Coronavirus York updates; 2nd April 2021

Deaths

One death was announced by the York Hospital Trust today. It occurred on Wednesday and was the first Coronavirus related fatality since 17th March

Test Results

Four positive test results have been announced today. They bring the cumulative total up to 12,205

The number of cases in the City has fallen from 64 yesterday to 61 today

The rate /100k population has fallen to 28.96 today. It is likely to fall below 25.0 tomorrow and should remain there for the following few days at least.

There has been a fall in case numbers in North Yorkshire today and the small but steady decline at regional level is being sustained.

Neighbourhoods

Most neighbourhoods continue to have fewer than 3 cases.

Vaccinations

The vaccination programme is continuing over Easter. The Askham Bar site was busy earlier today

Tests

4406 PCR tests were carried out during the week ending 28th March.

Of these, 1.7% were found to be positive. That is the same proportion as the previous day

2297 “lateral flow” tests were also conducted on 1st April

Council pandemic commentary

The Council has updated is commentary which can be found on open data. It is reproduced below for convenience

The data is accurate as at 8.00 a.m. on Thursday 01.04.21. Some narrative for the data covering the latest period is provided here below:

People with Covid Symptoms

• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 28.3.21 there had been 58 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 31.3.21, the Covid Symptom App estimates 41.3 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 4,302 people). The peak rate was 1,283 on 7.1.21.

Diagnosed cases

• As at 31.3.21 York has had 12,198 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 5,792 per 100,000 of population. The cumulative rate in York is below the national (6,752) and regional (6,931) 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 number of new cases is worsening. The latest rating for York (28.3.21) is Red. This is due to a higher than expected number of cases on two occasions: specimen date 22.3.21 (13 cases) and specimen date 25.3.21 (15 cases). 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 provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 23.3.21 to 29.3.21 in York is 23.3 (using data published on Gov.uk on 31.3.21).

• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 20.3.21 to 26.3.21 was 29.9 The national and regional averages at this date were 54.9 and 112.4 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 31.3.21).

• York is currently ranked 29th out of 149 Upper Tier Local Authorities (UTLAs) in England with a rank of 1 indicating the lowest 7 day rate.

• For the 7 day period 19.3.21.to 25.3.21, 1 ward (Strensall) has seen a statistically significant fall in rates compared with the 7 day period 13.3.21 to 18.3.21. 1 ward (Westfield) has seen a significant rise in the rate. The remaining wards have shown no significant change. Ward rates currently vary from 0 to 78.1 per 100,000. 5 wards had zero cases in the latest period.

• The rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 20.3.21 to 26.3.21 for people aged 60+ in York was 24.2. The national and regional averages were 7.9 and 34.8 respectively.

• As at 29.3.21, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 PCR tests only) was 0.71%. The national and regional averages are 2.3% and 4.7% respectively.

• As at 29.3.21 the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 Lateral Flow Tests only) was 0.12%. The national and regional averages are 0.2% and 0.3% respectively.

• As at 29.3.21 the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 1 tests only) was 2.1%. The national average is 0.9%.

• As at 31.3.21 York University reported 2 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 29.3.21 York St. John reported 3 individuals within the University community who was 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 11,321 confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 10,220 of the cases have been completed (90.3%). 26,358 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 19,974 of these have been completed (75.8%). Source: PHE Report.

• Local Tracing of Cases: Between 22.10.20 and 26.3.21, 1,062 referrals had been actioned by the local contact tracing service. Of the referrals actioned, 708 (66.7%) were successful and 354 (33.3%) were unable to be reached via phone or home visit, but guidance leaflets were posted where possible.

Cases in Residential Care Settings

• As at 31.3.21 there were 0 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 were reported by PHE on 25.2.21 (1 home).

Cases amongst School Aged Children

• In the 7 days up to 29.3.21 there were 6 children of primary and secondary school age who tested positive across 6 schools.

COVID Bed Occupancy in York Hospital

• As at 30.3.21 there were 10 confirmed Covid-19 patients in General and Acute beds. The peak number was 157 on 19.1.21.

• As at 30.3.21 there were 3 confirmed Covid-19 patients and 0 suspected Covid-19 patient in the Intensive Treatment Unit. The peak number for people in ITU was 19 on 10.5.20.

• As at 30.3.21 there had been 0 patients admitted with suspected Covid-19 and 0 with confirmed Covid-19 in the previous 24 hours.

• As at 30.3.21 there had been 3 confirmed patients discharged with COVID-19 in last 24 hours.

• Between 22.3.21 and 28.3.21, 12 CYC residents were discharged from York hospital after needing NHS care for symptoms linked to covid-19 infection.

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 26.3.21 was estimated to be in the range 0.8 to 1.0. The previous estimate was (0.7 to 0.9) on 19.3.21.

Total Vaccinations

• As at 30.3.21 a total of 92,113 CYC residents have had the first dose of the vaccine. This represents 43.7% of the estimated total population of York and 52.9% of the estimated adult (18+) population of York.

• As at 30.3.21 a total of 9,857 CYC residents have had both doses of the vaccine. This represents 4.7% of the estimated total population of York and 5.7% of the estimated adult (18+) population of York.

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 enables a breakdown by age and gender. The most recently available data is summarised below:

• ONS weekly data: In the most recent period (Week 11: 13.3.21 to 19.3.21) 2 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents. In weeks 8, 9 and 10 there had been 6, 6 and 3 deaths respectively.

• ONS Cumulative data: Since the start of the pandemic, for deaths occurring up to 19th March 2021 and registered up to 27th March 2021, 386 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (226 in hospital, 131 in care homes, 21 at home and 8 in a hospice). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 183.3 which is lower than the national average of 227.7

• Local Registrar data (Cumulative): Since the start of the pandemic (using data for deaths occurring up to 17.3.21), a cumulative total of 369 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 82.3, with an age range of 44-104. The age profile of those dying in York is older than the national average (79.9% of those who died in York were aged 75+ compared with 73.2% nationally). 178 of the 369 were male (48.2%), less than the national average (54.3%).

Coronavirus York updates; 1st April 2021

Deaths

No further COVID-19 deaths at the York hospital were announced today

Test results

Three additional positive test results were announced today. They bring the cumulative case total to 12,201

The number of cases has increased from 63 to 64 today.

The infection rate per 100k population figure has edged up to 30.39 today. However it is now on course to fall below the 25.0 benchmark over the weekend.

Infection rates at all levels across the country have remained fairly stable today

Neighbourhoods

Little change today at neighbourhood level with most areas now having fewer than 3 cases.

We may next week – if the expected decline in case numbers continues – have to introduce exception reporting (listing only those neighbourhoods with over 3 cases). The government stats feed doesn’t list the case numbers by neighbourhood where they are below 3.

Vaccinations

Updated vaccination figures by neighbourhood have been published, They cover the period up to 28th March

+NB. Populations vary in different neighbourhoods

As at 30th March 52,9% (92,113) of the City’s adult population had received their first vaccination and a further 5.70% (9,857) had been given their second jab

Tests

4429 PCR tests were conducted during the week ending 27th March 2021.

Of these, 1.7% were positive. That is slightly more than the 1.6% found the previous day.

In addition, 2866 “lateral flow” tests were conducted on 31st March 2021

York Hospital Trust COVID-19 patient numbers

Lockdown eases with mixed results

Good weather over the last couple of days, coupled with an easing of lockdown restrictions, has encouraged people to get out and about.

The golf courses have been busy while beauty spots have also attracted crowds.

However, it has been a mixed picture with anti social behaviour an issue in some parts of the City, litter has accumulated on some parks and fly tipping remains a problem.

The authorities will need to be proactive in managing the next stage of the lockdown exit which is scheduled to take place from 12th April. Any spike in visitor numbers to York could be difficult to control and might prompt an increase in COVID-19 case numbers

Police Covid response:

Plea to be extremely careful this Easter – “We have come too far and made too many sacrifices for this effort to be wasted now”

Chief Inspector Charlotte Bloxham is the silver commander for North Yorkshire Police’s response to the pandemic. These are her comments about the past week’s (22-28 March 2021) Covid-19 related issues, including details around Step 1 of the Government’s Road Map Out Of Lockdown…

From Monday 29 March, as part of the new health protection regulations known as the Steps Regulations, there is no longer any restriction on leaving home without a reasonable excuse. The “stay at home” rule has come to an end.

This means the police’s role in helping to tackle the public health crisis has become much more focused on the revised restrictions around indoor and outdoor gatherings.

For indoor gatherings, the regulations remain the same with only members of the same household allowed to be together, subject to some exceptions including support bubbles and providing care.

Our overriding message is that households still must not mix – there remains a high-risk of infection and we must do all we can to avoid community transmission of the virus.

Outdoor gatherings are governed by “the rule of six” or two households, and these can take place in public spaces and in private gardens with social distancing rules remaining in place.

There are a number of exceptions that we have to take into consideration, including the fact that two households may comfortably exceed six people, and that linked-households – for the purposes of providing care and support – only count as one household.

Clearly, the continued “4 Es” approach of the police – to engage with the public, explain the regulations, encourage compliance, and enforce as a last resort – is vital to help our officers and PCSOs determine whether or not there has been a breach of the regulations.

At this stage, restrictions on businesses remain the same. It is expected that these will begin to be relaxed from 12 April, subject to the Government’s conditions being met including the continued reduction in infections and the successful roll-out of the vaccination programme. North Yorkshire Police will continue to support our local authority, licensing and trading standards partners to ensure businesses comply with the regulations at each step.

International Travel Restrictions are also in place. This means holidaying abroad is not allowed until at least 17 May when it will be reviewed by the Government. An enhanced fixed penalty notice of £5,000 is linked to this breach.

Travel…

With regards to travelling within the country and county, people must minimize travel to reduce the risk of infection. This will be subject to change as part of the roadmap out of lockdown, but not until 12 April at the earliest.

The Government has not defined a distance that would constitute a breach of the regulations, so it is down to each and every person to make a judgement call about if a journey is absolutely necessary and the risks it poses in the context of the public health crisis that we are still facing.

From a policing point of view, we will keep using the “4 Es” approach to engage, explain the regulations, encourage compliance and enforce if there is blatant disregard to the regulations.

Easter holidays…

When it is safe to do so, we will welcome visitors to the county again. However, everyone can expect to see an increased policing presence as we work alongside our partners to help keep the virus at bay in the weeks and months ahead.

Our plea to everyone this Easter is to be extremely careful and to keep following the regulations until it is safe to resume a more normal way of living – we have come too far and made too many sacrifices for this effort to be wasted now.

Latest enforcement data

During the past seven days (22-28 March 2021) we have issued 170 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) – the previous week’s total was 149.

This takes the total to1,980 FPNs during the third lockdown, and3,876 FPNs since the first lockdown on March 2020.

  • 82 were issued to local people and 88 were issued to visitors
  • 80 issued for being outside place of living
  • 11 for outdoor gatherings
  • 76 for indoor gatherings
  • 3 for obstruct/contravene/fail to close business
  • 0 for gathering of more than 15

Broken down into districts, the number of FPNs issues are as follows:

Craven – 0

Hambleton – 20

Harrogate – 23

Richmond – 0

Ryedale – 1

Scarborough – 89

Selby – 3

York – 34

*No notable cases have been brought to our attention this week.

Coronavirus York updates; 31st March 2021

Deaths

The ONS have updated their weekly monitor of the number of deaths among York residents from COVID-19.

During the week ending 19th March 2021 two residents lost their lives. Both were hospital patients.

There were no deaths in care homes.

No further deaths have been announced by the York Hospital Trust today.

It is now two weeks since the last hospital fatality in York

Test results

Five additional positive test results have been announced today. That brings the total up to 12,198

Citywide case numbers have fallen from 67 to 63 today. There may be a small rise tomorrow before numbers are expected to fall to a 2021 low on Saturday

The infection rate per 100k population figure has fallen to 29.91 today. There now appears to be a real possibility – for the first time in 2 weeks – that a downward trend in infection rates will resume over the Easter period.

For the first time in over a week, infection rates have fallen today at City, county, regional and national levels.

Neighbourhoods

16 York neighbourhoods now each have fewer than 3 cases

There has been a modest increase in infection numbers in the Holgate and Westfield neighbourhoods

Vaccinations

As at 28 March, 91,467 people in York had received their first dose of the vaccine, an estimated 52.6% of the adult population.

9,222 people have received both doses of the vaccine, accounting for an estimated 5.3% of the adult population.

For the first time yesterday at a national level, more people received their second dose than received their first dose of vaccine.

Tests

4,399 people in York had PCR tests during the week ending 26th March 2021

Of these, 1.6% were positive. That is an improvement on yesterdays figure of 1.8%

858 “lateral flow” tests were also carried out on 30th March 2021

Hospitals

There has been a further drop in the number of patients being treated for COVID-19 by the York Hospital Trust

What to do over Easter

This is what the Council is recommending for the Easter holidays. The weather is expected to become cooler and most lockdown RESTRICTIONS ARE STILL IN PLACE

Find more ideas for things to do at home/virtually on the Shine website – https://www.yor-ok.org.uk/young-people/shine-new.htm

Council updates businesses on the restart grant payments

Restart Grants will start being paid to York businesses from w/c 12th April after the government confirmed it would transfer money to local authorities after the Easter weekend.

The council continues to prioritise paying government grants into the bank accounts of qualifying businesses as quickly as possible.

April sees the next phase of grant payments with restart grants being paid to non-essential retail, hospitality, accommodation and leisure businesses that are liable for business rates. Businesses that have already qualified for payments from other grant programmes do not need to reapply, and will automatically be paid if they are eligible.

New businesses that started trading between 5 January and 1 April may qualify for restart grants. They can apply through the claim form on the council website, which will be available from Monday 12 April.

Eligible business who have not yet applied for Additional Restriction Grant (ARG) funding must do so before 31 March 2021. See details of available business grants and check if you’re eligible online. After this date businesses will not be able to apply for the ARG grant, but those who have already qualified will continue to receive payments from April onwards in line with roadmap periods.

All qualifying businesses liable for business rates will continue to benefit from business rates relief as previously announced in the March Budget.

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

Throughout the pandemic we have prioritised keeping businesses as up to date on the process as we can and in getting payments to them as quickly as possible.

“We are now over a year on since the first lockdown and it has been an incredibly challenging year for us all. We continue to be incredibly grateful to the business community for their understanding and support and to our council staff who are working tirelessly to get each payment into the bank accounts of businesses as soon as possible. We expect these payments to be made from 12 April but as ever will keep businesses updated.”

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

Many businesses are seeking to re-open as safely as possible, and the council is committed to supporting local businesses through this process.

“The finance team is working hard to ensure that as soon as Government funding is received, payments are made to business’ accounts. We know that the quick payment of these grants is essential for eligible businesses. This is why I have recently written to the Secretary of State to urge for the current system to be streamlined to ensure businesses receive payments as quickly as possible.”

“We continue to update our website with the latest information and eligibility criteria for certain support online.

“Any businesses who have fallen through the cracks of government support please get in touch with us as soon as possible on email: economicgrowth@york.gov.uk.”

Shielding lifts after 1 April as infection rates fall

Clinically extremely vulnerable people in York are being reassured that help is still to hand as, from Thursday 1 April shielding will stop, as virus infection rates continue to fall.

Affected residents will be getting updated guidance from the Government asking them to take extra precautions to reduce their risk of infection from Covid-19. These set out practical steps to reduce the risk of catching the virus, including continuing to maintain strict social distancing and to keep overall social contacts at low levels, such as working from home where possible.

The move follows the first dose vaccination of more than 9 in 10 clinically extremely vulnerable people as well as a steady decrease in the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalisations for the last few weeks. People aged 16 or older who have been advised they are clinically extremely vulnerable and who haven’t had their first vaccination should book it via the NHS website. Please take up the second dose of the vaccine when it is offered to further increase your level of protection.

York’s community hubs and the network of food deliverers will continue to offer support. Anyone already registered for priority access to supermarket delivery slots will to be able to access them until 21 June 2021.

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

Shielding helps safeguard those who are the most clinically vulnerable in our communities. We recognise how difficult this period has been for so many and the impact it has had on people’s wellbeing.

“Being able to lift shielding is testament to the efforts of everyone in the city in stopping the spread of the virus. It means people can start thinking about easing up on the more rigid guidelines and begin going out more. To keep York open and the people we love safe, please continue to observe hands, face, space.

“We are still here to help. Our community hubs can support anyone who needs it, whether to talk to someone or to collect essentials. Please call 01904 551550 or email covid19help@york.gov.uk if you need support.”

Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health at City of York Council, said:

Thank you to everyone who has shielded or has helped someone who is shielding: we know how challenging and worrying this period has been for individuals and families.

“Whilst this is another positive step in the road to normal we all still need to be careful. If you have been shielding, please continue to take extra precautions after 1 April to keep yourself as safe as possible.

“No vaccine is 100% effective. Even if you have had both doses, there is still no absolute guarantee that you will not become ill from Covid-19, so please remember hands, face, space.”

Coronavirus York updates; 29th March 2021

Deaths

There have been no further hospital deaths announced today.

Test results

11 additional positive test results have been announced today bringing the cumulative total up to 12,190

The number of cases in the City has increased from 61 yesterday to 62 today. It is likely that we will see a further increase of a around 4 cases tomorrow below the level stabilises.

The infection rate /100k population has increased to 29.44. The infection rate has fairly consistently hovered around 30 for the last 10 days.

Infection rate at regional level continuing to creep up

Neighbourhoods

No major changes at neighbourhood level today, although the rate in Holgate East has now fallen back below the 100 case threshold.

Vaccinations

Tests

4560 PCR tests were carried out during the week ending 24th March 2021

Of these, 1.6% were found to be positive. That represents an increase on the previous days figure of 1.5%. There has been a steady increase in positivity since the 1.2% low seen on 21st March.

In addition, 3599 “lateral flow” test were carried out on 28th March

Hospitals

The number of COVID patients being cared for by the York Hospital Trust in their intensive care units has fallen to 4.

Coronavirus York updates; 28th March 2021

Deaths

No further hospital deaths today. It is 11 days since the last fatality at the York Hospital Trust

Test Results

Only 3 new positive test results today. That is the lowest figure since last summer (Yesterdays “zero” was a result of a reprofile of older results which had been double counted). The cumulative total is now 12,179.

The number of cases in the City has fallen from 68 yesterday to 61 today. That is the lowest number seen in the City since 11th September 2020

The rate /100k population has fallen back to 28.96. It is expected to remain around this figure for the next 3 days.

The case rate is continuing to increase at regional level.

Stable today at North Yorkshire level.

Falling in the City and at national level.

Neighbourhoods

There is now only one neighbourhood with an infection rate which is above the national average (Holgate East – which has seen a reduction by one case today)

Vaccinations

Tests

4678 PCR tests were conducted in the City during the week ending 23rd March 2021

Of these 1.5% were positive. That is the same rate as the previous day.

864 “lateral flow” tests were also conducted on 27th March

Coronavirus York updates; 27th March 2021

Deaths

No further hospital deaths today.

Last fatality occurred on 17th March.

Test results

According to the government’s web site the cumulative number of positive test results in the City remains at 12,176 today.

However, the profile of when the positive results were recorded has changed. They are recording a zero increase in cases today. The rejigging of the figures has resulted in 15 positive results being recorded on 25th March. If correct, this would be the highest single day figure recorded in the City since 9th March.

The number of cases in the City has increased from 65 to 68 (7 day moving average) That is the second day in a row that there has been an increase

The rate /100k population has increased to 32.29.

The revisions to the incidence of positive test results has also impacted elsewhere. There has been a big reduction in case numbers in North Yorkshire.

Case numbers at reginal level continue to increase.

The national rate is stable

Neighbourhoods

The increase in case number sin Holgate East has continued. There are now 11 cases there. That is up from 1 in less than a week.

Elsewhere infection numbers are fairly stable.

Vaccinations

Tests

4599 PCR tests were carried out in York duirng the week ending 22nd March 2021

1.5% of the tests were positive. That represents and increase over the previous days figure of 1.3%

1668 “lateral flow” tests were also conducted on 26th March

Hospitals

Latest capacity figures from York Hospital Trust

Council plans for reopening the “High Street”

original allocations

The Council has revealed more of its plans to fund the reopening of the City centre to visitors. An initial programme had been discussed earlier in the month (click)

At a behind closed doors meeting, officials have now allocated funds to the following projects

  • The allocation of £45k to the BID to deliver College Green and general outdoor seating across the city centre
  • The allocation of £60k to Make It York to deliver Parliament Street seating area and £4.5k for the associated toilets
  •  The allocation of a single budget of up to £20k to allow Make It York and the BID to operate shared security and waste collections across all city centre wide projects
The College Green outdoor activity area is set to return

The plans singularly fail to address the issues faced by suburban shopping areas. Not for the first time, the Front Street area has been snubbed.

What’s on at Easter

Guide to some leisure options available this Easter holiday click

Grant support provided to more than 3,500 businesses

During the last quarter more than 3,500 companies received grant support from City of York Council.

As the nation marks one year of unprecedented changes for residents as well as businesses, Executive Member for Economy and Strategic Planning has received an update on the economic support provided during the last quarter.

The focus for the council’s economic team has been quick and efficient payments of any business support grants for affected businesses, helping to protect jobs and secure the future for the diverse collection of independent businesses in the city.

City of York Council continue to provide grant support to more than 3,500 companies, accounting for more than half of the city’s businesses, which is a significantly higher proportion in comparison to other local councils. The Council’s focus has been getting support grants to those who are entitled to receive them quickly and efficiently, as well as focussing discretionary grants on the small and micro businesses that need them most. Funding provided through the 2020 microgrant scheme and the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) has helped over 1,200 businesses to adapt to challenges, and supported the diverse community of microbusiness in York. These businesses have been at the heart of the response in York, with payments received earlier than in other areas. 

The report considered by the Executive member shows how York continues to be the city with the lowest percentage increase in unemployment, with cities including Bradford, Hull and Birmingham having seen unemployment rise at nearly 3 times the rate that York has experienced.*

To further support job retention and creation in the city, the Council has endorsed proposals put forward by the city’s Skills and Employment Board to tackle the immediate impact of the pandemic.

One-year plan: Skills for Employment in York, sets out how the city needs to respond to the changing skills and training needs of the city post-pandemic. The aim is to ensure that residents and businesses have the necessary skills and training support to meet their needs, helping York’s economy to recover, and grow, over the coming years.

Coronavirus York Updates 25th March 2021

Deaths

There have been no further York hospital deaths announced today. The last fatality was on 17th March

Test results

13 additional positive test results have been announced today. It brings the cumulative total up to 12,160

Case numbers have fallen from 64 yesterday to 63 today.

The rate /100k population figure has fallen to 29.91 today. This is the lowest rate seen since 12th September 2020.

However, test results, already in the pipeline, mean that infection rates are expected to rise to at least 32 over the weekend. That is the equivalent of an extra 5 cases.

Little change at county, regional of national level today

Neighbourhoods

All but 3 York neighbourhoods now have infection rates below the national average

Vaccinations

The latest vaccination figures at local local neighbourhood level confirm that York is making very good progress with its programme.

96% of over 60’s have been immunised.

In addition, inroads have been made in the under 50 age group where nearly 18,000 have already received the jab.

Over 8000 vaccinations are being completed, on average, each week

Tests

4570 PCR tests were carried out in York during the week ending 20th March

Of these 1.4% were positive (the same percentage as the previous day)

4809 “lateral flow” test were also carried out on 24th March

Hospitals

The York Hospital Trust is now treating 35 COVID-19 cases. This up from 30 earlier in the week. Six patients are in intensive care. The patients are not necessarily from York. 2,088 Covid patients have been treated and discharged by theTrust since the start of the pandemic

York Minster

York Minster today announced its services and events for Holy Week and Easter, the most important festival in the calendar for Christians around the world.

Details of the programme can be found by clicking here

Cycle Lockers – rent waived

The Council is waiving the rent due on the 136 cycle lockers which are located at park and ride sites around the City. About 50% of the lockers are currently rented but, because of the pandemic, many have been unused this year. Cyclists have either been furloughed or have been working from home. The Council says it won’t charge any rent this year.

Potentially this leaves a shortfall of around £5,300 in the Councils budget. The income is used to maintain the lockers.

The Council has been encouraging the use of the lockers as part of a “park and cycle” initiative. Their fate, in the post COVID, world is unclear.

Lockdown rules due to be eased from Monday (29th March)

The outdoor socialising rules change in the second section of reopening due to be implemented next week.

The government says that the main inhibitor for this going ahead is the capacity of hospitals.

The vaccine deployment programme continues successfully.

Evidence shows vaccines are sufficiently effective in reducing hospitalisations and deaths in those vaccinated.

Infection rates do not risk a surge in hospitalisations which would put unsustainable pressure on the NHS.

Our assessment of the risks is not fundamentally changed by new Variants of Concern

Government criteria for relaxing Lockdown restrictions

In York the number of COVID patients has fallen dramatically as the vaccination programme has been rolled out.

So in theory this, and the further relaxation of rules (including reopening shops) scheduled for the 12th April, will go ahead.

What will be of concern will be the ability of the authorities to deter trips from high Coronavirus rate areas to lower ones.

While York now enjoys a relatively low rate (currently around 30) areas as close to the City as Barnsley (187), Hull (145), Bradford (141) and Wakefield (131) have rates over four times higher.

From Mar 29, six people from six different households are allowed to meet outside, meaning the so-called ‘rule of six’ returns.

Alternatively, two households can meet outside. This means two families, who potentially together total more than six people, will be allowed to meet. This can happen in both outdoor public spaces and in back gardens.

The ‘stay at home’ guidance will be dropped. There will also be a significant loosening in how far people can travel to see someone outside. 

While people will still be encouraged to minimise travel, there will not be punishments for someone who drives a few hours for a meet-up outside, then returns that day. 

Outdoor organised sports for both adults and children will also return. This is for both socially distanced sports like golf and tennis and team sports like football, so Sunday league and five-a-side will return. 

Indoor sports will still be off limits. Also the sports must be organised, so a large group of people cannot gather to kick around a football if it breaks the number limits explained above.

Coronavirus York updates; 24th March 2021

Deaths

There have been no hospital deaths announced today. That makes it a week since the last fatality at the York Hospital Trust

Test results

Thirteen more positive test results were announced today bringing the cumulative total to 12,147.

The number of cases in the City has fallen from 65 yesterday to 64 today

The case rate /100k population has fallen slightly to 30.39. However it is likely to edge up again towards the end of the week.

Case numbers at regional level remain stable. They have fallen slightly at county and national level.

Neighbourhoods

The infection rate in Stensall has fallen back below 100.

Two neighbourhoods now have zero infections

Vaccinations

Tests

4545 PCR tests were carried out in York during the week ending 19th March.

Of these, 1.4% were positive. That is the same percentage as the previous day

1811 “lateral flow” tests were also carried out on 23rd March

More symptom-free testing slots available

More slots have been made available for residents to get a symptom-free test at one of three testing sites across the city.

Tests are still available at the University of York, York St John University and the York Leisure Centre- part of the York Stadium Leisure Complex. Residents can now book tests well into April and tests will be available to be booked in at least one of the sites on every day throughout the Easter weekend.

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

These symptom-free testing sites are a crucial part of our citywide effort to stop the spread of the virus.

“We are hugely grateful to the two universities and Better York for their continued support and to everyone who is getting tested regularly.

“Symptom-free tests are making a difference, identifying cases of the virus early and stopping people from unknowingly spreading it to others.

“With the advances of home testing we are reviewing our testing strategy so in the coming weeks and months it is even easier to get a regular test.

“Appointments at our symptom-free testing sites can be booked online.”

Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health said:

1 in 3 cases of Coronavirus has no symptoms. It is crucial that people continue to get tested regularly so we can identify cases quickly and stop the virus from spreading.

“That we have carried out so many tests is testament to the city’s collective efforts and long may that continue.

“We have hope ahead with the next steps of the roadmap and the vaccine rolling out. However, we must keep up our efforts and get tested regularly (even if you have had the vaccine) to protect people across the city.

“By having regular tests and practicing hands, face, space we are all playing a vital role in the city’s fight against Coronavirus.”

Hospitals

York Hospital Trust is currently treating 32 confirmed and Covid-19 inpatients . Five patients are in intensive care.

2,083 Covid-19 patients have been treated and discharged since the start of the pandemic

Coronavirus York updates; 23rd March 2021

Deaths

York residents

The latest ONS figures, detailing the number of deaths of York residents as a result of COVID-19, have been published.

During the week ending 12th March 2021 there were 3 fatalities.

Two occurred in a hospital and one at a care home.

That means the pandemic total death toll is now 371.

The number of deaths recorded continues to fall steeply and is now fewer than could be seen in a “normal” winter week.

The have been no deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust today. The last fatality occurred on 17th March

Test results

Six additional positive test results have been announced today. They bring the cumulative total to 12,134

The number of cases in the City remains at 65

The rate per /100k population figure is 30.86. It is expected to remain at around this level for the remainder of the week.

Neighbourhoods

Little change today although Strensall has edged back over the 100 case rate threshold

The infection rates at county, regional and national level have shown small reductions today

Vaccinations

Tests

4439 PCR test were carried out during the week ending 18th March 2021

Of these., 1.4% were positive. That is the same percentage as the previous day

In additional 3192 “lateral flow” test were conducted on 22nd March

Support and comfort for bereaved residents

On the first anniversary of the lockdown, the York council is supporting St Leonard’s Hospice’s acts of remembrance and is reminding residents of the bereavement support available to them.

Today, on the anniversary of the first lockdown on Tuesday 23 March, the city walls are lit in the yellow and blue colours of the Hospice to offer people a moment of reflection. The Hospice is also creating a time capsule of memories for their garden.

For those bereaved in York, St Leonard’s Hospice, Cruse York and Bereaved Children’s Support York all offer specialist support. Besides these local resources, there are a number of national organisations offering support. These include Marie Curie which is leading the National Day of Reflection – more at https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/get-involved/day-of-reflection.

For children and young people who have lost loved ones, the York’s schools are able to help. The Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSAs) are available as is a web page on supporting children with loss and bereavement. It was originally created for staff but has been recently opened to the public at https://bit.ly/EdPsyYorkEd . The e-module is located under the coronavirus tab and lasts about 45 minutes altogether.

Cllr Carol Runciman, Executive Member for Health and Adults, said:

“For all those bereaved at this most difficult time, my heart goes out to you. However you remember loved ones, I hope you are able to find comfort from these collective moments of reflection. 

“Specialist bereavement support for York residents is available from St Leonard’s Hospice, Cruse York and Bereaved Children’s Support York, and are complemented by other national organisations. 

“With the roll out of vaccinations and the various testing options available, there is real hope ahead for us all.”

Emma Johnson, Chief Executive at St Leonard’s Hospice said: 

“Through our ‘One Year On’ campaign, we have given the local community the chance to remember their key lockdown moments. We also felt it was important to give people the chance to pause and reflect on loved ones and friends who have died.

“Our team of bereavement support volunteers continue to provide support and advice. If you are grieving it can be a lonely experience and the current COVID-19 restrictions can make this worse, as you don’t have the same support and connections. We offer bereavement support to any adult in the York community – you don’t have to have had a relative cared for by us. I would urge anyone who is struggling with their grief to get in touch with our highly experienced team.”

•    To self-refer for ongoing bereavement support, please contact St Leonard’s Hospice on 01904 708 553. Or for immediate, in the moment support, please call 01904 777 772.  More detail at www.stleonardshospice.org.uk/

•    For bereavement care from Cruse call 0808 808 1677. Or, to contact York Cruse please call 01904 481162 or email: york@cruse.org.uk or send a message through its Facebook page via Messenger

•    For Macmillan’s range of services related to end of life care, choose ones close to you at https://www.macmillan.org.uk/in-your-area/choose-location.html

•    For a range of support services for people with life limiting conditions – find local services from Marie Curie at https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/local

•    If you are under 51 and bereaved, Widowed and Young (WAY) can provide support at www.widowedandyoung.org.uk

•    Emotional support for families who have lost a baby is available from the Lullaby Trust. To talk to a trained team member, call 0808 802 6868 or go to www.lullabytrust.org.uk/

•    Bereaved Children’s Support York offers free one-to-one counselling to any York child who has lost a parent, sibling or other significant person: www.bcsy.org.uk/ or www.facebook.com/bereavedchildrensupportyork 

•    For bereaved children, City of York Council’s Educational Psychologists have written a short booklet for children at www.york.gov.uk/WhenSomeoneCloseDies .There is an accompanying guide to help school staff, parents and carers support a child or children through the grieving process at www.york.gov.uk/SupportingBereavedChildren

•    For practical help when someone dies, call the Bereavement Advice Centre on 0800 634 9494 on online at www.bereavementadvice.org/

•    To help employers to better support employees and colleagues who may be affected by grief, Dying Matters (www.dyingmatters.org) offers a Compassionate Employers programme

•    A range of bereavement support from At A Loss includes online access to a bereavement counsellor at: http://www.ataloss.org/ 

Please note that each telephone number may have differing opening times. Please refer to the website for details.

Coronavirus updates; 22nd March 2021

Deaths

No further hospital deaths today.

Last death was on 17th March.

Fatality numbers are falling across the whole region.

Test results

There have been 12 new positive test results announced today. That brings the cumulative total to 12,128

The number of cases in the City has fallen by 3 from 68 yesterday to 65 today.

The rate /100k population has fallen to 30.86. It is expected to remain at around 30 for most of this week.

The rate at North Yorkshire level has fallen for the first time in several days.

The rate at regional level remains stubbornly high. It is over three times higher than the rate in York. The high number of cases in West Yorkshire casts a shadow over whether the promised easing of restriction in April will actually occur (unless stringent travel restrictions are maintained)

Neighbourhoods

Half of York’s neighbourhoods now have fewer than 3 cases in each.

No area has more than 8 cases. In January, one neighbourhood alone recorded over 144 cases.

Vaccinations

Tests

4310 PCR tests were carried out durng the week ending 17th March 2021

The positivity rate was 1.4% which is slightly higher than the previous days figure of 1.3%

In addition, 5701 “lateral flow” tests were conducted on 21st March

Transport mode use

The government has issued some experimental figures which demonstrate the changing travel choices that people have made during the pandemic. One set of figures covers the north east of England

Not surprisingly car use continues to be the preferred choice for most people although vehicle numbers remain well below what was seen before the pandemic hit.

Pedestrian and cycling movements fell to a record low in February (possibly because of the weather) but are now trending upwards.

Again perhaps not surprisingly, van movements have been relatively stable,

Use left hand axis for cars. Right for other modes.

Council urges to businesses to apply for “financial lifeline” before deadline

City of York Council is reminding eligible business who have not yet applied for Additional Restriction Grant (ARG) funding to do so before the 31 March 2021.

To check if you are eligible visit: https://www.york.gov.uk/COVID19BusinessGrants

This additional funding has so far supported around 1,300 York businesses which have not been forced to close but have been severely impacted by restrictions.

As government support changes by level of restriction, different businesses qualify for ARG under November’s lockdown, the small number of days we spent under Tier 3 restrictions and now the third national lockdown.

As we move through the Government roadmap and businesses are able to reopen, ARG will be withdrawn on a sector by sector basis, following the published steps.

The scheme is available to:

  • businesses with permanent fixed premises in York, where trade is impacted by more than 75% due to lockdown, and who may or may not be liable for business rates in York (market stalls or pitches are not considered a fixed premises)
  • businesses where trade is usually conducted in York for 75% or more of the time, and where trade is severally impacted by the lockdown restrictions

The government sets national criteria for funds to be paid, our local offering uses those criteria. If eligible, businesses will receive different amounts depending on their circumstances.

Be aware that:

  • we’ll only consider paying grants to businesses where all of the eligibility criteria are met
  • grants to businesses will be treated as taxable income
  • for partnerships, each partner would need to make a separate application for the business to receive more than 1 grant

If eligible, the payment businesses receive depends on certain circumstances:

  • up to £1,334, per 28 days in Tier 3 or 4, for businesses with fixed commercial premises costs (rent payable to a landlord)
  • £500 per 28 day qualifying restriction period, for businesses without fixed premises costs*
  • £2,000 per 28 day qualifying restriction period, for businesses with a rateable value of more than £15,000, but less than £51,000
  • £3,000 per 28 day qualifying restriction period, for businesses with a rateable value greater than £51,000

* Examples include a mobile hairdressers (falling under leisure and beauty mandated to close), taxi drivers (leisure sector mandated to close) or commercial electricians (non-essential retail mandated to close), and market traders.

If your business still falls through the cracks of government schemes to please contact us as soon as possible at economicgrowth@york.gov.uk