Hub in confidence by calling 033 022 27980 or by completing the online form. The Hub is open seven days a week between 8am-8pm.

Mental health support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling the Sussex Mental Healthline on 0800 0309 500.

Support for people at risk of harm as a result of domestic abuse is available from the WORTH Specialist Domestic Abuse Service by calling 07834 968539 or 033 022 28181, or emailing [email protected] Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.

Councillor Amanda Jupp, Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: “I realise that a third lockdown will be extremely hard and difficult for many residents but I would urge you all to continue playing your part in this battle against the virus.

“Please stay at home so that cases can be brought under control and life can return to normal. Thank you to everyone for your support in helping us achieve this aim.”

Front line services to our most vulnerable residents will continue, including social care provision for children, young people and adults.

Primary and secondary schools, along with special schools and alternative provision have been told to close to the majority of pupils, and will only be open to priority pupils - those considered vulnerable or those with a critical worker parent.

This is expected to be in place until at least mid-February and schools have been asked to provide remote learning to all pupils who are not in school.

Colleges and universities have also been asked to teach the majority of students remotely.

The government has suggested early year settings, including nursery schools can remain open as normal.

The county council said it is working closely with school and early year leaders to support them in this change.

The council’s Household Waste Recycling Sites (HWRS) remain open but in order to keep safe people should avoid travel to the sites unless waste cannot be safely stored or put out for normal kerbside collection.

Visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/coronavirus for the latest information.