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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 says ‘we’ve got it covered’

Let's be York; safe, welcoming, considerate

Partners across York have joined forces to launch a campaign to reassure residents that safety measures have been put in place across the city.

The campaign encourages wider use of face coverings, hand washing and social distancing, in order to stop the spread of coronavirus.

With children returning to school, businesses opening their doors and the city preparing to welcome students, the city is showing how people are coming together to look after one another.

Over the coming weeks, the ‘we’ve got it covered campaign’ will show how organisations have put in place measures to make it easier for people to follow public health advice, in order to protect themselves and each other.

Those who can wear a face covering are being asked to wear one in any space they can’t socially distance from people outside their household, both indoors and outdoors.

The campaign is part of the Let’s Be York initiative encouraging people to be safe, welcoming and considerate in our fantastic city and to protect each other. The campaign will also remind people that, for very good reason, some individuals may not be able to wear a face covering and to support them as they move around the city safely.  It will also recognise the importance of handwashing, social distancing and staying at home and getting tested if you have symptoms.

A range of partners have come together to support the campaign, which shows how “we’ve got it covered” with the simple steps we can all take to protect each other.

Partners involved in the campaign are: City of York Council, NHS Vale of York CCG, York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, York BID, University of York, York St John University, York College, Askham Bryan College, First York, York CVS and St Leonard’s Hospice.

People can find out more details about the campaign and how they can get involved at: https://www.valeofyorkccg.nhs.uk/campaigns/weve-got-it-covered

COVID Grants – York fares poorly in handout to voluntary groups

Coronavirus Small Business Grant Fund - does your council have the correct details?

The York Council has emailed residents telling them;

“22 local charities will be receiving grants of up to £15,000, each from Two Ridings Community Foundation. This is to support their essential running costs over the next six months as they respond to the continuing double whammy of increased demand, and decreased fundraising caused by the Coronavirus crisis and lockdown. This funding is part of the £750 million pot announced by the Chancellor for frontline charities across the UK during the coronavirus outbreak.

These 22 awards, totalling £328,307 brings the amount distributed by Two Ridings in the last six months to £1,541,399!”

A full list can be read by clicking here

Unfortunately, only one York organisation is benefiting from a grant in this round.

 Move the Masses will get £14,950 in funding to “improve communication/marketing re: services/projects via website & social media updates. A new part of time member of staff is required for this”.

Move the Masses have promised to start a series of “Acomb Ambles” this month.

This would be welcomed by some. The York Council sponsored “York Health Walks” were suspended 6 months ago and show no signs of restarting. That is a shame as exercise and conversation can be an important antidote to feelings of isolation and depression.

Obviously the background to the health crisis has prompted new government restrictions as part of their reaction to  the “second wave”.  These come into force on Monday so there will be limits on what voluntary groups will actually be permitted to do..

Nevertheless, there are other organisations which need support not least those managing community centres which are a key part of life in parts of the City.

Hull Road/Osbaldwick Link Road junction improvements

Ageing and outdated traffic signals at the junction of Hull Road and Osbaldwick Road are set to be replaced next month.

This is part of a scheme to help improve pedestrian access and ease congestion in the area.

The works will include replacing all the ageing traffic signal equipment, widening the traffic islands, resurfacing both the footpaths and road across the junction and parts of the Hull Road approach.

Works will start on Monday 7 September and are estimated to take around ten weeks to complete. The hours of working will be 9.30am – 4.30pm, Monday to Friday and 8am to 4pm Saturdays and Sundays.

In order for the work to be carried out safely, there will be some restrictions, including:

  • Reducing the speed limit from 40mph to 30mph in works areas
  • Closing the outbound to inbound U-turn on Hull Road, a signed diversion will be in place
  • Suspending the inbound bus lane from the Hull Road junction with the Grimston Bar Park & Ride to the Hull Road junction with Osbaldwick link road.

Whilst the works are ongoing the junction will be operating under temporary traffic signals. Motorists are advised to expect delays during this period. We will be managing the network to reduce delays as much as possible.

The new technology being installed will help to manage traffic in the area and enable the new systems to link direct to the council’s Traffic and Control Centre, so that Network Monitoring Officers can manage the flow of traffic better in busy periods.

Coronavirus York updates; 14th August 2020

Deaths and test results

There have been 3 additional positive test results in the City. That brings the cumulative total to 938.

There have been no additional hospital deaths

The Council has updated its commentary on how the pandemic is progressing. It is reproduced below

DIAGNOSED CASES (Pillar 1 and 2 combined)

• As at 13.8.20 York has had 935 cases, a rate of 443.9 per 100,000 of population. The England rate is 481.4. The Yorkshire & Humber rate is 610.3. The most recent case in York had a test specimen date of 10.8.20 (1 case).

• 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 (11.8.20) is Amber. The rating was triggered by a higher than ‘expected’ number of cases per 100 tests once in the last 14 days (2 cases with a specimen date of 9.8.20). 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 report 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 7.8.20 and covering the week up to 4.8.20, showed that the 7 day rate of new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 population tested under Pillar 1 and 2 was 1.43 for York. York was ranked 12th out of 150 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 2.9. This is for the 7 day period up to 7.8.20. This excludes cases with a sample date in the last few days due to partial data and lags in reporting. The national average is 9.9 and the regional average is 16.3

• As at 11.8.20, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 only) was 0.55% (8 positives out of 1,449 tests). The positivity rate in York is lower than national (1.3%) and regional (2.0%) averages.

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 31st July 2020 and registered up to 8st August 2020, 171 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (83 in hospital, 75 in care homes, 9 at home, 3 in a hospice and 1 in an ‘other communal establishment’). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 81.19 which is lower than the national average of 87.38

• ‘Excess’ deaths (ONS). In week 31 (25 July to 31 July), 27 deaths occurred in York, which is 3 fewer than the average weekly number for 2014-18. The number of deaths has now been lower than the 2014-18 average for 7 out of the last 10 weeks.

• Local Registrar data: In the weekly data received on 10.8.20 (for deaths occurring up to 5.8.20), 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 29.6%). 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 12.8.20, 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.

More businesses reopen tomorrow

  • Indoor theatre, music and performance venues will be able to reopen with socially distanced audiences.
  • The piloting of spectators at sporting events will resume, with a limited number of fans expected to be allowed to watch the World Snooker Championship at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre over the weekend.
  • Casinos, bowling alleys, skating rinks and soft play centres will be allowed to reopen.
  • “Close contact” beauty services such as facials, eyebrow threading and eyelash treatments will resume.
  • Wedding receptions for up to 30 guests will be permitted.
  • Pilots will take place at conference venues ahead of the expected resumption of business events from October 1 at the earliest.

Hairdressers will have to wear a face mask AND a clear visor New guidance will also mean that staff offering “close contact” services, including hairdressers, will now have to wear a face mask as well as a clear visor. The move, which follows new evidence from the scientific advisory group for emergencies (Sage) is aimed at protecting customers and staff from respiratory droplets caused by sneezing, coughing, or speaking.

Music event cancelled

Acomb Sports and Social Club

An outdoor music event due to be held at the Acomb Cricket Club Ground on The Green on Sunday has been cancelled. Nearly 500 tickets for the event had been sold but Council officials have now stepped in to halt the socially distanced event.

Stay safe and shop local

As more businesses are able to open from tomorrow, Saturday 15 August, the council is thanking residents for supporting local businesses and reminding people to stay safe and follow health guidance.

From tomorrow, bowling alleys, casinos and soft play centres will be allowed to open their doors, face coverings will be mandatory at all these locations unless you are exempt . Alongside this more beauty treatments, small wedding receptions and live indoor performances will be able to take place.

Executive Member for Economy and Strategic planning, Cllr Andrew Waller, said: “The response to our ‘Let’s be York’ campaign has been great with people once again enjoying the city, but in a safe, considerate and responsible way. It has been great to hear how people are continuing to shop local and support York’s wide range of independent businesses that help to animate the city.

I’d urge people to follow the recently updated guidance for wearing face coverings, where possible.  I would like to thank staff in the many shops and traders for the efforts that they are undertaking to work with the new requirements and advice, to help to keep us all safe and keep the city open for business.”

Johnny Hayes Chairman of Indie York, said: “York’s Independent businesses are really pleased that numbers visiting their businesses have been increasing day by day since lockdown was lifted. Things are still far from normal but without doubt the support of local residents is crucial to small local businesses. Shopping local and supporting Independents is I know very much appreciated by local business owners. So thank you and please keep on supporting our local independents. “

For the latest Government update on the easing of restrictions visit www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do

The latest government advice on where, when and how you should wear a face covering, along with an exemption card template is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own

Coronavirus York updates; 11th August 2020

Deaths and test results

The latest government figures confirm that there have been no more deaths recorded in York care homes this week. The cumulative total remains at 78.

There have been no additional COVID-19 related deaths recorded in the City. The cumulative total remains at 169

The York Councils public heath director has been quoted in the media saying that there are four Coronavirus patients currently in the York hospital. Two of these are in the Intensive Care Unit. The figures have not yet been added to the Open Data web site.

As predicted earlier in the week, the York Council are to undertake their own “track and trace” system. It will be in place before the new school term commences. A meeting yesterday was told that “there have been 97 positive Covid-19 cases registered with the test and trace scheme in York – with 82 of them contacted, leading 176 contacts to be identified. Of those, 113 have been traced“. Again these figures haven’t been added to the Open Data web site

The test and trace system is to “go local” as the Government appears to acknowledge that the national system, described as “world beating”, is not fit for purpose.

It follows intense criticism over the reach of the national centralised service, which was set up an awarded to private companies, and its failure to tap into local knowledge to tackle outbreaks of the coronavirus in England.

Last month, it was revealed the system was failing to reach more than half the contacts named by infected people in areas battling acute outbreaks of the virus.

On Monday this week, DHSC announced the NHS Test and Trace programme will now provide local authorities across England with a dedicated team of contact tracers to ensure that as many people as possible are being reached, in what the department described as a “new way of working” and a “more tailored service”.

This could mean people who have been in contact with confirmed coronavirus cases may get a knock on their door if tracers are unable to reach them over the phone.

 “As the approach becomes more locally targeted the national service will adjust,” DHSC said. “NHS Test and Trace will reduce current extra capacity and reduce the number of non-NHS call handlers.”

They continued: “Data on the virus continues to be actively monitored through PHE and the Joint Biosecurity Centre so that staff numbers can be quickly scaled up, or down, depending on requirements for the national service and as part of winter preparations.”

An effective system of contact tracing is widely viewed as critical in keeping down the transmission rate of the virus by reaching out to those who have come into close contact with an individual who has tested positive, and urging them to self-isolate for 10 days.

However, last week’s figures showed that thousands of people are still not being reached by the test and trace program mme and the head of outsourcing company Serco, which employs over 10,000 of the tracers, admitted up to a fifth of contacts may be untraceable.

The data added that the national call centers were struggling to reach contacts, with only 56 per cent of close contacts handled online or by call centers being reached and told to self-isolate to stop the spread of the virus.

In stark contrast, a local contact tracing system set up in Blackburn with Darwen Council had reached 90 per cent of the people the Government’s national system was failing to contact in an area with one of the worst Covid-19 infection rates.

Council to tackle digital exclusion in Coronavirus response

City of York Council will be hosting a digital inclusion workshop with Citizens Online and Explore Libraries this week, to bring city partners together to share insight and best practice .

Going forward in partnership the aim is to join up activity, share information and resources and encourage collaboration.

Throughout lockdown, the Council have been working in partnership with organisations across the city to promote digital inclusion for residents and tenants who lack connectivity or access to digital devices.

As facilities such as libraries and the council’s West Offices were required to close at the beginning of lockdown, residents who did not have internet access or computers at home were no longer able to access these public facilities. As part of our emergency response to the impact of Coronavirus, the council and partners expanded and initiated a variety of schemes and work to address the growing need for internet access. These schemes included:

  • Eligible residents who lack internet access at home have been supported through lockdown with devices such as smart phones and laptops (plus data) through York’s emergency funding scheme. Households in need of devices were identified in partnership with support workers and charities across the city.
  • Around 50 laptops have been loaned by York Learning to learners wanting to continue their studies during lockdown who didn’t have the equipment to do so. Those already on accredited courses such as apprenticeships, computer skills and functional skills courses in maths and English have been prioritised.
  • Independent Living Centre tenants without online devices have been provided with smartphones and three months of mobile data to keep in touch with friends and family, and to ensure they can order any food and prescriptions they need. Where they have been allocated, the tenants are regularly video calling, ringing and texting friends and family members which, they say, has been a lifeline.  When the time-limited contract expires, tenants can continue to use the phone when they buy and add their own sim cards. This means they and staff can also keep in touch which helps break down isolation.

Throughout lockdown, York’s superfast broadband network has also been further extended to now reach 72% of the city.

Residents and businesses reminded about financial support

City of York Council is reminding residents and businesses that support is available for those who are currently in council tax or business rates arrears due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Over the next week we will be contacting people who are currently in arrears with their council tax or business rates offering support and information

Revenue from council tax and business rates is essential to ensure the council can continue to provide a wide range of services to support residents, our most vulnerable citizen and businesses across the city.

Several support schemes are currently in place, including:

  • Council Tax Support – the amount people get is based on their household income and savings, so are likely to qualify if on welfare benefits or a low income.
  • Council Tax Discretionary Reduction Scheme – provides extra assistance for people who are unable to pay their council tax bill. People can apply for this reduction whether or not they are eligible for, or receive Council Tax Support.
  • Some people can get a discount on their Council Tax bill, to check what discounts are available please visit www.york.gov.uk/counciltax

Controversial change to parking arrangements in York

Small car ResPark discount to be scrapped.

Smart EQ fortwo length x width x height

The Council is set to abolish the short car parking discount introduced almost 20 yeas ago. The discount was introduced in order to encourage residents to use smaller cars.

In turn, this freed up more kerb space for other drivers in areas where space is usually at a premium.

Ford Tourneo Custom L2 measures in mm

If the change is agree, users of cars like the Smart (2.7 mtrs long) will pay the same charge as could be levied on Bentley (5.5 mtrs) or mini bus drivers.

There will be a low emission discount although the Council continues to ignore the problems faced by electric vehicle owners who have limited charging options.

As is now usual with the current Council, there has been no consultation on the proposed changes.

There are some less controversial plans which form part of the “Parking Services digital improvements”. These include the introduction of virtual permits and car park cashless payment systems.

Proposals are to be brought to the Executive Member for Transport Decision Session on Tuesday 11 August.

Other changes proposed include:

  • Virtual permits which can be managed by resident via an online portal, with alternative options for customers without internet access;
  • Cashless trial at Marygate car park alongside introduction of the new pay on exit system;
  • Extension of operating hours at Piccadilly car park (until 8pm)in line with the longer opening hours of the footstreets;
  • Renaming of Piccadilly car park to Coppergate Centre car park to provide a better and unique identity to this key Council asset;
  • Update to Traffic Regulation Order for some permits to better represent customer requirements, such as introducing parking permits solutions for guest houses, AirBnBs and other holiday lets;
  • Update Parking discount criteria to make this consistent with other Council Services;
  • Residents paying for parking permits at the council’s Customer Centre will no longer be able to use cash to support the prevention of COVID-19 contamination. The same will apply for Penalty Charge Notices once a solution has been put in place

Proposed changes, if accepted, will go live at the end of the year

Council urges Government to ‘Back York’ and enable the city to lead recovery in the region

money GIF

With the Council continuing to face significant financial challenges, City of York Council has stepped up its regional and national lobbying efforts.

The lobbying will urge the Government to seize the opportunities that are unique to York and make the city an ‘exemplar’ of driving recovery.

Since the pandemic was declared, the Council has seen demand for services increase, whilst at the same time, income has considerably fallen.  Early indications suggest that the Council is facing a £23 million* shortfall in its budget.  Over recent months, in addition to Government support, the Council has prioritised resources to support the most vulnerable in the city, as well as invested over £2 million to create local emergency funds to support the city’s businesses and residents facing financial hardship.

There are opportunities unique to York that if taken will help kick-start the economic recovery of the region. Recently it was agreed that the Council, with its partners, would develop a 10-year City Plan to enable York and the region to build back better by drawing on the city’s strengths; from utilising the biotech industry in the city, to seizing the once in a lifetime regeneration opportunity in York Central.  It is clear that, with further funding, York can go far in driving the recovery of our city and region.

That is why to truly build back better, City of York Council is urging the Government to make York an exemplar of how to lead ‘recovery’ in the North of England and the funding needed to unlock York’s potential and build on the work already taking place in the city.  With additional funding, City of York Council could:

  • Make £25 million available to further support local businesses in adapting to the crisis;
  • Enhance York’s world-renowned culture, creativity and heritage by making extra funding available to support local museums, libraries, arts and more;
  • Scale up the support on offer to residents facing financial hardship, particularly through the use of the York Financial Assistance Scheme;
  • Provide much needed funding for small charities and voluntary sector organisations who do not have the resources to fundraise themselves;
  • Speed up the delivery of critical regeneration projects and citywide infrastructure schemes, from York Central, to the dualling of York Outer Ring Road.

The campaign will support and link up with the work of other organisations and Councils who are lobbying for further funding for local authorities, including the Local Government Association, the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, IPPR North, the Association of Directors of Children’s Services and more. As part of the campaign, City of York Council will also be producing a submission to the Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review, outlining the financial challenges for the Council, and highlighting the opportunities to invest in the city in partnership with the Government.

*The Council has not updated its budget forecast. Most of the speculative income loss relates to lower Council Tax and Business Rate income, although car parking income is down (and likely to remain so as long as parts of popular car parks remain bollarded off). The Council still intends to borrow increasing amounts of money and has made no announcements regarding any savings strategy.

York Council says sign up for COVID-19 monitoring App.

York residents are being encouraged to download an app to contribute to vital research into the virus and to help the council and the NHS understand more about the virus.

The COVID-19 Symptom Study app asks people to report on their health, help the NHS and the responses are also contributing to vital research on COVID-19.

Results from App are difficult to reconcile with other information sources

Developed by health science company ZOE, nearly four million participants have downloaded the app to date, making it the largest public science project of its kind anywhere in the world.

The information received means researchers will be able to predict who has the virus and so track COVID infections across the UK.

Anyone can sign up, you don’t need to currently have Coronavirus symptoms. The information is also being used to generate new scientific understanding of the very different symptoms the virus causes in different people. People will be asked to provide a regular quick update on how they are feeling.

The research aims to:

  • Better understand symptoms of COVID-19
  • Understand how fast the virus is spreading in your area
  • Identify high risk areas in the country
  • Identify who is most at risk by better understanding symptoms linked to health conditions
  • In the future the hope is they will be able to use this data to help the NHS support sick individuals. This app is not intended to be a diagnostic tool. For official advice about the coronavirus please visit the NHS website

Councillor Carol Runciman, Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care said: “Thank you to the more than 4,000 York residents who have signed up already and are helping inform our Coronavirus response.

“Across the world we are learning more and more about the virus which will help to keep people safe. This research is already providing useful insights and I would encourage York residents to help if they can by downloading this app.

“This adds to existing measures already in place, such test and trace and our robust infection control measures. Our Public Health team are closely monitoring local data to help us understand and respond to the situation in York. Research is also being shared at a local authority level which will help inform responses to coronavirus.  We take privacy issues very seriously and have been assured by the developers that the app meets all security and privacy standards ”

Dr Andrew Lee, Executive Director of Primary Care and Population Health, NHS Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “The ask here is for people to share information with researchers about their health and their social activities since the start of the pandemic and then provide daily reporting. The app is an important way to study the symptoms of COVID-19 and track the spread of this virus, which ultimately will impact on the health of our patients and the wider public.

“The CCG continues to encourage anyone who is displaying coronavirus symptoms to follow the government advice to have a test and stay at home. GP services are open and running safely for patients with any other health concerns.”​​

For more information and to download the app please visit: covid.joinzoe.com  

Answers to frequently asked questions including how they are protecting privacy is available at https://covid.joinzoe.com/faq

Coronavirus York updates; 17th July 2020

Deaths and test results

There have been no further positive test results or hospital deaths in the City according to government figures published today.

Sometimes “late” test results are retrospectively added to the daily totals but the trend may be encouraging.

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Restrictions to be eased further

  • From 25th July indoor gyms, pools and other sports facilities can reopen
  • On 1st August the government will update its advice on going to work, asking employers to make decisions about how and where their staff can work safely
  • From the same date, most remaining leisure settings, including bowling, skating rinks, casinos and all close contact services, such as beauticians, will be allowed to reopen
  • Live indoor theatre and concerts will be able to resume with socially distanced audiences
  • Wedding receptions for up to 30 people will also be allowed from next month
  • From September, schools, nurseries and colleges will be open for all children and young people on a full-time basis, while universities are also working to reopen as fully as possible
  • From October, the government intends to allow audiences to return to stadiums, while conferences and other business events can recommence, subject to the outcome of pilots

Shop local

City of York Council is encouraging people to shop local and stay safe this weekend.

Whilst face coverings are mandatory in shops from 24 July, city leaders are coming together to urge residents and businesses to consider the use of face coverings within the safety guidelines.

There is growing evidence that face coverings can stop the spread of Coronavirus. Face coverings, alongside regular hand washing, social distancing and staying home and getting tested, if you have symptoms, remain the best defence we have against the virus.

If you have a medical condition that means you are unable to wear a face covering, you do not need a letter from your healthcare professional to prove this.  In this situation, you will still be able to enter shops and you will not be fined for not wearing one.

Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council said: “Our local business community have worked hard to reopen safely, and to support them, the council has been issuing guidance packs to businesses and licensing premises to support them through this difficult period”.

“If every resident spent £5 with a local business, we would add £1m into York’s economy, and that is why we are encouraging residents to shop local and stay safe this weekend.

“Supporting York’s local businesses and independents puts your money straight back into our local economy and helps support the businesses who make York such a unique city. So, let’s continue to shop local and stay safe.”

Andrew Lowson, Executive Director at York BID, said: “We have seen other countries successfully introduce the use of face coverings without it impacting on people’s ability to enjoy shopping and socialising within the safety guidelines. We hope residents will continue to support their local businesses as they continue on the road to recovery.”

Marc Bichtemann, Managing Director of First York, said: “We have been increasing our services over recent weeks to help more people to travel as retail and leisure opens in York, including more frequency on the park and ride network, so we are able to carry customers safely to their favourite shopping destinations.

“Wearing a face covering on the bus is already the law unless someone is exempt and we encourage everyone, especially customers who may be using the bus first the first time, to bring one with them and help fellow passengers and our drivers to keep safe.”

Information on face coverings, including how to make them and also information on those exempt from wearing a face covering for medical reasons are available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own