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Coronavirus York updates; 6th Dec 2020

Deaths and test results

No additional hospital deaths announced in York today

SIXTEEN (16) additional positive test results announced today. Cumulative total is now 5753

The infection rate has now levelled off at 65 cases per 100k population.

The apparent bottoming out of the reduction preceded our exiting Lockdown. Case figures for the next few days may be viewed with some anxiety.

There appears to be no obvious reason for the change to the reduction trend. It may just be a blip.

However, both Haxby and Huntington have shown recent increases in case numbers.

Latest commentary on pandemic from York Council

People with Covid Symptoms

• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 30.11.20 there had been 157 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 3.12.20, the Covid Symptom App estimates 459.9 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 4,745 people). The peak rate was 1,116.3 on 31.10.20.

Diagnosed cases (Pillar 1&2 combined)

• As at 3.12.20 York has had 5,695 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 2,703.9 per 100,000 of population. The rate in York is above the national average (2,556.1) but below the regional average (3,946).

• 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 (30.11.20) is Green.

• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 25.11.20 to 1.12.20 in York is 57.45 (using data published on Gov.uk on 3.12.20).

• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 22.11.20 to 28.11.20 was 76.9. The national and regional averages at this date were 155.4 and 191.5 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 3.12.20).

• The rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 22.11.20 to 28.11.20 for people aged 60+ in York was 62.5. The national and regional averages were 117 and 157.9 respectively.

• As at 29.11.20, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 only) was 3.87%. The national and regional averages are 7 % and 8.2% respectively.

• As at 3.12.20 York University reported 36 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test. The peak number was 331 on the 19.10.20.

• As at 30.11.20 York St. John reported 7 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test. The peak number was 82 on the 8.10.20.

Contact Tracing

• Since 28.5.20 a total of 4,534 laboratory confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 4,009 of the cases have been completed (88.4%). 12,920 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 7,740 of these have been completed (59.9%). Source: PHE Report.

• Local Tracing of Cases: Between 22.10.20 and 27.11.20, 321 ‘actionable’ positive COVID-19 CYC cases have been referred to the local contact tracing service. 321 of the referrals (100%) have been actioned. Of the referrals actioned, 240 (74.8%) were successful and 81 (25.2%) were unable to be reached via phone or home visit, but guidance leaflets were posted where possible. (Local activity has been included in the National Test and Trace statistics since 22.10.20).

Cases in Residential Settings / Schools

• As at 3.12.20 there were 3 care homes in the CYC area with confirmed Covid-19 infection (at least 1 case of either a staff member or resident).

• The latest ‘outbreak’ (2+ cases) in a residential care setting in York was reported on 2.12.20 (1 home).

• In the 7 days up to 29.11.20 there were 8 children of primary and secondary school age who tested positive (across 6 different schools).

COVID Bed Occupancy in York Hospital

• As at 2.12.20 there were 32 confirmed Covid-19 patients in General and Acute beds. The previous figure on 1.12.20 was 30.

• As at 2.12.20 there were 6 confirmed Covid-19 patients and 0 suspected Covid-19 patients in the Intensive Treatment Unit. The previous figures on 1.12.20 were 6 and 0 respectively.

• As at 2.12.20 there had been 0 patients admitted with suspected Covid-19 and 1 with confirmed Covid-19 in the previous 24 hours

Recovery from Covid-19

• Between 13.4.20 and 29.11.20, 250 CYC residents had recovered and been successfully discharged from York hospital after needing NHS care for symptoms linked to covid-19 infection. 14 people were discharged in the most recent week.

R Number

• The ‘R’ value (the number of people that one infected person will pass on a virus to, on average) for the North East and Yorkshire area on 27.11.20 was estimated to be in the range 0.8 to 1.0. The previous estimate was (1.0 to 1.1) on 20.11.20.

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 20th November 2020 and registered up to 28th November 2020, 191 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (94 in hospital, 83 in care homes, 10 at home and 4 in a hospice). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 90.69 which is lower than the national average of 106.87. There have been 19 Covid-19 deaths of CYC residents reported by ONS in the last 7 weeks (Weeks 41 to 47).

• ‘Excess’ deaths – all causes (ONS). In week 47 (7 Nov to 13 Nov), 36 deaths (all causes) occurred for York residents, which is the same as the average weekly number for 2014-18. Between week 2 and week 47 there were a total of 131 ‘excess deaths’ in York compared with the average weekly numbers for 2014-2018. The breakdown over the year so far is: 19 fewer deaths between week 2 and week 14, 209 more deaths between week 15 and week 21 (when covid deaths were at their peak) and 59 fewer deaths between week 22 and week 47.

• Local Registrar data: In the weekly data received on 30.11.20 (for deaths occurring up to 25.11.20), a cumulative total of 183 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 82.5, with an age range of 53-104. The age profile of those dying in York is older than the national average. 91 of the 183 were male (49.7%), less than the national average (55.4%). 77 people (42.1%) died in nursing /care homes; (the national average is 26.9%). In addition 15 people (8.2%) who normally resided in nursing/care homes in the CYC area, died in hospital.

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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. 3rd December 2020

Deaths and test results

TWO further deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust today. Both occurred on Tuesday.

There were SEVENTEEN (17) additional positive test results announced today. That brings the cumulative total to 5695

The number of cases in the City continues to reduce.

The case /100k population figure has now fallen to 76.9.

All neighbourhoods are now below the 200 case rate benchmark. For the first time since September the rate in Heslington has fallen below 100.

Sixteen of the other neighbourhoods are also below that threshold.

It is, however, too early to judge whether coming out of lockdown will have a negative influence on trends.

There were 3209 (P2) tests carried out in York during the 7 days ending on 25th November. Just over 6% produced positive results. The numbers testing positive continue to fall.

Universities

St Johns haven updated their web site, which gives details of current COVID cases. Two are now isolating (down from seven)

York University last updated their web site . “As of the morning of Thursday 3 December, we are aware of 36 individuals within our University community who are currently self-isolating because they have had a positive Covid-19 test”. Also down from yesterday.

Travel between Tiers

Statement from North Yorkshire Police on travel between tiers

Speaking about the introduction of the tier system and travel between tier areas, Superintendent Mike Walker, North Yorkshire Police lead for their Covid response said:

“From today, Wednesday 2 December, we move into the tiered local restrictions and guidance around travel becomes specific to each tier. I would encourage residents to consult the relevant Government guidance for their area and ensure they are aware of what they can and can’t do.

“Those living in tier 3 areas are advised not to travel out of the area unless it is necessary, such as for work or education. I realise there may be some confusion over what is deemed necessary in these circumstances, so I’d like to be clear here; it is neither necessary or acceptable to leave a tier 3 area and enter a lower tier area for a day trip or to visit a pub or restaurant for a meal. Please also be reminded that your tier restrictions travel with you and police can take enforcement action against you,  if you should breach those restrictions.

“To those living in tier 3 areas, please do not try to side-step the tighter restrictions in your area by visiting neighbouring tier 2 areas for a day or night out. If you do, you may inadvertently bring the virus in with you and increase the chance of transmission to local residents.

“North Yorkshire Police will be actively patrolling and will have an increased presence in these border areas and we will be policing the Coronavirus regulations. Our safety camera fleet, which are equipped with ANPR, will also be visible along various routes into the region.

“North Yorkshire is well-known for its hospitality and warmth, but right now we have to ask visitors to stay in their own tier area for the health and safety of our most vulnerable residents. If you have a visit planned, please reschedule to a time where we are able to give you a proper welcome to our beautiful county.”

Coronavirus York updates; 12th November 2020

Deaths and test results

There has been ONE additional death announced today by the York Hospital Trust. It occurred yesterday (11th).

There have been 56 (FIFTY SIX) new positive test results announced today

The number of cases in the City continues to reduce slowly.

There has been a spike in infections in the South Bank and Dringhouses neighbourhood.

Other areas continue to be at or below the national average

3541 P2 tests were carried out in the City last week. Around 11% were positive.

Mass testing

The York Council has issued the following statement from Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health, about the opportunity for mass testing in York.

Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health, said:

We can confirm that City of York Council has not rejected the offer of mass testing and in fact, we are working to develop our proposals for introducing mass testing in the city.

Directors of Public Health have been asked to submit expressions of interest to test 10% of our local population on a weekly rolling basis, which will mean testing approximately 20,000 residents every week in York. 
 
This is something new that we have never done before and so we wanted to take time to plan how this new testing programme can be delivered effectively and in a safe way. Anyone testing positive will need to be referred into our local contact tracing service and so, we also need some time to expand the service in order to accept more referrals.  
 
We are currently taking on board learning from the approach taken in Liverpool and we are working on our ‘expression of interest’ proposals, which will be presented to the Outbreak Management Advisory Board next week for consideration, after which the proposal will be submitted to the Department for Health and Social Care.
 
In the meantime, anyone with symptoms of coronavirus can arrange a free test by visiting https://www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or calling 119″

City of York Council is once again thanking businesses and residents in the city and asking people to continue their efforts to stop the spread of the virus.

Since the 7 day rate of cases per 100,000  of population in York peaked at 309.6 on 20 October, the rate has recently fallen to 176.6 (as at 6 November).  The rate in York is below the national and regional averages and is currently among the lowest in the Yorkshire and Humber Region. 

The percentage of people who test positive after taking a community based (Pillar 2) test in York has fallen to 10.2% (as of 9 November) after a peak of 18% (on 15 October).  The rate in York is currently lower than national and regional averages.

Council leaders are asking everyone to continue to practice Hands. Face. Space and self-isolate if they have symptoms or are told to by Test and Trace to continue to reduce the number of cases.

In recent weeks the council has launched its local contact tracing programme to reach those the national system has been unable to. 

Since then, the number of people being contacted to check they are ok and identify any contacts has increased substantially. 

In the past two weeks, the council has reached well over 80% of contacts passed to them by the national test and trace service and the team are thankful for the support of residents who are contacted for this vital service.

A new animation to explain how the local test and trace system works is now available on youtube and will be added to the council website.

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

This has been a challenging and uncertain period for everyone. One thing we can guarantee is that the people of this city will look after each other and we should be incredibly proud of that community spirit. 

“Whilst it has been encouraging to see numbers falling in recent weeks, we cannot afford to be complacent as we have seen cases rise in other parts of the region and country. 

“Our hope is that by the end of these national restrictions, if we continue our efforts, we can emerge at the lowest level of local restrictions.”

Sharon Stoltz, Director for Public Health said:

The news of potential vaccines being effective is encouraging however, until they are approved and mass vaccination is taking place, we can’t afford to be complacent.

“Recent weeks have seen a fall in the number of cases thanks to the efforts of people in the city. We want to continue to drive the numbers down further in the coming weeks.

“Washing our hands, wearing a face covering in busy public spaces and keeping a 2m distance from those you don’t live with remain as important as ever. As is self-isolating when you have symptoms or are told to by Test and Trace. These methods remain our best way of stopping the spread and keeping the people we love safe.”

Businesses urged to register for grants

City of York Council is urging eligible businesses to register for government grants now the application process has opened today, 12 November.

Business owners can apply for the grants online at www.york.gov.uk/COVID19BusinessGrants

The latest Government grants cover both the brief period York was in Tier 2 restrictions and the current national lockdown. Council officers have been quickly working to set up the process after the government issued detailed guidance on delivering the three new grant schemes, which had been announced over the previous weeks.

The government-prescribed grant allocations, cover:

  • The period of national lockdown;
  • The brief period whilst York was in Tier 2 of local restrictions;
  • The new grant for sectors which have received no previous government support

Businesses will soon be able to apply for the following grants:

Lockdown Local Restriction Scheme   

Business forced to close by law under national lockdown from 5 November will receive:

  • 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.

Tier 2 Local Restriction Scheme

Businesses in the hospitality and leisure sectors, B&Bs and hotels will receive a proportion of the following monthly grants to reflect the 19 days spent in Tier 2:

  • For properties with a rateable value of £15k or under, grants of £934 per month
  • For properties with a rateable value above £15k and below £51k, grants of £1,400 per month
  • For properties with a rateable value of £51k or above, grants of £2,100 per month

Sector support

A new government grant aimed at businesses which have not previously received support, including nightclubs, dance halls, and discotheques was introduced from 1 November 2020. However, this will be superseded from 5 November by the lockdown restriction scheme.

  • For properties with a rateable value of £15k or under, grants of £667 per 14-day period
  • For properties with a rateable value above £15k and below £51k, grants of £1,000 per 14-day period
  • For properties with a rateable value of £51k or above, grants of £1,500 per 14-day period

The council has also been in extensive discussions with representative groups across the city to develop proposals for an additional discretionary fund given to local authorities by the government.

The council held an emergency decision of the executive member for finance and performance today (12 November), outlining how the fund could be used to support businesses which are forced to shut in the current lockdown, but miss out on the government funding, including:

  • Providing equivalent grants to the supply chains of business forced to close
  • Offering direct grants of up to £1334 per month for businesses which have to close but don’t pay rates
  • A voucher scheme to be spent on effective local business support
  • A small fund to support future events or works to bring customers to businesses

More details on the application process for these grants will be available soon.  Register for business updates on the Council website at https://www.york.gov.uk/form/EmailUpdates, and you will be updated when applications go live.

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

Council staff have once again put in a huge effort to get these schemes live exceptionally quickly, and are ready to distribute these latest government grants to businesses.

“In the summer they distributed over £110m of support, resulting in York being one of the fastest paying councils during the first national lockdown. Businesses can rest assured that this is once again our aim. They can help us do this by providing all the relevant information that is required for fraud checks and waiting patiently for grants, contacting us to check on progress will only slow down payments.

“I’d also like to thank all the partners, business leaders and lots of individual businesses which have helped us to develop the discretionary scheme. All the government guidance suggests that the £4.2m discretionary fund will have to cover all business support activity until March 2022. Working together I think we’ve quickly found the fairest and most effective way to support those businesses which are deeply affected by COVID but have missed out on government support.”

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

I’m pleased to see that after months of active lobbying for more urgent and comprehensive support for businesses, that we are now in a position to distribute these grants to businesses who urgently need them.

“This funding will go some way to protecting hundreds of York businesses and jobs, sectors like retail, and some self-employed/micro businesses are set to miss out.  That being said I would urge businesses who have fallen through the cracks and will not benefit from these new announcements, to please contact us as soon as possible at economicgrowth@york.gov.uk and we will continue to raise these ongoing issues with the Government and regional partners.

“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.”

Businesses can apply for 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; 11th November 2020

Deaths and test results

4 (FOUR) more deaths at York Hospital Trust announced today. That is the largest single day announcement of fatalities since the second wave of COVID hit the City. Two fatalities occurred on 8th and two on the 9th November. For source details click here

There were 35 (THIRTY FIVE) additional positive test results announced today. That brings the total to 4228

Overall infection rates are now the lowest they have been for 6 weeks.

Only one neighbourhood (Wigginton) is marginally above the national average.

During the last week, during which time infection rates in the City have reduced, they have increased at the North Yorkshire, Yorkshire and national levels.

York now has one of the lowest infection rates in North Yorkshire. It is also much lower than other urban areas in Yorkshire. Hull now has the highest number of cases.

Centre for City’s view of York economy

The Centre for City’s group have updated their economic modelling work to reflect the latest impact of the lockdown. The figures suggest that York is faring about average when compared to other parts of the country.

Click image to access data

Hospital pressures

More than 450 NHS workers in North Yorkshire are off sick or self-isolating because of coronavirus.

Amanda Bloor, accountable officer for North Yorkshire NHS Clinical Commissioning Group, told a briefing that the staff shortages are having a “significant impact” on hospitals already under pressure from a surge in virus patients.

The absences come as the region’s main hospitals in Harrogate, Scarborough, York and South Tees are treating almost as many coronavirus patients as the first wave after a 33% jump in admissions in the last week.

On Tuesday, 252 patients were receiving emergency treatment, compared with 302 in spring.

Mrs Bloor told a briefing of the North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum: “We are seeing an increase in staff absences – there are 450 staff across the main North Yorkshire hospitals absent either with Covid or in self-isolation.

“Marrying that with the seasonal illnesses and absences that we would normally expect, it is having a significant impact on staffing levels.

“All of our trusts have got surge plans that allow them to respond to normal winter pressures but particularly where we are now with the increase in numbers of patients presenting with Covid symptoms.

“We have mutual aid agreements in place between hospitals so that they can support each and we can take a regional view.

“If the numbers do rise significantly that will mean that hospitals can not protect planned care capacity which they are working really hard to do.”

Harrogate Hospital currently has 28 coronavirus patients – an increase of 13 from last week.

York has 56 patients – after 15 were admitted in the last seven days.

South Tees – which is located in Middlesbrough but serves North Yorkshire residents – has the highest figure of 119 – an increase of 15.

It comes as NHS staff are reportedly to get twice-weekly home coronavirus tests as early as next week.

Professor Stephen Powis told the Health Service Journal that all patient-facing staff will receive asymptomatic testing, with tests to be rolled out across 34 hospital trusts and cover “over 250,000 staff”.

Universities

The media are reporting that students at York and St John Universities will be encouraged to return home in December. Travel dates will be staggered.

It is unclear whether those wishing to travel on public transport will be required to take one of the new “lateral flow” tests which have been used in a Liverpool pilot, with a turnaround time of under an hour and available for people without symptoms.

It is unlikely that the many foreign students currently studying at the University would be able to return home.

It remains unclear whether the Universities will reopen in January or whether “on line” study will become the new norm.

Back to Tier 1 says MP

Local MP Julian Sturdy has said that York should return to Tier 1 status on 3rd December when the current lockdown period is due to end.

There would be some serious issues to be addressed if the City were to encourage people from high infection areas to visit the City. The spike in September and October can be traced to contacts with people newly arrived in the City.

Now, with infection rates already back to those last seen in September, a strategy aimed at encouraging “locals” to use York shops maybe the safest way forward.

York currently has not yet taken up the offer from the government of “mass testing”.

Coronavirus York updates; 10th November 2020

Deaths and test results

One additional care home death has been registered (3/11)

The total York death toll (occurrences) is now 178.

No additional York Hospital Trust deaths have been announced today

35 (THIRTY FIVE) new cases were announced today bringing the total to 4228. Todays figure is the lowest since September. The 7 day rate figure at 179.48 is the lowest since the beginning of October and is further evidence that the epidemic is slowly declining in the City.

Some neighbourhoods are still showing a small increase in case numbers

Overall the City remains below the county, regional and national infection rate averages.

Council Q & A on COVID response including health and Education

Join the next live #AskTheLeaders Live Coronavirus Q&A on the council’s Facebook page this Wednesday 11 November at 5.30-6.30pm.

The panel will be discussing your questions and comments about emotional health, wellbeing, what we can do to support each other, education and the city’s response to Coronavirus.

Residents are invited to watch live on Facebook to hear from panellists including:

  • Cllr Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council
  • Cllr Carol Runciman, Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care
  • Sharon Stoltz, Director for Public Health
  • Maxine Squire, Assistant Director for Education and Skills
  • Naomi Lonergan, Director of Operations for North Yorkshire and York, Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV)
  • Katherine Davies, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV).

Residents can interact with the session by either submitting questions in advance by emailing them to YourQuestions@york.gov.uk or commenting on the live video on Facebook where leaders will read out questions and respond. Questions may be answered by theme rather than individually, so that the conversation covers as many topics as possible.

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

2020 has been an exceptionally tough year for us all, which is why it is important that we all come together to help each other through these difficult times. We have a panel for this live Q&A session that will help give us information on how to look after our own and others health and wellbeing.

“We will also be answering your questions on the latest information on our response, with schools and the public health measures that have been put into place across the city.”

Cllr Carol Runciman, Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said:

As we once again find ourselves in a national lockdown it is vital that we look out for one another during this extremely difficult time. There are some simple steps that we can all take to help each other, a phone call or a text can make a huge difference to someone’s day.

“It’s important to remember that it’s okay to not be okay during this time and that there is help and support ready and waiting whether your problem is big or small. Residents can comment live on Facebook or submit their questions beforehand to YourQuestions@york.gov.uk.”

For the latest York updates on service changes, online support and how you can get involved in supporting your community visit www.york.gov.uk/Coronavirus

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

Flooding update

Council has teams on standby to support residents and businesses in a COVID- secure way as river levels set to peak

Minor flooding of riverside paths has occurred over night. (click)

Click for update

City of York Council has front line teams on standby to support residents and businesses as river levels are set to peak on Wednesday 4 November.

The council is working with the Environment Agency and will use the latest advice to identify peak levels and will communicate any potential impacts separately.

Letters are being sent to residents living in homes and properties which might be directly affected by high river levels, which provides advice and support as well as the measures being put in place.

The council is working closely with the York and North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum, which includes police and fire services as well as North Yorkshire County Council, Met Office and Environment Agency.

View the latest river level predictions and warnings here.

Live web cam at Kings Staithe. Click image to update

Defences are being deployed today/tomorrow at Clementhorpe,Tower Street and Peckitt Street. Rowntree Park will also remain closed tomorrow after closing tonight.

Advice and support:

When there’s flooding in York, the council will provide assistance, practical support and information as soon as it’s safe and appropriate to do so – all in a COVID secure way.
Sandbags: If your home/property is at immediate risk of flooding – then you don’t need to contact us. We’ll provide sandbags to communities based on the latest forecasted levels.
Rest Centres: We have teams on standby to help provide and support should you need this. Rest centres have been redesigned to ensure they are managed in a COVID-safe environment.

Social care support:

If you know of someone who may be in need of social care and support contact our Adult Social Care Team, email: adult.socialsupport@york.gov.uk or telephone: 01904 555111 (or textphone: 07534 437804, for sensory impaired callers), between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Emotional support:

The Major Incident Response Team have trained volunteers on hand to provide emotional support to those affected by incidents such as flooding. The team are here to help and you can contact them on mirt@york.gov.uk

The Environment Agency river forecasters will continue to monitor the situation 24/7 and provide further updates. Please keep an eye out for the latest information and alerts from the Environment Agency for updates on river levels in the city.

Drivers, pedestrians and cyclists should not enter or travel through flood water which has risks from hidden obstacles and health hazards.

Keep up to date with the latest flood warnings and situation in your area at https://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/target-area/122FWF755

Follow the council’s website for further updates at: www.york.gov.uk/floodadvice

To report debris/fallen trees please visit www.york.gov.uk/reportproblems

You can also follow @EnvAgencyYNE and #floodaware on Twitter for the latest updates. Or call Floodline on 0345  9881188

Keep up to date with the weather forecast and weather warnings at www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to BBC Radio York 

Follow advice from North Yorkshire Police about driving in wet conditions.

Councillor Paula Widdowson, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Change, at City of York Council said: 

Coronavirus York updates; 3rd November 2020

Deaths and test results

There have been no additional deaths at either the York Hospital Trust or local care homes.

There were 58 (FIFTY EIGHT) additional test results announced today.

Case number trend still downward but may be levelling.

15 out of 24 neighbourhoods now below national average infection rate levels.

What can stay open from Thursday

The Government has published a list of what can stay open from Thursday in England.

  • Schools, universities, colleges
  • Child care facilities
  • Courts
  • Food retailers, including food markets, supermarkets, convenience stores and corner shops.
  • Takeaways
  • Off licenses and licensed shops selling alcohol (including breweries).
  • Pharmacies (including non-dispensing pharmacies) and chemists.
  • Newsagents.
  • Hardware stores.
  • Building merchants, and building services.
  • Petrol stations.
  • Car repair and MOT services.
  • Bicycle shops.
  • Taxi or vehicle hire businesses.
  • Banks;
  • Building societies;
  • Credit unions;
  • Short term loan providers;
  • Savings clubs;
  • Cash points;
  • Currency exchange offices
  • Post offices.
  • Funeral directors.
  • Laundrettes and dry cleaners.
  • Dental services, opticians, audiology services, chiropody, chiropractors, osteopaths and other medical or health services, including services relating to mental health.
  • Veterinary surgeons and pet shops.
  • Agricultural supplies shop.
  • Storage and distribution facilities, including delivery drop off or collection points, where the facilities are in the premises of a business which is allowed to stay open to customers.
  • Car parks.
  • Public toilets.
  • Garden centres.
  • Recycling centre

It will be up to individual businesses to decide whether to remain open.

Live Q&A to discuss resident’s questions about the public health response

The next York Council live Coronavirus Q&A on the council’s Facebook page takes place today (Tuesday 3 November) at 5-6pm.

The panel will be discussing your questions and comments about the city’s response to Coronavirus.

This next question and answer session will discuss your questions, with a special focus on the latest national restrictions and the support that is on offer for businesses across the city.

Residents are invited to watch live on Facebook to hear from:
•    Cllr Darryl Smalley, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure & Communities 
•    Cllr Andrew Waller, Executive Member for Economy and Strategic Planning
•    Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health, City of York Council
•    York COVID data, Testing, Outbreak Management
•    Neil Ferris, Corporate Director Economy and Place
•    Carolyn Frank, Development Manager, North Yorkshire Federation of Small Businesses

How can I get involved?
Residents can interact with the session by either submitting questions in advance by emailing them to YourQuestions@york.gov.uk or commenting on the live video on Facebook where leaders will read out questions and respond.* Questions may be answered by theme rather than individually, so that the conversation covers as many topics as possible.

For the latest York updates on service changes, online support and how you can get involved in supporting your community visit www.york.gov.uk/Coronavirus 

*Please note: Resident do not need a Facebook account to watch the live video however, they will need their own Facebook account to comment on the video with their questions (alternatively questions can be emailed to YourQuestions@york.gov.uk).

Wrong time, wrong priority

Can a Group of Policy Experts Prevent an Election Catastrophe in 2020? – Mother Jones

We have made no secret on our distaste for the “mayoral” style of local government systems. They put enormous amounts of power in the hands of one person. That looked wrong even in at best of times.

Now the governments apparent determination to move ahead quickly with another reorganisation of Local Government in York and North Yorkshire, in the middle of a pandemic, looks to be at the extreme end of irresponsible.

Local government Leaders should be able to devote all of their energises and resources to addressing the health crisis.

Some already look exhausted by the pressures of the crisis.

Reorganisation is an unnecessary distraction which the government should shelve at least until the pandemic, and the outfall from BREXIT, are behind us.

Against that background the York Council and North Yorkshire County Council have prepared a policy proposal which would see the City’s boundaries left as they are. York would still have a – ceremonial – Lord Mayor and local electors would get what they voted for (rather than what their counterparts in Scarborough thought that they should have).

The Council have issued the following statement prior to an Executive discussion next week. The Executive paper is published here: https://democracy.york.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?MId=12298&x=1

“Council confirms there is no functional, historical or logical reason for merging York

Devolution for York and North Yorkshire and Unitarisation for North Yorkshire

structures and so, unlock the devolution process, City of York Council today (16 October) proposed there is no functional, historical or logical reason to merge York with surrounding rural and coastal areas.

In a report to the Executive, it is proposed that York’s footprint should remain the same, to retain local decision making in York, focus on recovery efforts, avoid significant disruption and cost, and continue to deliver value for money services to residents, businesses and communities. 

If agreed, Executive will refer to Full Council on 29 October to decide whether to provide a submission to government that demonstrates York should remain on the existing footprint by providing evidence that there is no functional, historical or logical reason to merge York with other local authorities.

To reduce the 2-tier county and district structures in North Yorkshire, there are only two options being put forward.  The first, the council’s preferred option, would mean York remains on its existing footprint and North Yorkshire creates a new single council, serving the whole of North Yorkshire and based on its recognised geography and identity. This would bring together the eight councils currently providing public services there. The second, proposed by the district authorities, is an east/west split that would see York merge with Ryedale, Scarborough and Selby, covering a geography that would stretch 65 miles north/south, and 45 miles east/west.

To achieve greater efficiencies between City of York Council and North Yorkshire County Council, a Strategic Partnership agreement has been created, which describes how seizing opportunities to share resources or lead different aspects of service delivery, whilst respecting the differences between the two places, will better support the region.

There are several benefits of York remaining as a unitary on its existing footprint:

  • The speed at which devolution maybe achieved
  • The continuity of services at a time critical for Covid recovery
  • The continued identify of the City

However, should any change be made to City of York’s existing footprint, there will be a series of detrimental impacts, including

  • an anticipated £117 increase for Band D taxpayers in York (representing an 8% increase).
  • disruption to services across York and the districts during this crucial recovery period
  • end of the 800 year connection between the city and the council, impacting on the very identity of the city.

Over the past few months, consultation has taken place with local residents, businesses and communities regarding devolution and unitarisation, which has been used to feed into the analysis of proposals included in the report.  As part of Our Big Conversation, residents have been sending their views on the topic, with 65% of residents believing council services won’t be improved by covering a larger area.  As part of the consultation, the Council has also held two devolution focused Facebook Live Q&A’s, and has set up numerous briefing sessions with local businesses, charitable and voluntary groups, and local civic organisations.

The council has not been consulted on the east/west proposal and therefore does not know the detail.  As a result it is not possible to accurately assess the impact. 

York has a strong case for remaining the same:

  • t is a median-sized unitary authority with the 7th lowest level of council tax of any unitary.
  • It’s geography (compact urban and sub-urban) is distinctly different to it’s surrounding area (rural and coastal)
  • It has maintained financial stability since it was formed in 1996.
  • It supports a successful, sustainable city, recognised as one of the best places to live in the UK, with world renowned universities and an education system amongst the best in the country.
York responds to the criteria set by central government

To support Executive make an informed decision, the council has summarised evidence for its case to continue on its existing footprint against the criteria provided by government”.