Published Wednesday 23 September 2020 at 12:54
Following the Prime Minister’s update last night, there is no doubt that we remain in this together for the long-haul.
We appreciate how hard it has been for everyone over the past six months. As we remain in the midst of a global pandemic, we must continue to take heed of the rules and guidance to stop this virus escalating out of control.
As a reminder Blackburn with Darwen’s new local restrictions alongside a number of Councils in the North West and North East that came into force yesterday, (Tuesday, September 22) continue to mean for us residents must not mix with any other households in private homes or private gardens, except for those in a support bubble.
Whilst yesterday the Government announced a number of new/revised rules which we update on below, we have been able to share one piece of good news for parents.
The Government responded to collective concerns and announced new measures to allow vital child care arrangements to continue and allow parents to carry on working. Children under 14 will be able to be cared for by individuals outside of their immediate household as part of a care bubble that must be part of a consistent childcare relationship. You can read the update.
Please remember the basic advice by continuing to regularly wash your hands, keep two metres apart and wear a face mask in public places.
We thank you all for everything you have done and continue to do to ensure we do all we can to stop the spread of this virus. Your efforts are helping to protect everyone in our community, including our loved ones.
Council Leader Mohammed Khan
Chief Executive Denise Park
Director of Public Health Professor Dominic Harrison
Here’s what you need to know:
Shielding
The advice remains the same in that anyone shielding in the 8 wards in the North East of Blackburn should continue to follow the existing guidance until 5 October. General guidance for clinically extremely vulnerable people can be found online by searching for “shielding guidance” on the GOV.UK website.
If you know anyone who needs support to follow shielding guidance, you can contact the Council by calling 01254 588111 (Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00) or by visiting www.blackburn.gov.uk/helphub.
NHS App
The new NHS COVID-19 app is due to launch on Thursday, September 24, 2020. It has several new features to help protect you and your loved ones, including: alerts based on your postcode district; QR check-in at venues; symptom checker; and test booking. Find out more.
Testing
If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you must get a test. We all need to play our part to protect the national test and trace service.
Pubs, bars and restaurants
The new guidance states that from Tuesday, September 22, 2020, they must close at 10pm and can only operate table service. Staff working in these settings are also required to wear a face mask as will customers until they are seated. (See below)
Takeaways
Takeaways must also close their doors at 10pm. Deliveries can continue thereafter where orders are placed via telephone, a website, email or an app.
Penalties
The new rules mean £10,000 fines that can be imposed on those who don’t quarantine/self-isolate will now apply to businesses breaking rules.
The fine for failing to wear a mask or breaking the rule of six will be increased from £100 to £200 for a first offence.
Face masks
- Staff in hospitality and retail sectors will need to wear face masks
- Customers at indoor hospitality settings will need to wear masks except when seated at a table to eat or drink
- Passengers in taxis will need to wear masks
Retail, leisure, tourism and other sectors
Covid-secure guidelines will be legal obligations – including displaying the NHS new app
Rule of six
Extended to all adult indoor team sports
Weddings
Guest limit will be reduced to 15 down from 30 from Monday, September, 28. We are awaiting a further update on the detail.
Funerals
We are confirming the local position on this and will provide an update.
Football matches and sporting events
Return to sporting events and conference centres has been paused.
Self-isolation
For anyone who has tested positive for Covid, has Covid symptoms or has been asked to self-isolate must stay in their own house and not leave their home – you must not go out.
Help for children and young people
Every Mind Matters has just released new, practical tips and advice to help look after the mental wellbeing of children and young people.
Further information
We know you will have many more questions about these new measures. Our website is continually updated as new guidance and regulations are released including information about support for businesses, support for all of our residents and local restrictions. Please continue to check our website for the latest information.