Council updates on latest Covid-19 advice and guidance

Following the Government’s clarification yesterday that it is not imposing local restrictions on Blackburn with Darwen – and this statement in response – Council leaders have today provided a further update with the latest advice and guidance on Covid-19.

Chief Executive, Denise Park; Public Health Director, Dominic Harrison and Council Leader, Cllr Mohammed Khan said:

Blackburn with Darwen – as in every other part of England – remains in step 3 of the Government’s roadmap.

Currently that means:

• Maximum of 30 people can socialise outdoors.
• Two households or a group of up to six people can mix indoors, including in hospitality settings like pubs.
• Indoor hospitality has reopened – with social distancing remaining in place.
• Up to 30 people can attend weddings, receptions, funerals and wakes.
• Domestic overnight stays including trips to holiday accommodation are allowed for groups of up to 6 or two households.

We currently have more cases than many other areas – mainly related to the variant of concern first identified in India – and so it remains vitally important we all continue to exercise caution and take the necessary steps to protect ourselves.

We are undertaking a targeted programme of surge testing and enhanced contact tracing in the areas most affected by the variant of concern, with a specific ask of anyone living, working or going to school in: B1 6** , BB1 7** , BB1 8**and BB2 6** to come forward for PCR testing. Read more here.

All over 18s are asked to check current vaccine eligibility – as well as ongoing enhanced availability of vaccines in sites across the borough – and come forward as soon as possible. More information here.

It’s also vital everyone comes forward for their second dose at the correct time with latest PHE stats showing high degrees of protection against variants after the full course.

If you are worried or have any doubts about any possible covid-19 symptoms you should immediately isolate and get a PCR test.

Everyone else without symptoms – or living in other parts of the borough where surge testing isn’t happening – are encouraged to take up the free rapid testing offer twice a week – even if they’ve been vaccinated.

The message is to ‘Test and Go’ before going out to work, visit the shops, hairdressers, hospitality and other businesses and services.

For more information on testing for those with or without symptoms – including locations where you can get tested or how to order home testing kits go here.

If you receive a positive covid test, we can offer support – which may include financial assistance. Find out more here and here.

Finally, we should all continue to follow the ‘Hands, Face, Space, Fresh Air’ rules – as this is the most effective way to control the spread of all Covid-19 variants.

This means considering whether you can meet people outside as we know it’s safer. If that’s not possible follow Covid-safe practices wherever you are. Follow all necessary precautions on any journeys you’re making including keeping cars ventilated and wearing face coverings on public transport.

It has been such a boost to see our town centres returning to life, more businesses coming back and council services restarting – we absolutely want to carry down that path but we are at a critical stage of the roadmap to recovery.

We are so grateful for everyone’s sacrifices, so let’s keep on track, stick to the rules and avoid any unnecessary risks. We can do this – but we must do it together.

We continue to be in communication with the Government to seek further clarity and to continue our call to accelerate the roll out of vaccines to our communities.