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Coronavirus York updates; 31st December 2020

Deaths and test results

THREE additional deaths announced by York Hospital Trust today. Two occurred on Tuesday and one yesterday. Brings the total number of fatalities since 1st September at the York and Scarborough hospitals to 157.

Local COVID related hospital deaths since September

TWO HUNDRED AND TWO (202) new positive test results announced today.

That is a record high.

The 209 infections reported on 29th December is also the highest single day figure ever recorded in the City.

The previous highest was 159 recorded on 13th October.

The Tuesday figure may have been influenced by delayed results from a Christmas backlog, but this does not entirely explain the surge in cases.

The rate /100k population stands at 266.8. It is set to rise to at least 370.8 within the next three days.

The neighbourhood figures do not yet include the large post Christmas spike in infections. They are likely, therefore, to get worse over the next few days.

End of shuttle service for disabled

Following feedback from service users the temporary Blue Badge shuttle service from Monk Bar car park is set to end on 31 December.

The service will be replaced with improved city centre access arrangements and more parking locations.

Feedback on the shuttle service and single drop off from Monk Bar was that it was not popular and viewed as inadequate by some blue badge holders. To make it easier for those who used the shuttle service to visit the city centre, vehicle access and Blue Badge parking is being reinstated from Monk Bar to Deangate, and College Green.. 

Free blue badge parking will be available in locations including:

•    in ten dedicated spaces at Monk Bar Car Park
•    in 4 additional dedicated bays at Bootham Row Car Park (Off Bootham next the BBC Radio York building)
•    as well as on double yellow lines on Monk Bar to Deangate and College Green (up to and past the Cross Keys pub)


The original changes were brought in quickly at the start of the pandemic to allow for social distancing and the opening of pavement cafes. This helped York’s city centre to recover more strongly than most other cities in the UK, including giving many pubs and cafes the outdoor space which allows them to keep trading.

The latest plans follow extensive engagement with disabled residents and advocacy groups. It revealed broad support for the increased safety of the footstreets but dissatisfaction with the arrangements put in place to replace the lost Blue Badge parking. The proposed changes included:

•    Vehicle access and Blue Badge parking would return from Monk Bar to Deangate, and College Green.
•    The taxi shuttle service for which feedback was poor will finish at the end of December.
•    Ten Blue Badge spaces would be retained at Monk Bar Car Park, and four created at Bootham Row to add to the additional free on-street spaces at Dundas Street, Carmelite Street, St Saviourgate, Duncombe Place and the existing spaces on Piccadilly, Tower Street, Castle Car Park and all other council car parks.
•    A single information point for disabled people to plan journeys.
•    Explore ways to allow disabled people who use cycles as a mobility aid to use them with care on the footstreets.
Following the announcement that York will be in Tier 3 from 00.01 on 31 December footstreets will be open to traffic from 5pm as bars, pubs and cafes will only be able to open for takeaway service due to the restrictions.

Councillor Andy D’Agorne, deputy leader and executive member for transport, said:

We recognise that there is a balance to be struck between re-opening the city by extending footstreets whilst also ensuring disabled residents are able to access the city centre.

“Following further engagement we have looked to adapt these changes to better reflect the needs of everyone. We think this strikes the balance realising the benefits of footstreets for businesses and most of their customers whilst mitigating the negative impact for blue badge holders.

“When we no longer need to protect the people in our city centre from coronavirus, we will have to protect the large crowds which will return from the very different threat of terrorism.  It is right that we look now at the long-term footstreets arrangements as part of that protection working with businesses and all types of users to find the most appropriate solutions.” 

Council simplifies Tier 3 support grants for businesses

We will make Tier 3 grant support as simple and smooth as possible for York’s businesses – and urged qualifying companies who have not yet made a claim to make sure they are not missing out.

All businesses that have applied for and are receiving grants in Tier 2 do not need to reapply for Tier 3 grants. The council will automatically process the grants under existing schemes.

The council will automatically register and pay the appropriate grants to any business which has successfully applied for:
•    The Local Restrictions Grants brought in to support business through Tier 2
•    The Additional Restrictions Grant introduced to support businesses which were severely impacted, but not forced to close during November’s lockdown.
Tier 3 grants include:
•    Businesses forced to close by law, including most hospitality, indoor entertainment and accommodation, can access Local Restrictions Grants (Closed) of up to £3000, depending on their rateable value,  per month.
•    Businesses not forced to close but with trade reduced by over 75% due to the pandemic can receive between £500 and £3000 for every two weeks we remain in Tier 3.

These grants will be paid automatically – businesses do not need to contact the council.

Councillor Nigel Ayre, executive member for performance and finance, said:

Throughout the pandemic we’ve made sure that York’s businesses are getting their grants as quickly as possible.

“As we move into Tier 3, we want to remove any additional stress so if we can pay grants based on existing information, we will.  

“So if you have applied for grants in the last 8 weeks, you shouldn’t have to reapply now.”

Councillor Andrew Waller, executive member for the economy and strategic planning, said:

Making sure grants get to businesses as quickly and simply as possible has been central to our pandemic response. This protects jobs, the supply chain and the city’s wider economy.

“If you haven’t applied for a grant recently, please check what you may be eligible for and apply straight away www.york.gov.uk/COVID19BusinessGrants. Council staff are once again ready to put in a huge effort to get this money into businesses bank accounts as quickly as possible

“While we have shaped the Additional Restricted Grants to help catch some of the businesses that have missed out on government support, we’re continuing to call on the Government to deliver more.

“As always, I would urge businesses who have fallen through the cracks, to please contact us as soon as possible at economicgrowth@york.gov.uk  and thanks to all the businesses who have already got in touch with the team who are looking at ways to provide help,

“There is also a lot more local support for businesses beyond these grants. Please get in touch with Make it York, York BID or the Federation of Small Businesses as soon as possible to find out more.”

To get notification when grant applications open, and up to date info on other business support, sign up for our regular bulletins here https://www.york.gov.uk/form/EmailUpdates

Let’s look after each other

After the city woke up this morning in very high restrictions the council is reiterating that support is available for residents and businesses and asking people to look after each other.

From this morning York is under very high restrictions which mean:

  • We cannot mix with other households indoors
  • We can only meet people outdoors in open public spaces in groups of up to six (that means we can no longer meet in private gardens)
  • Reduce your number of journeys, avoid travel outside the area unless needed
  • Work from home if possible
  • All hospitality is closed, except for takeaways and deliveries
  • Retail can remain open

More details are available on the government and council websites.

Recently York has seen a sharp increase in the number of Coronavirus cases which is placing pressure on health services. The validated rate at 24 December stands at 240.2 cases per 100,000, above the regional average of 175.6. Cases are continuing to rise with the provisional rate for York standing at 312.4 per 100,000 at 28 December.

If you’re struggling to manage, or you don’t have any support, but need it because of COVID-19, our helpline is here to help you through this difficult time. Contact the Council by email: covid19help@york.gov.uk or telephone: 01904 551550.

During this period of very high restrictions residents are being asked to keep it safe, keep it local and support local businesses.

Keith Aspden, Leader of the Council, said:

These restrictions mean further changes to the way we live our lives and, undoubtedly, this will be difficult for many.

“The spirit of our wonderful city has been demonstrated throughout this pandemic and I know we will all do what we can to look after each other.

“Please check in on friends, family and neighbours in a Covid-secure way and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

“Please also remember to support our local businesses, who have done so much for our local communities throughout the year. Shops remain open and some bars and restaurants will be offering takeaway and delivery services.”

Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health, said:

We have reached the end of an incredibly challenging year for the city. Whilst we are all glad to see the back of 2020, please be safe and see in the new year at home.

“We need to all take extra care as the virus is increasing across the city. These next few months will be difficult but with the vaccine rollout there is hope but we aren’t there yet. Remember that 1 in 3 people do not have symptoms of the virus but may still be infectious. So take steps to protect yourself and remember hands, face, space.

“Looking after our physical and mental health will be vital. Please continue to exercise outdoors but do so safely, following the new rules and keeping a safe distance from those we don’t live with.”

By working together we can save lives, please:

  • Meet others outside and in small numbers (the rule of six applies)
  • Wash your hands regularly for 20 seconds or more with soap and water
  • Wear a face covering when in busy public spaces
  • Give people space – 2m is best
  • Self-isolate when asked to by test and trace or if you have symptoms
  • Get a symptom-free test if you are eligible (book online)

“Make it York” tourist organisation heading for £1 million loss.

Faces closure within weeks unless bail out agree by York Council

A report to a York Council meetings shows its “Make it York” subsidiary could post a £1.2 million loss during the present financial year.

It means that the Directors of the, wholly Council owned, tourist business could be forced to wind up the organisation within the next few weeks.

The Council is being asked to step in and provide a substantial financial subsidy. The proposals include plans to;

  1. Waive the requirement for MIY to make a revenue return to the council in 20/21 in respect of trading activity across the city centre
  2. Defer the first two quarters rent due from MIY in 20/21 for use of premises on Museum Street and Silver Street offices
  3. A loan facility from the council of £300k to be accessed by MIY only if necessary
  4. provide a letter of guarantee to MIY with access to a maximum of £1m over the next 2 years should it be required.

MIY normally produces a net income to the Council of around £35,000. The company is responsible for tourist information services in the City, runs the Shambles market, organises special events like the Christmas Fair (cancelled this year) and promotes the City as a business destination.

Private sector membership of the organisation has collapsed in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic with the hospitality industry being one of the hardest hit. Redundancies at MIY are expected.

The immediate hit on the Councils budget will be the loss of income from the Shambles market. This will be in the order of £474,000. That figure may grow substantially if the organisations recovery plan is not successful during the next few years.

MIY is the second tourist organisation to seek taxpayers help. The Council agreed to provide a further £55,000 subsidy for Welcome to Yorkshire at its last meeting.

MIY balance sheet (click)

Coronavirus York updates; 4th December 2020

Deaths and test results

TWO (2) further Coronavirus deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust today. One occurred on Tuesday and one on Thursday. The cumulative second wave death toll now stands at 97 for the York and Scarborough Hospitals

FIFTEEN (15) additional positive test results announced today. Brings cumulative total to 5710.

The case rate /110k population figure has now dropped to 68.3. That means that the rate has halved in little over one week.

There have also been improvements in the figures at county, regional and national levels.

Six neighbourhoods are now virtually virus free. Only 4 cases have been recorded between New Earswick, Rawcliffe, Holgate West, Heworth North, Copmanthorpe and Dunnington

Only seven neighbourhoods are now above the 100 case threshold

In some neighbourhoods the infection rates are fluctuating quite a lot. This is partly the consequence of only very small variances in the numbers. One area that has seen a significant reduction in cases is Holgate West/Westfield East.

Manor School

ALMOST 100 pupils at Manor school have been told to self isolate after two cases of coronavirus were confirmed.

Manor CE Academy said it was advised by Public Health England yesterday that there was a confirmed case of Covid-19 within the school, and a further case was confirmed this morning.

A total of 96 students have been identified as having direct prolonged contact with the confirmed cases, They have all been contacted and instructed to self-isolate. The school remains open and all other children should continue to attend if they remain well.

York Police go online to listen to public feedback

The officers who keep York city centre residents, businesses and visitors safe are going online to get people’s feedback about policing issues.

With COVID-19 reducing the opportunities for officers to meet and talk to members of the public face-to-face, the team is now turning to video call technology to help.

More people than ever are using Zoom, Microsoft Teams, FaceTime and other video calling services to keep up with family, friends and colleagues. And in York city centre, they can now do the same with their local police team.

Sergeant Nick Plumb said: “We’re always really keen to listen to your feedback – even when we can’t do this in person. If you visit or work in York city centre, and would like to bring an issue to our attention, or ask us any questions about policing, this is a great opportunity to do so.”

Inspector Andy Godfrey and Sergeant Nick Plumb will be available online between 5pm and 6.30pm on Tuesday 8 December 2020.

To take part, simply email snayorkcity@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk. Please include your name, address, and contact phone number, as well as a brief idea of what you want to discuss. (If a number of people have the same concerns as you, you may be able to take part in a joint session).

The video calls will take place over Microsoft Teams – attendees will receive a personal invitation via email, which can be used in any web browser, without having to create an account.

Business grants alerts – time running out

Thousands of York businesses that have missed out on Government grants could, be eligible for an Additional Restrictions Grant – but they have to apply before Monday 7 December.

The council is urging businesses, especially those without rateable premises or that operate earlier in the supply chain, to check if they are eligible for support.

Your business may be eligible if it:

  • operates from a permanent fixed premises in York, with trade impacted by 75% or more due to lockdown restrictions
  • doesn’t operate from a fixed premises in York, but usually trades in York 75% or more of the time, and you’re a York resident

In addition the business must also:

  • not qualify for the Lockdown Restrictions Grant
  • have been unable to provide its usual in-person customer service from the business premises

Your business will not be eligible if:

  • you started trading on or after 5 November 2020
  • you’re able to continue to operate during local or national restrictions, because you don’t depend on providing direct, in-person, services from your premises
  • your business hasn’t seen a reduction in income of 75% or more
  • your business is in administration, insolvent, or has had a striking off notice made against it
  • you have already been awarded a Lockdown Restrictions Grant
  • you’re not a York resident trading in York for 75% or more of the time
  • you don’t have a fixed business premises in York
  • you’ve reached the state aid limit

Businesses that receive 100 percent rate relief are eligible to apply.

Alongside this scheme businesses who already qualified at Tier 2 will continue to get payments on a fortnightly basis (Tier reviews are fortnightly). Any business that has not applied yet for tier 2 but believe they will qualify can make a claim.

Businesses can apply for open grants at www.york.gov.uk/COVID19BusinessGrants

To get notification when grant applications open, and up to date info on other business support, sign up for our regular bulletins here www.york.gov.uk/form/EmailUpdates

Coronavirus York updates; 24th November 2020

Christmas

Households across the UK will be able to form a “Christmas bubble” with two other households during a five-day window over the festive period, it has been announced.

Between 23 to 27 December, people will be able to meet with those two other households in their bubble – but only in a private home, a place of worship or outdoor public spaces.

Travel restrictions across the whole of the UK will also be lifted during the five-day period, allowing people to travel between countries or between tiers in order to meet with those in their bubble.

Deaths and test results

ONE additional death reported by the York Hospital Trust. It occurred on Saturday. The cumulative second wave death toll at York and Scarborough hospitals is now 62.

THREE more care home deaths have been announced. ONE occurred on 17th November and TWO on the 19th. The cumulative second wave death toll in local care homes has now reached seven (CQC figures).

There is some concern in the City that any decision, on which “Tier” York will find itself in on Thursday, may be influenced by hospital capacity issues. The above hospital deaths figure may not tell the whole story.

The Trust has not broken down the split in fatalities between the York and Scarborough units. Furthermore, the NHS is (rightly) flexing its capacity to address peaks in different parts of the region, so there may be some non York residents included in the recent 62 reported fatalities.

An alternative way of looking at the issue is by analysing the data on death occurrences provide by the ONS (click) and which relates to people normally resident in York.

This shows that there have so far been 185 fatalities this year as a result of COVID.

However, only 14 of these have occurred since the beginning of September. Of these, 8 were hospital deaths

Even allowing for some delay in figures coming through, that represents a more encouraging picture.

Deaths to 13th November 2020

There have been 29 new positive test results announced today. That is the lowest daily total since September. It brings the total number of cases to 5518.

The daily new infection rate (7 day rolling average) is now below 40.

Only two neighbourhoods in York are now above the national infection rate. They are Clifton Without and Skelton (following a recent spike) and Heslington where case levels are reducing only slowly.

Elsewhere in the City case numbers are generally falling steadily.

Extra financial support for York businesses

Even more York businesses impacted by the latest lockdown can benefit from financial support as City of York Council launches a new grant scheme today.

The council has worked with partners and business leaders to decide how to most fairly and effectively use the discretionary Additional  Restrictions Grant.

Businesses now have until Monday 7 December to apply for the grants, which are open to:

  • Businesses effectively forced to close through lockdown but don’t qualify for government grants, whether they are liable for business rates or not.
  • Businesses where trade is impacted by more than 75% due to lockdown, whether they are liable for business rates or not.

Applications must be from:

  • A York-based business which have fixed premises in York – (note fixed premises is not a market stall or pitch) or
  • businesses run by a York resident and trade is at least 75% in York (note this could be a market stall or pitch).

The council is also preparing a voucher scheme for local businesses to access support like training form local providers.

Business must not be in administration, insolvent, or have a striking off notice made against it, must have started trading before 5 November 2020, and not in receipt of unoccupied rates for business rates.

For more information about all the grants available for business affected currently visit the council website.

Coronavirus York updates; 6th Nov. 2020

Deaths and test results

Number of Coronavirus cases in City passes 4000

There have been no additional deaths at York Hospital Trust announced today.

56 (FIFTY SIX) additional positive test results announced today bringing the cumulative total to 4040. The 3000 case milestone was passed on 19th October.

The rate of infection has now stabilised at 56 new cases each day. To put this into figure context the highest new case rate number record during the first wave was 29.1 on 5th May. (There has been a higher testing rate recently).

The infection rate in the City is still below the county, regional and national rate.

Only two wards (Heslington and Strensall) are above the national average infection rate.

All the figures predate the lockdown period which started yesterday. It will be at least a week before the impact of the new restrictions on infection rates can be monitored.

Updated Council briefing

The data is accurate as at 8.00 a.m. on Friday 06.11.20. Some narrative for the data covering the latest period is provided here below:

People with Covid Symptoms

• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 2.11.20 there had been 199 total covid triages in the CYC area in the last 7 days. The peak number of triages was 653 in the 7 day period to 20.9.20.

• As at 5.11.20, the Covid Symptom App estimates 677.8 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 5,058 people). The peak rate was 1,116.3 on 31.10.20.

Diagnosed cases (Pillar 1&2 combined)

• As at 5.11.20 York has had 3,984 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 1,892 per 100,000 of population. The rate in York is above the national average (1,697.1) but below the regional average (2,666.9).

• The PHE ‘Exceedance’ rating compares the no. of new cases over a 14 day period with the previous 6 weeks and provides a RAG rating to indicate if the previously observed trend in the no. of new cases is worsening. The latest rating for York (2.11.20) is Green.

• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 28.10.20 to 3.11.20 in York is 178.05 (using data published on Gov.uk on 5.11.20).

• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 25.10.20 to 31.10.20 was 184.2. The national and regional averages at this date were 231.0 and 410.5 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 5.11.20).

• As at 2.11.20, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 only) was 11.8%. The national and regional averages are 11.3% and 17.3% respectively. The number of Pillar 2 tests being carried out in York has fallen by about a quarter in the last week.

• As at 5.11.20 York University reported 66 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test.

• As at 4.11.20 York St. John reported 22 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test.

Contact Tracing

• Since 28.5.20 a total of 3,418 laboratory confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 2,943 of the cases have been engaged. 10,486 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 6,174 of these have been traced.

Deaths

The two sources about deaths from Covid-19 at LA level are ONS data and local registrar data. They are derived from the same source (civil registration data). ONS data is more comprehensive as it includes deaths of York residents which have occurred and been registered outside York. Local registrar data is useful as it provides a breakdown by age and gender. The most recently available data is summarised below:

• ONS weekly data: For deaths occurring up to 23rd October 2020 and registered up to 31st October 2020, 176 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (84 in hospital, 78 in care homes, 10 at home and 4 in a hospice). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 83.56 which is lower than the national average of 93.06. The most recent death reported for a York resident occurred in week 43 (17 to 23 October).

• ‘Excess’ deaths (ONS). In week 43 (17 Oct to 23 Oct), 37 deaths occurred for York residents, which is 4 more than the average weekly number for 2014-18. Over the last 22 weeks the total number of deaths in York has been 36 fewer than the average for the equivalent weeks in 2014-18.

• Local Registrar data: In the weekly data received on 2.11.20 (for deaths occurring up to 28.10.20), a cumulative total of 168 deaths of CYC residents where COVID-19 was mentioned (confirmed or suspected) on the death certificate, have been registered. The average age of the people who died was 82.6, with an age range of 53-104. The age profile of those dying in York is slightly older than the national average. 88 of the 168 were male (52.4%), slightly less than the national average (55.2%). 72 people (42.9%) died in nursing /care homes (the national average is 28.6%). In addition 13 people (7.74%) who normally resided in nursing/care homes in the CYC area, died in hospital.

Data on deaths occurring in hospital are shown below. Deaths are initially reported for York NHS Foundation Trust which includes Scarborough Hospital and the further breakdown by site can be delayed. From local registrar data, 55.1% of COVID-19 deaths occurring at York Hospital have been CYC residents. (NB NHS Trusts record deaths following a positive covid-19 test (within 28 days) whereas ONS record deaths where covid-19 in mentioned on the death certificate so the totals are not the same).

• Deaths at York Hospital: As at 5.11.20, 149 deaths (awaiting confirmation of breakdown by hospital site for recent deaths) where the person had tested positive for COVID-19 and were being cared for at York Hospital have been reported. 237 deaths have been reported by the wider York NHS Trust.

Economic support

The Government has announced a series of economic support measures to coincide with the national measures:
• Business premises forced to close in England due to local or national restrictions are to receive grants worth up to £3,000 a month under the Local Restrictions Support Grant.
• For properties with a rateable value of £15k or under, grants to be £1,334 per month, or £667 per two weeks;
• For properties with a rateable value of between £15k-£51k grants to be £2,000 per month, or £1,000 per two weeks;
• For properties with a rateable value of £51k or over grants to be £3,000 per month, or £1,500 per two weeks.
• £1.1 billion is being given to local authorities, distributed on the basis of £20 per head, for one-off payments to enable us to support businesses more broadly.

The LGA and councils are engaging closely with central government officials on what these business support measures mean for councils, including new burdens payments and what happens with grants previously announced such as the discretionary support for ‘Tier 2’ areas. We will update you on this in future bulletins as we receive further information.
The Government has also announced –
•The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been extended until December with employees receiving 80 per cent of their current salary for hours not worked, up to a maximum of £2,500. The LGA guidance on the scheme has been updated. The Government has confirmed that partially publicly funded bodies may be eligible to access the scheme where their private revenues have been disrupted.
•The Government announced today that support for self-employed people will rise to 80 per cent of trading profits during November.
•Mortgage holidays will also no longer end. The Financial Conduct Authority will announce further information today.

If the new government schemes have missed your business that needs help please email economicgrowth@york.gov.uk

For more information visit https://www.york.gov.uk/BusinessSupport?mc_cid=af5d308e56&mc_eid=b6a0c91609#grant

Extension to furlough

The national furlough scheme has today been extended by The Chancellor until March 2021. The scheme will continue to pay up to 80% of a person’s wage up to £2,500 a month. The scheme will be reviewed in January 2021.

As part of the revised scheme, anyone made redundant after 23 September can be rehired and put back on furlough.

The next self-employed income support grant will also increase from 55% to 80% of average profits – up to £7,500

For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-extends-furlough-to-march-and-increases-self-employed-support

Coronavirus York updates; 5th November 2020

Deaths and test results

3 (THREE) additional deaths announced today at the York Hospital Trust. Two occurred on Tuesday and one on Wednesday.

59 (FIFTY NINE) new positive test results announced today. Cumulative total now 3984.

Downward trend in new cases has continued but rate of reduction is slowing.

York is now below North Yorkshire, Yorkshire and England infection rates.

The latest testing figures suggest that around 800 tests are being carried out each day in the City. Less than 20% are proving to be positive and the proportion of positives is gradually falling

City centre quiet as lockdown starts

As expected most of the City was noticeably quieter today. However there were more people around than had been the case in April. Schools remained open, public transport was running and more shops were also trading. In the City centre Marks and Spencer had a steady stream of customers.

Things were closer to normal on some suburban shopping streets where the most significant sign of the new restrictions was that hairdressers and charity shops had remained closed.

Several food shops open in Acomb Front Street.
High Ousegate quieter than normal (!)
Short Que at Marks and Spencer where the Big Issue seller had made an effort to stir Christmas spirit.
The level of the River Ouse is slowly receding

Latest from York Council

Following guidance from the Government we can confirm that the following council services and facilities will still be available to residents: public toilets, parks and children’s play areas and household waste and recycling sites will remain open

Public meetings will continue remotely with residents encouraged to take part children’s and adults services will continue with further guidance expected

York, Tang Hall and Acomb libraries will remain open for people to go into to use the public computers and to collect items ordered online. All others will close.

There will be some services which are impacted by the new regulations, including: foot streets restrictions will revert to finishing at 5pm rather than 8pm and the temporary loading bans will be removed. This is to ensure additional help for local businesses moving to delivery services

Wedding services will not be going ahead during lockdown outdoor and indoor gyms, sports facilities and swimming pools will be closed
the Mansion House will be closed

We will be holding our next Facebook live on Wednesday 11 November, from 5:30 – 6:30pm, with a focus on emotional health and education. You can submit your questions in advance by emailing them to YourQuestions@york.gov.uk.
Getting the help you need
These will be difficult times for many of us. If you are struggling, please talk to someone. Our helpline is still running to provide support, whether that be collecting food and medicines, or giving advice. The helpline is available on 01904 551550 or by emailing
COVID19help@york.gov.uk, where our volunteers and staff will be able to help you.
Getting exercise, ideally in the fresh air, can make a real difference to your physical and emotional health and will help make the next month more bearable. Remember, you can also meet one person from another household for outdoor exercise which is vital if you live on your own.
The Every Mind Matters campaign has lots of helpful tips for everyone to look after their emotional health. You can find their website at: www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters.
Live Well York have directions on how to access a range of free support and services. You can find directories of help and advice on their website at: https://www.livewellyork.co.uk/s4s/WhereILive/Council?pageId=2251&lockLA=True
As a city we always look after each other and this has been demonstrated time and time again this year.
Anyone needing help, be it food or medicine collections or someone to talk to our helpline is there to help you. Call 01904 551550 or email COVID19help@york.gov.uk to ask for help. For information on what financial support may be available visit www.york.gov.uk/COVIDfinancialsupport. This includes details of the £500 self-isolation payment which you may be eligible. You can find out more at: https://publichealthmatters.blog.gov.uk/2020/09/28/coronavirus-covid-19-self-isolating-protects-your-friends-family-and-community All the latest government advice can be found at
https://nhs.uk/coronavirus
Please visit our coronavirus webpages: https://www.york.gov.uk/coronavirus. For more news from us, visit: https://www.york.gov.uk/news Information on council services during the national restrictions can be found at: https://www.york.gov.uk/news/article/383/council-supports-york-through-the-national-restrictions

Coronavirus York updates; 18th September 2020

Deaths and test results

An additional SEVENTEEN positive test results were announced today bringing the total number of cases to 1102.

Around 11 new cases are being found each day. That compares to the highest, 7 day moving average, number of new cases in the first wave in May which was 29.

The worst affected neighbourhoods are currently Tang Hall, Haxby and the City Centre. A map showing the distribution of cases can be found by clicking here

There have been no more hospital deaths. The last Coronavirus related death in the City occurred in July.

Latest commentary from York Council on pandemic trends

Diagnosed cases (Pillar 1&2 combined)

• As at 17.9.20 York has had 1,085 cases, a rate of 515.2 per 100,000 of population. The rate in York is lower than national (584.9) and regional (757) averages.

• The PHE ‘Exceedance’ rating compares the no. of new cases over a 14 day period with the previous 6 weeks and provides a RAG rating to indicate if the previously observed trend in the no. of new cases is worsening. The latest rating for York (14.9.20) is Red. The rating was triggered by a higher than ‘expected’ number of cases per 100 tests five times in the last 14 days. We know that in recent weeks the number of cases have been low in York which has an effect on the thresholds used to determine the RAG rating – a small change can mean the difference between a red, amber and green rating. The exceedance rating should not be considered in isolation but in context alongside other factors such as the recent total number of cases, COVID related deaths, outbreaks as well as changes in the local testing regime and local hotspot analysis.

• The latest weekly National Covid-19 Surveillance Report released on 11.9.20 and covering the week up to 6.9.20, showed that the 7 day rate of new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 population tested under Pillar 1 and 2 was 12.86 for York. York was ranked 47th out of 149 local authorities (with 1 being the lowest rate).

• The latest validated 7 day rate of new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 population for York is 30. This is for the 7 day period up to 11.9.20. This excludes cases with a sample date in the last few days due to partial data and lags in reporting. The rate in York is increasing but remains lower than national (34.1) and regional (49.1) averages.

• As at 14.9.20, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 only) was 3.15% (66 positives out of 2,097 tests). The national and regional averages are 2.1% and 3.2% respectively.

• As at 15.9.20 the latest 14 day positivity rates in York were 0.4% for Pillar 1; 4.5% for Pillar 2 and 3.1% overall. The national averages were 1.2%, 3.9% and 3.1% respectively.

Deaths

The two sources about deaths from Covid-19 at LA level are ONS data and local registrar data. They are derived from the same source (civil registration data). ONS data is more comprehensive as it includes deaths of York residents which have occurred and been registered outside York. Local registrar data is useful as it provides a breakdown by age and gender. The most recently available data is summarised below:

• ONS weekly data: For deaths occurring up to 4th September 2020 and registered up to 12th September 2020, 171 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (83 in hospital, 76 in care homes, 9 at home and 3 in a hospice. The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 81.19 which is lower than the national average of 88.43. The most recent death reported for a York resident was in week 31 (25 to 31 July).

• ‘Excess’ deaths (ONS). In week 36 (29 August to 4 Sept), 40 deaths occurred in York, which is 9 more than the average weekly number for 2014-18. Over the last 15 weeks the total number of deaths in York has been 36 fewer than the average for the equivalent weeks in 2014-18.

• Local Registrar data: In the weekly data received on 14.9.20 (for deaths occurring up to 9.9.20), a cumulative total of 162 deaths of CYC residents where COVID-19 was mentioned (confirmed or suspected) on the death certificate, have been registered. The average age of the people who died was 82.47, with an age range of 53-104. The age profile of those dying in York is slightly older than the national average. 86 of the 162 were male (53.1%), slightly less than the national average (55%). 81 of the deaths occurred in hospital and 81 were community deaths (e.g. at home or in a care home or hospice). 70 people (43.2%) died in nursing /care homes (the national average is 29.53%). In addition 13 people (8%) who normally resided in nursing/care homes in the CYC area, died in hospital.

Data on deaths occurring in hospital are shown below. Deaths are initially reported for York NHS Foundation Trust which includes Scarborough Hospital and the further breakdown by site can be delayed. From local registrar data, 58.5% of COVID-19 deaths occurring at York Hospital have been CYC residents. (NB NHS Trusts record deaths following a positive covid-19 test whereas ONS record deaths where covid-19 in mentioned on the death certificate so the totals are not the same).

• Deaths at York Hospital: As at 17.9.20, 134 deaths of people who had tested positive for COVID-19 and were being cared for at York Hospital have been reported. 214 deaths have been reported by the wider York NHS Trust

Disabled and less mobile residents invited to online workshop about city centre accessibility

City of York Council is inviting disabled and less mobile people across York to an online workshop on 23 September.

The council want residents to let them know how city centre changes made in response to coronavirus have affected accessibility.

Emergency measures were agreed by the council executive back in June 2020 to expand a number of city centre ‘footstreets’ to allow more space for social distancing and give business the opportunity to take advantage of pavement trading. 

These steps were taken to  support the council’s Economic Recovery – Transport and Place One Year Strategy, agreed upon by the Executive on 24 June 2020. The strategy aims to reassure and demonstrate to residents, visitors  and stakeholders that York is a safe, healthy and attractive place for everyone.

As a result of these changes, blue badge parking was relocated to a variety of locations around the edges of the city centre. In addition, a free taxi service has been available between Monk Bar car park and St Andrewgate to improve access to the city.

In light of these fast-paced changes, the council want to hear from all disabled and less mobile people in York, whether they use a blue badge or not, and any other residents who feel the footstreets extension has affected their ability to access the city centre.

You can join the conversation in a number of ways:

The council is trying to contact every disabled group in the city. If you are part of a group or network that would like to discuss the changes, please contact us on OurBigConversation@york.gov.uk

Rules – Testing and mitigating the transmission of Covid-19

You may be aware that the national Covid-19 testing programme is under pressure, with high demand impacting capacity.

It is important to get tested if you develop the main symptoms of Covid-19, which are a high temperature, a new and repetitive dry cough, or a change in sense of taste or smell. These are currently the main symptoms that would trigger the need for a test.

If you are otherwise unwell with different symptoms, you do not currently need to get a Covid-19 test. Getting a test when you do not have Covid-19 related symptoms will reduce the capacity of the system to test those who do have symptoms.

To access a test, you can either use the online testing booking portal: https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test, or by calling 119.

Testing is one element of an infection prevention and control process. Whilst testing can be provide a reassurance and enable the contact tracing process to begin where this might be delayed, there are many other steps that can still be taken which are effective: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/wuhan-novel-coronavirus-infection-prevention-and-control/updates-to-the-infection-prevention-and-control-guidance-for-covid-19

The most effective action we can all take if we experience symptoms is to self-isolate and request a test. There may currently be delays or reduced access to testing appointments, if you experience difficulties accessing a test, please keep trying.

Self-isolating as a household when one household member has symptoms is necessary. Please familiarise yourself with the online guidance on self-isolation: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-stay-at-home-guidance, and on what the definition of a close contact is, available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-for-contacts-of-people-with-possible-or-confirmed-coronavirus-covid-19-infection-who-do-not-live-with-the-person/guidance-for-contacts-of-people-with-possible-or-confirmed-coronavirus-covid-19-infection-who-do-not-live-with-the-person

If you have any of the Covid-19 symptoms, you must self-isolate straight away for 10 days – or longer if you still have symptoms. If you live in the same household as someone with coronavirus symptoms, you must self-isolate straight away for 14 days. This is because of the incubation period for the virus and the amount of time in which you are at risk of infecting others if you do have the virus.

York Council reacts to increase in cases – Let’s keep safe

As numbers of confirmed Coronavirus cases increase locally and nationally, City of York Council is encouraging residents and businesses to continue their work in keeping each other safe.

Since the pandemic began, businesses and residents have gone to great efforts to protect each other.   Data from Google mobility showed that York residents stayed home more than anywhere else in the region during lockdown, whilst businesses across the city have adapted to delivering their services differently to keep people safe.

However, in line with the national trend, cases are increasing in the city.  Therefore, it is vital that people stay vigilant and practice good public health measures and remember: Hands. Face. Space.

Following an increase in cases across the country, Monday saw the introduction of the rule of six, meaning you must not meet in a group of more than 6, indoors or outdoors. Meeting in groups of more than six is now against the law and the police have the powers to enforce these legal limits, including to issue fines (fixed penalty notices) of £100, doubling for further breaches up to a maximum of £3,200.   

The rule of six means you can only meet with people outside of your household group in a group of no more than 6 people.  This applies whether you are meeting in your home, outside in the park or at a venue like a restaurant. 

Please remember that the principles remain, to stop the spread of the virus we all need to all remember:

  • Hands – Wash your hands regularly and for 20 seconds or more each time
  • Face – Wear a face covering in public spaces it isn’t easy to social distance in (plus be considerate of those who are exempt and share pictures of you wearing them on social media as part of the #WeveGotItCovered campaign!)
  • Space – Keep our distance – 2m is best
  • Test – Stay at home if you have symptoms and ask for a test.

The council is aware that due to testing capacity challenges nationally, some people here are struggling to access a test. For now, people with symptoms (a dry continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss of or change in sense of taste and smell) are asked to self-isolate at home until they are able to get a test.  The Council continues to press the Government for more testing capacity locally, following letters to the Secretary of State.

Last night saw the North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum outline work putting in place additional measures and declaring a major incident to slow the spread in some parts of the County following increasing cases in North Yorkshire. In York, we are asking residents and businesses to be vigilant and remember hands, face, space to keep you and your communities safe.

York Council, still facing £20.4 million budget deficit.

Footfall in City centre up

The York Council says that it still faces a £20.4 million budget shortfall as a result of the COVID crisis.

The figures will be presented to a meeting next week They vary little from what has previously been published with the bulk of the shortfall (£16 million) being in anticipated reductions in Council Tax and Business Rate income following a rise in unemployment levels. .  

The biggest hit is expected during the next financial year when the Councils reserves will hit a low point.

There is still little evidence that the council is controlling its expenditure levels. There has been no freeze on new expenditure commitments.

One encouraging trend is in visitor numbers in the City centre.  

Marygate car park full

Officials say that use is now at 80% of car park capacity.

Footfall is at 70% of normal levels. This is higher than in other cities (50%) and bears out our own observations.

Use of public transport is still much reduced.

Despite the obvious increasing demand for car parking there is no mention in the report about the controversial decision to take 40 spaces at Marygate out of use.

Nor is there any acknowledgement that the number of spaces allocated for disabled use at Monk Bar is excessive. Most there are never used.

These spaces could be generating additional income for the Council and, of course, their occupants would be likely to be spending in local shops, restaurants and visitor attractions.

The income loss to the Council from the 70 unused spaces is estimated to be £5000 a week.

The Council says that changed highways layouts have “largely been well received”. They base this claim on the responses to a survey question (“big conversation”) where 62% said that they agreed with the extension of the “foot-streets”.

This may be so, but the council failed to include questions in its survey about individual actions like the reduction in car parking provision. Without such feedback, it is impossible to judge which of the changes enjoys popular support.

There is no acknowledgement that faulty car park ticket machines and unreliable advanced space availability signs remain an issue.

The Council is promising to consult with disabled residents about their transport needs. It will spend £25,000 doing so.

As usual the suburban and secondary shopping areas are ignored by officials.

Front Street needs more shoppers

There is clearly an economic opportunity for areas like Acomb if they can attract those who feel let down by some of the travel restrictions.

Opening Front Street to blue badge holders, on one or two days a week, would cost little but could stimulate footfall in what is another another beleaguered trading area.

So how did the first days shopping go around York

Neighbourhoods

Local shopping streets like Foxwood Lane/Beagle Ridge Drive mostly continued trading through the lock-down. All but the hairdressers are open. No problems with parking today and a few shoppers around at lunchtime

Coop on Beagle Ride Drive has been popular throughout the lock-down period
Secondary shopping area

Acomb is York’s second largest shopping area. Its focal store (Morrisons) has remained open throughout the pandemic and has undertaken an increased number of home deliveries

Acomb Car park about 505 full at lunchtime today
Most shops in Acomb have reopened. Exceptions are hairdressers, a charity outlet and cafes (although outside/takeaway service available.
A “nail bar” will open ins an empty unit shortly
Specialist shopping streets

Bishopthorpe Road has established a reputation for itself as a bijou shopping destination with good quality independents predominating. It became mired in controversy a few weeks ago when local Councillors campaigned successfully for the road to be closed to southbound vehicles. It is unclear how this has affected trade but the area was generally quiet today at lunchtime. Road works start on nearby Nunnery Lane this evening. Most shops are open. There was limited space in the dedicated car park

The contraflow cycle “lane” is controversial. The existing northbound cycle lane has been abandoned.
The bollards were placed on the road to encourage social distancing.
Road works starting this evening

We’ll take a separate look at how the first day of the city centre shopping arrangements have gone.

Coronavirus York updates; 5th June 2020

No further deaths

For the fifth successive day there have been no further deaths at the York hospital

Small business grant payments start – businesses encouraged to apply

City of York Council is encouraging eligible businesses to apply now for the upgraded scheme small and micro grant scheme, which has been created to support local businesses.

Grants payments between £1000 and £10,000 will support small businesses, including those in shared offices and flexible work spaces, science parks and incubators, regular market traders without a business rates assessment, nurseries, B&Bs paying council tax instead of business rates, and charity properties which all missed out under previous schemes are also eligible.

Small business and childcare nurseries                        up to  £10000

Micro business                                                              up to    £5000

B&Bs and market traders who live in York                    up to   £2,500

Self-employed with fixed property costs                       up to    £1000

To apply, businesses must have been trading before 11 March 2020, have a rateable value or annual mortgage of below £51,000, and demonstrate both an ongoing fixed property cost and significant financial impact of the coronavirus. It is not available to any business eligible for any other government COVID grant.

Grant payments are being processed in batches, with the first batch set to land in businesses accounts on Friday 5 June. The council is also telling businesses that have applied not to worry if they don’t receive their payment advice this weekend – there will be further payments every Friday over the next four weeks.

Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council, said:

“I’m pleased to see that our local grants payments are already being paid to small and micro businesses across the city, in order to help them through this incredibly tough time.”

“York’s small and micro businesses are at the heart of our vibrant economy and I would urge businesses who are yet to apply, to get in touch and apply for the support as soon as possible.  As restrictions are eased, more small and micro businesses are reopening, so we understand how important these cash injections can be.

“From the very beginning of this crisis, we have worked to ensure our local businesses received swift support from the Council, particularly those who did not meet the criteria for government support.  I am pleased that City of York Council has been recognized as one of the fastest local authorities in the country to distribute grants and rates relief, totalling £33m so far.”

“We will continue to make the case to Government, with our partners, to lobby for further financial support to support all our businesses, particularly as we work to put in place the foundations of our economic recovery.”

Councillor Andrew Waller, executive member for the economy and strategic planning, said:

“Staff across the council have worked quickly to process grants, with payments landing in businesses bank accounts shortly after the announcement of the scheme.

“Considerable effort and resource has been deployed to carry out the required checks as quickly as possible, in order to get these payments to businesses who need them after falling through the cracks of government support.

“I’d encourage businesses to check the eligibility criteria for these grants and apply as soon as possible if they are able to do so. We are already seeing the positive affect they are having for businesses during this incredibly difficult period.

“Businesses can check eligibility and apply at www.york.gov.uk/COVIDMicroGrant.”

The council is using an additional £2.2m discretionary government fund to expand its own small and micros grant scheme, which has already supported over 3,000 local businesses affected by coronavirus.

The council acted quickly to distribute £110m of grants and rates relief to over 4000 York businesses, and created its own £1m grant scheme to support over 1000 more businesses, which did not qualify for government support.

Under the discretionary fund, local authorities have been given an additional 5% of the total value of grants already distributed in York, together with some government rules and outline guidance on which businesses should benefit. However, this means councils have to use local knowledge to decide how to fairly distribute the money, as to benefit as many businesses as possible in the city.

Companies that are in financial difficulties because they fall outside the Government set limits are asked to contact Make it York to discuss their options. They can email business@makeityork.comCOMMENT ON THIS PAGE

York Council celebrates all those caring for others

Carers: Unskilled Labour, Or Our Most Undervalued Resource?

In Carers Week (8-14 June) the council is inviting health and care services, schools, employers and businesses to celebrate and support the vital contribution by unpaid carers across the city.

This year in particular, tribute is paid to the enormous contribution made by unpaid carers during the coronavirus pandemic. They continue to play an essential role supporting friends and family who are older, disabled or seriously ill.  

Where social distancing or shielding means that carers can’t do what they usually do, volunteers across the city have come forward. They have helped ensure that vital food supplies and medication are delivered, and that companionship and caring welfare calls continue to help keep people cared for and in contact with others.

Many people have found that during lockdown they have had to take on more caring responsibilities than usual. The council is encouraging them to contact the city’s Carer’s Centre to benefit from the support and advice it gives 01904 715490 or email enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk.

Cllr Carol Runciman, executive member for health and adult social care, said: “This Carers Week, we want to thank carers across the city more so than ever, for the amazing part they play in these extraordinary and challenging times.

“During this pandemic, so many people in York are caring for all parts of our community in new and different ways. We’ve been celebrating them and their work and making them more visible through our #YorkKind campaign. I thank them all.”

Carole Zagrovic at York Carers Centre, said: “We are delighted to be part of Carers Week to highlight the huge contribution unpaid carers make throughout our communities, often with little recognition or support for themselves. 

“Making Caring Visible is about all of us taking some time to think about what unpaid carers do. That can range from a few hours to pick up prescriptions or help with shopping to providing personal care day and night to a child, husband or wife with complex and worsening health conditions.

“This is the one week when we as a society can show our appreciation of the challenges carers face, particularly through this difficult time, and to acknowledge and respect their value in our communities.”

Specially for Carers Week and with social distancing in mind, many individuals and organisations – including York’s Carers’ Centre – are hosting or getting involved with virtual activities, to help carers to connect to others and access advice and information. To find out more visit https://www.yorkcarerscentre.co.uk/2020/05/carers-week-2020/ or go to https://www.carersweek.org/get-involved/events-near-you .

For more information, support and advice please contact the Carers Centre on 01904 715490 or email enquiries@yorkcarerscentre.co.uk.