ONE additional death announced by the York Hospital Trust today. The fatality occurred on Wednesday.
Test results
ONE HUNDRED and NINETEEN (119) new positive test results announced today. Brings total to 9841
Infection rate continues to decline in the City.
Rate /100k population is now 603.49. Trending down to 500 early next week.
There was a reduction of 114 cases compared to previous days figure.
That is a big improvement but still some way to go before we get back to pre Christmas levels.
Case numbers are continuing to reduce at all levels (City, county, regional and national)
Hospitals
As of 12th January there were 156 Coronavirus patients occupying beds at the York Hospital Trust.
Of these, 6 were in intensive care.
Neighbourhoods
10th January – the latest date on which data was validated – saw reductions in infection levels in many neighbourhoods.
More are now showing in the “blue” category – indicating that they have an infection rate below 400.
There was a reduction in cases in the Westfield area but a small increase in Woodthorpe comparing one day’s figures with the previous.
Residents will be hoping to see a sustained reduction in case levels, in west and north York in particular, next week.
Vaccinations
Across the United Kingdom 3,234,946 people have now had their first dose of vaccine. 443,234 have received their second dose.
Over 300,000 vaccinations are now taking place each day.
No local data has yet been published by the government. The most recent NHS figures (14th Jan) for the regions are
Vaccination centre parking and buses
A new regional vaccination centre is being set up at Askham Bar. It is an extension of the existing facility there and will have extended opening hours
Askham Bar vaccination centre being expanded
First York have issued the following statement about the impact that the centre may have on its services
Askham Bar Park & Ride to help users of new Covid vaccine centre
A section of parking spaces at Askham Bar Park & Ride, operated by First York in partnership with City of York Council, will be cordoned off from Monday 18 January to help users arriving for appointments at a new Covid vaccination centre.
Disabled parking and electric charging points situated immediately behind the Park & Ride building are not affected and the site remains fully operational.
The opening of the vaccination facility, adjacent to the nearby Tesco store, means from today Service 3 buses will begin using the entrance and exit of the main public carpark at Askham Bar as the bus-only lane at the rear of the supermarket will be closed off to allow simpler traffic flow and access to the vaccination point.
Service 3 will use the Moor Lane Car Park bus stop off the roundabout on the A1036 Tadcaster Road close to the Tesco store in both directions and will not use the Tesco Car Park stop. The change will remain in place until further notice.
Marc Bichtemann, Managing Director of First York, said: “This is a minor alteration that won’t cause any delays for our customers and has been planned out carefully. It’s a further example of the close working relationship we have with the council and other partners in the city to help the community manage life in lockdown. It also demonstrates our joint approach with the council to support the tremendous effort to roll-out the vaccine which will provide a path out of the pandemic.”
He added: “Our drivers are there on the frontline, as they have been throughout the crisis, to ensure key workers and anyone making essential journeys can get where they need to be safely.
“Although we are carrying fewer passengers right now, it is important that everyone continues to wear a face covering properly for the whole time they are on the bus and use a cashless way to pay, if possible.”
Cllr Carol Runciman, Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care, City of York Council said: “It’s great to be playing our part and supporting the NHS with the space for this vaccination roll-out. I would like to encourage residents who have been contacted to attend a vaccination centre that this a safe, quick and easy process.
“As we continue to stay home and follow lockdown restrictions, is it vitally important that we maintain smooth public transport services for those who need them for essential journeys and for critical workers.”
First York drivers and other staff have been involved a variety of initiatives for communities across York during the crisis including hospital fundraising, council refuse collection, shopping and prescription pick-up and at the end of last year the company teamed up with Age UK York to support the elderly who have been isolated due to lockdown and Covid restrictions.
“It’s a testament to the attitude and passion of the team to do what they can to help York and local people through this situation and aid the recovery,” said Marc Bichtemann.
Two additional deaths were announced by the York Hospital Trust today. Both occurred on Tuesday. The cumulative total number of fatalities at the York and Scarborough hospitals since 1st September now stands at 196.
Test results
ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY NINE additional positive test results announced today. Brings cumulative total to 9722.
Rate /100k population falls to 657.42 and is expected to reduce to below 600 over the next couple of days.
The Council has said that 2.5% of asymptomatic people taking lateral flow tests in York had positive results.
This compares with 17.3% (latest 7 day rolling figure to 4th January) who took P1 & P2 tests.
The Thanet Road test site has been closed today because of the weather
It is scheduled to reopen on Saturday
Neighbourhoods
Caser numbers are now beginning to fall across most of the City.
They are also falling at county, regional and national levels.
Vaccinations
Not available at local level
Some regional figures were published today as below
Outbreak Management Board meeting
A recording of the meeting can be viewed by clicking below
It was claimed at the meeting that local authorities had not been advised by the government of;
the number and percentage of York residents who have been vaccinated locally &
the numbers and details of people who have not responded to an invitation to be vaccinated.
That seems to us to be a major system failing (given that progress numbers ARE aggregated and published at a national level.)
The meeting did hear that arrangements had been made to ensure that people who were unable to go “on line” to book jabs would still be able to arrange an appointment.
The meeting heard that 144 (2.5%), of the 5888 lateral flow tests carried out so far in the City, on asymptomatic residents, had produced a positive result.
This is the equivalent of an “R” value of 1.4 and could help to explain the rapid rise in cases over the last two weeks.
No information was provided on the percentage of positive test being recorded at the mobile test sites (Bishopthorpe, Thanet Road).
NB. The mobile test site uses the PCR laboratory based system which is generally regarded as being more accurate than the lateral flow option)
Acorn Rugby Club event
The media are reporting that some of those who attended an event at the Acorn Rugby Club before Christmas have contracted Coronavirus. To read the media report please click here
Please remember that the mobile testing centre on Thanet Road will remain open for another week. Book a test here www.nhs.uk/Coronavirus
Letter to parents from York Council
A letter to parents and carers with children at schools in York.
Dear parents/carers,
Following the announcement of the third national lockdown on 4 January, City of York Council has been working with the city’s schools to ensure that they are able to provide a vital service for critical workers and vulnerable children in the city whilst continuing to operate safely.
At a time when the rates of infection both nationally and locally are rising it is very important that we work together to protect frontline services. At the same time we need to continue to prevent the spread of the virus by keeping the number of household contacts to a minimum.
Last week, the Government followed up its initial guidance on who qualifies as a critical worker. The Government is now asking parents and carers who are critical workers to keep their children at home if possible and only use a school place if they have no other options available.
If you qualify as a critical worker but can manage to have your children at home we would urge you to do so. The fewer children we have in schools, the more it will help in our collective efforts to stop the spread of the virus.
Our schools have risk assessments in place which allow them to work safely and to minimise the risk of transmission of Covid19. For this to work as effectively as possible schools need to have the capacity to support home learning as well as having sufficient staff to supervise children on site. For these reasons they need to keep the numbers in school at a safe level.
We appreciate that this is a difficult time for parents and carers. We know that this situation is causing considerable disruption to your personal and working lives. Schools are also working extremely hard to ensure that places are available for frontline workers and for vulnerable children.
We would also, like you, much prefer to have children in school. However, in order to reduce the rates of infection, and following the latest Government advice, we would ask you to think carefully about your individual circumstances, particularly if you or your partner is able to work from home. If you can, it would be really helpful for the safe management of our schools and the suppression of the virus if you could make arrangements to keep your child at home. Where this proves impossible then we will work with parents and carers to find access to provision.
To help support families during the coronavirus pandemic, our educational psychology team has created a booklet with information about how parents can look after their own emotional health, and support their children, which you may find useful. You can find it on our website.
You can also keep up to date with the latest information about the coronavirus response in York:
We are incredibly grateful for all you have done already and on behalf of the city, thank you for all you are doing to reduce the spread of the virus.
Stay safe and best wishes
Councillor Keith Orrell Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education City of York Council
Amanda Hatton Corporate Director of People City of York Council
Fixed Penalty Notices issued from 6 January 2021
North Yorkshire Police have issued 107 FPNs for breaches of the Coronavirus regulations since the new national lockdown commenced on 6 January 2021.
Local Authority Area where Notice Issued
Total Notices Issued
Local Residents
Visitors
Male
Female
Being Outside Place of Living
Outdoor Gathering
Indoor Gathering
Obstruct / Contravene
Craven
19
1
18
16
3
19
Hambleton
4
4
4
4
Harrogate
10
10
9
1
10
Richmond
Ryedale
Scarborough
49
35
14
28
21
15
34
Selby
3
2
1
3
3
York
22
19
3
16
6
7
15
TOTALS
107
57
50
76
31
58
0
49
0
Speaking about the number of fines issued in the first week of the national lockdown, Superintendent Mike Walker, lead for the force’s Covid-19 response said:
“We have issued 107 fixed penalty notices since the national lockdown commenced on 6 January 2021, which is more than double the number we issued in the first week of the first national lockdown last year.
“Sadly we are seeing a minority of people flouting the rules and who are making unnecessary journeys into or across the county or who are gathering indoors and holding house parties.
“I cannot emphasis enough the risk this behaviour presents at this current time and I urge people to think about their actions and very carefully consider the decisions they make about leaving home. You should only leave home for essential reasons and if you do go out, you should stay local.
“Currently within North Yorkshire and the City of York we have some of the highest infection rates across the Yorkshire and Humber region. So it isn’t just about the risk of people bringing the virus in with them. It’s about the risk that you could pick up the virus here and take it home with you, spreading it wider to your family and loved ones.
“So please follow the rules – stay home, protect the NHS and save lives.”
FIVE (5) more Coronavirus deaths were announced by the York Hospital Trust today. One occurred yesterday, three on Monday and one on Sunday.
The death toll on 10th January, at eight, is the joint highest single day figure seen since the spring.
Test results
TWO HUNDRED (200) additional positive test results announced today. Brings cumulative figure up to 9593.
The rate /100k population has now peaked at 670.91. It is expected to trend back down to around 600 by the end of the week.
During the week ending 8th January case numbers increased at all levels. York remains above the national average.
However, the rate of increase in case numbers in the City has slowed over the last week.
There is a reasonable expectation that case numbers will now start to fall.
Neighbourhoods
The 1413 cases total (w/e 8th Jan) was the highest total recorded in the City
The western suburbs continued to be badly affected.
Vaccinations
As at 12th January 2,639,309 people in England had received first dose COVID vaccinations.
York figures have not yet been published (but understood to be over 10,000)
Test site to remain open
We understand that the mobile test site, currently occupying the Acorn Rugby Club Car Park on Thanet Road, will remain open for another week (except Friday) . Organisers say that over 1000 test have been carried out at teh site over the last week.
York Wheels have written to local Councillors giving the following information
“Here at York wheel we run 2 services with the support of York City Council.
York Wheel – Volunteer car scheme community transport – for a small fee we take customers to hospital/dentist/podiatry appoints and are currently working with Nimbus (Askham Bar COVID centre) to assist in the transport of the elderly to the facility to enable ALL to have their COVID injection. A small charge is made to cover the drivers fuel (approx. 50% less than a taxi)
Dial & Ride – Mini bus service which takes customers to the main supermarkets – enabling them to keep their independence and to travel is groups of 6 safely to the supermarkets – the cost if £3.30 return of they hold a York City Bus Pass.
The customer must be eligible to travel on the above schemes and this entails been a York residence, been elderly, disabled or unable to travel on public transport for both schemes. The mini buses are also fitted to enable wheelchair users to access the vehicles whilst still in their wheelchairs.
Usually we are open for other appointments but during COVID times we are currently only carry out necessary journeys under government rules. Finally due to the current situation we are a cashless office and at the time of booking the car scheme customers pay in advance via card. On the mini bus service they are able to use card for payment of the journey as each bus carries their own card machine.
Please feel free to pass our details to your constituents and local GPs etc. and we will assist were possible.
For the car scheme York Wheels call 01904 630080
For Dial & Ride please call 01904 551441
The charity has been working to help the residents of York for over 35 years and all our drivers are DRS checked and carry out thorough PPE both during and after journeys”.
Support key workers by following the rules say authorities
This Thursday (14 January), many across the country will join in the ‘Clap for Heroes’ at 8pm to celebrate the hard work of those on the front line.
This week, council leaders are asking residents in York to show their continued support and respect of our key workers by following public health guidance and helping ease the pressure on the NHS.
Over the last month, coronavirus cases in York have increased significantly, and residents are being asked to stay local, stay at home as much as possible, and help stop the spread of the virus. The latest validated rate of new Covid cases at 7 January was 637.6 per 100,000, above the regional average of 322.8 and the national average of 629.9.
Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council, said:
We have all been incredibly grateful to key workers for their amazing efforts, not just this lockdown, but throughout much of 2020. With case numbers continuing to rise, it is now more important than ever that we all do everything we can to stop the spread and keep each other safe.
“I remain ever thankful for the hard work and sacrifices made by our key workers and I know that many residents will agree that the best way to truly demonstrate our thanks is to make sure that we avoid making their jobs even harder at this difficult time.”
“We know lockdown has been incredibly difficult for many, and I would urge anyone that needs support to get in touch with the Council Covid support team by covid19help@york.gov.uk or calling 01904 551550.”
Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health, said:
the best thing any of us can do to support our key workers is to follow the guidance and stay at home. Last year the ‘Clap for Carers’ campaign was a great demonstration of the gratitude we all feel for those working on the front line.
“People working in a huge range of sectors have worked hard to make sure we can all continue to stay home to stay safe and therefore, we must not make their jobs any more difficult at this point by not following the latest national guidance. So I would encourage everyone not to leave their homes, unless it’s essential and remember to wash our hands, wear a face mask and keep a safe distance from others.
Wendy Scott, Chief Operating Officer for York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said:
the number of Covid-positive patients being admitted, and the rapid rise in number of cases, means that our hospitals are under growing pressure. The number of Covid-positive patients in hospital is now significantly higher than the number we experienced in the first wave.
“Our staff are doing an outstanding job responding to the pandemic; however it is absolutely vital that we all play a part in reducing the spread of the virus by complying with the lockdown restrictions and by following the health guidance of Hands, Face, Space.
“The emergency departments in both of our hospitals are also extremely busy. Please help us to help you by only using A&E for emergencies that are life or limb-threatening. If you are unsure about what to do, please consult NHS 111 first (by phone or online) to help you get the right service.”
Covid marshalls continue supporting city to be safe in lockdown
To continue supporting covid safety measures during lockdown, the council’s covid support marshalls are working in outlying areas to advise businesses and residents in lockdown.
Following the Government’s announcement for England to go into lockdown, the marshalls are helping to encourage people not to mix but to stay in household or bubble groups while keeping 2 metres distance. They are now adding new areas of the city to their rounds to lend their support, such as at popular walking spots, supermarkets and testing sites.
The marshalls will visit outlying shopping areas to add to the 525 city centre businesses they’ve already helped to implement and maintain covid-safe measures. This work builds on action begun by the council’s Environmental Health and Licensing teams. It includes helping shops and takeaways to manage queues, to display Trace and Test QR codes and to maintain hand sanitation stations.
The team has already advised 410 groups of people in the city centre. This included asking them to keep two metres apart and if they’re from the same household, to giving out 105 items of PPE including hand sanitiser, masks and information.
The marshalls have also been picking up dropped face masks which can present a health hazard. So far they’ve picked up and safely disposed of 510 face masks.
Councillor Andrew Waller, Executive Member for Economy and Strategic Planning, said:
“The marshalls’ work continues to be invaluable in ensuring that social distancing and face-coverings continue to be observed within businesses currently allowed to open.
“It is vital that people feel confident that others around them are following the necessary steps to reduce the spread of Covid-19.”
Councillor Denise Craghill, Executive Member for Housing and Safer Neighbourhoods, said:
“It is crucial now that we all do everything we can to minimise our contact with others, in order to save lives and protect the NHS, and our marshalls are supporting the city do just that.
FOUR additional deaths have been announced by the York Hospital Trust today. That brings the total since 1st September up to 189, Two fatalities occurred yesterday and two on Sunday.
The latest ONS figures, showing the number of deaths of York residents from Coronavirus during the week ending 1st January, have been published.
They show 10 fatalities with nine occurring at a hospital and one at home. That is the highest single week number since May.
In total, the death toll for York residents has now reached 227 of which 56 have lost their lives since 1st September.
NB. These figures vary from those published by the York Hospital Trust as the latter covers a larger area.
According to the Care Quality Commission an additional death occurred in a York care home on 5th January. That brings the total York care home death toll to 91. Most fatalities occurred in the Spring.
Test results
ONE HUNDRED and FIFTY FOUR (154) additional positive test results announced today. Brings cumulative total to 9239.
Rate /100k population is now 637.37. Will increase to 670.44 before beginning to trend down
The York infection rate is now above the national, regional and county averages.
Click to access
Vaccinations
As of 11th January 1,959,151 people in England had been vaccinated.
York Minsterclosed to public. Deans park remains open
York Minster has issued the following statement
We are now closed for public services, private prayer and sightseeing. We will also continue to livestream Sunday services at 11am and 4pm via our YouTube channel, so you can join the services from home.
York Minster has closed to the public from today (Tuesday 12 January) until further notice in response to the Coronavirus pandemic.
The cathedral closed to sightseeing visitors on 31 December when York moved into tier three, but has now also closed for public services and private prayer.
Clergy will continue to offer prayer inside the cathedral on a daily basis and services will be livestreamed on Sundays so people can join worship from their homes.
The Dean of York, The Right Revd Dr Jonathan Frost, said: “We feel this is the right decision in the current climate to keep our staff, volunteers, visitors and congregations safe.
“We will review the decision on a regular basis. In the meantime, our clergy will continue to keep the regular pattern of daily prayer within the cathedral and we will continue to offer worship online so people can join us from the comfort of their own homes.”
Members of the public can send a prayer to be said in the cathedral by a member of the clergy by emailing prayer@yorkminster.org.
Dean’s Park, the green space to the north of the cathedral, will remain open on a daily basis from 10am to 4pm.
Financial Help
A new Council report reveals the scale of financial concerns in the York community as a result of COVID-19.
The report says that £1.2 million had been used to alleviate hardship by the end of September.
Hardship fund expenditure
Most went on reducing Council Tax liability. Around 9,000 residents have benefited.
Another £416,729 is being used to support a winter grant scheme. Part of this is being used to fund free school meals during holidays. The grant scheme is open to applications for anyone with savings of less than £2000.
Around 250 applications a week are being received.
The council received £298k in government funding from DHPs for 2020/21 in order to help with housing costs. So far 43% of this budget has been spent.
The numbers in work, but benefiting from on universal credit, almost doubled from 2762 to 5761 between March 2020 and September 2020.
There was a similar rise from claimants not in work.
A lot of work is going into expanding digital access to services. Those who do not currently have “on line” access are at a significant disadvantage during periods of lockdown.
Council tenant arrears stood at £975,943 in April 2020 (similar to the previous year end figure).
Arrears had increased to £1.23 million by the end of December.
The Council partly blames the DWP for the rise, citing bureaucratic hurdles to universal credit changes and staff shortages.
The Council sees the further development of community hubs as part of the long term solution to poverty in the City
SEVEN (7) additional deaths were announced by the York Hospital Trust today. Five occurred yesterday (10th), one on the 9th and one on 7th.
The cumulative toll since 1st of September is now 185.
Test results
Number of tests being conducted in York is rising. Percentage positive still below 20%
ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY EIGHT (128) additional positive test results have been announced today. That brings the cumulative total to 9239.
The latest validated cases /100k population figure is 627.43, slightly up on yesterday. It is expected to trend up to 660 before beginning to fall towards the end of the week.
The rate of increase has clearly now slowed.
At neighbourhood level there has been a significant drop in case numbers in Woodthorpe/Acomb Park
Numbers in Westfield/Chapelfields continue to rise, as they do in Clifton Without and Acomb.
York is now close to the national case number average (which is reducing). Figures at county and regional level are also stabilising.
Vaccinations
According to media reports, Citywide Health – York’s Independent Pharmacy Group – has posted on its Facebook page that the milestone of vaccinating the 10,000th patient York passed on Saturday.
It said the the Askham Bar site operated by Nimbuscare had Covid vaccinated 6,000 patients, whilst another 4,500 patients had been vaccinated at Haxby Group Practice.
“Citywide Health provided pharmacy support throughout the day, including the introduction of the new Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine,” it said.
“York has now delivered a first Covid vaccination to over 50 per cent of over 80s and care home residents and staff.
“Practices are working through patient lists and booking appointments for those over 80. Practices will be offering the vaccine to the remaining 50 per cent, which should happen over the next two weeks.”
West Offices customer centre to move online
Following the latest Government advice that people should only travel for essential reasons, City of York Council will be closing its customer centre at West Offices from Tuesday 12 January.
This will help to further protect residents and staff and prevent the spread of coronavirus in the city.
As people have been following the guidance and contacting the customer centre online or over the phone where possible, there has been a large drop in the number of people coming into West Offices.
During this time, our priority is to ensure we are able to provide essential services to those in most need and do not create an increased risk of infection.
All welfare assistance, business support information and forms are available online and those residents who need more help can call the customer centre on 01904 551550 for further help.
For routine business, as always, residents can call our customer service team during opening hours. People can also visit www.york.gov.uk where they can access most services 24/7. With many services operating under different arrangements, customers are urged to visit the council’s website for the latest information.
Essential face to face conversations with vulnerable residents and those accessing social care will still be facilitated, as part of their existing care. Any visits to individual’s homes will follow public health guidance.
Existing community and neighbourhood support will continue and the council’s new network of community hubs are continuing to ensure vulnerable people are identified and are able to access the support they need.
Arrangements are being made for Blue Badge assessment appointments to continue at West Offices whilst the customer centre is closed, and those arrangements will be communicated with all those attending.
People needing help with no other source in place, can email COVID19help@york.gov.ukor phone 01904 551550 and they will be contacted.
Executive Member for Finance and Performance, Cllr Nigel Ayre, said:
As always, the safety of both residents and staff is of paramount importance. It has, once again, become of national importance that we all play our part in reducing the spread of coronavirus to protect our communities.
During this difficult time, we have taken the decision to temporarily close the customer centre while the current Government guidelines are in place.
“With the Governments advice to only leave the home for food, work or exercise, we have seen a marked drop in visits to our customer centre and instead, people have been accessing our services through different means, either by phone or online.
“I’d like to reassure people that the Council is still open for business and residents will still receive the same level of service over the phone or online, we just need to be extra careful to minimise face to face contact to help slow the spread of the virus.”
All of our welfare benefits, including council tax and housing, and emergency schemes are available online with assistance available over the phone.
All services previously provided face to face in the customer centre by appointment, for example revenues and benefits, housing, planning and Citizens Advice York will all be available over the phone.
Our phone lines are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am until 5.30pm except on bank holidays. Remember most queries can be answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, on our website.
The council will closely monitor and follow Government advice and reopen the customer centre when national guidelines allow.
ONE additional death announced by the York Hospital Trust today. It occurred on Friday. Total number of fatalities since 1st September is now 178
TWO HUNDRED AND TEN (210) positive test results announced today. Brings the cumulative total up to 9111.
Rate /100k population is 186.1, slightly down on yesterday. However, it will trend up to 196.7 over the next few days.
The effects of the lockdown should be apparent before the end of the week. The growth rate in infections is already slowing.
Peak was the 245 cases seen on 4th January.
Case numbers over the 7 days to 5th January are down to 1303 from the 1319 recorded on 4th January. Similar reductions were seen at national, regional and county level.
Case numbers in the Woodthorpe/Acomb Park neighbourhoods have fallen for a second day.
Highest rates are recorded
in Westfield/Chapelfields and Clifton Without.
Vaccinations
Tesco Tadcaster Road busy at lunchtime. Least busy time is apparently in the evening after 8:00pm. Neighbouring vaccination site dealing efficiently with a steady flow of “customers”. Users speak well of the process.
ONE additional death announced by York Hospital Trust today. The death occurred on Thursday
ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY SIX (176) new positive test results announced today. Brings cumulative total to 8901.
The latest validated rate /100k population was 626.28 (4th Jan).
The subsequent trend is slightly downwards supporting hopes that the rate of increase in infection numbers in the City has stabilised.
The following table, which shows the 7 day rolling average number of cases in the City, also demonstrates that numbers may now have peaked. It may, however, be some days before there is a notable reduction in infection rates.
The figures for 8th and 9th will increase as more results are tabulated
The neighbourhood figures reflect the distribution of cases at the peak on 4th January. They should show modest improvements over the next few days.
Symptom free testing expanded with University of York
More testing slots are now available for those who are eligible after an agreement was reached between City of York Council and the University of York for a new symptom-free testing site.
The new site is now open and will offer more tests and increased hours to make it more convenient for people to get tested.
This means that York residents have more slots and a choice for when and where to get a symptom-free test. Since offering symptom-free testing in December 2020, thousands of tests have been done which have identified a number of positive tests, which has stopped the spread of Coronavirus.
The testing centre will be based at University of York Sport Centre sports hall, and working alongside the existing testing site based at York St John University, it will offer even more residents the chance to get tested. Free testing is now available for anyone (living or working in York) who is unable to work from home and is still going to work.
This includes staff working in education and early years, those in factories and construction and other essential sectors.
Testing continues to be offered to those who support the most vulnerable in the city, to school pupils who are eligible to attend school and to teachers who will be working in schools.
If you are eligible and need to book a test, please visit the council website.
Testing is voluntary, it will help you make informed decisions to help keep you, your family and friends as safe as possible, and help protect those most vulnerable to COVID-19. Testing is only another method to prevent the spread of COVID 19, the best ways to prevent the spread are to continue to comply with the public health messages of hands, face, space.
It is estimated that 1 in 3 people with coronavirus do not display symptoms and therefore, some individuals will be spreading the virus without realising. We advise that tests are booked regularly (every week), and that people get tested twice, 3 days apart.
Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council:
We are really grateful to the thousands of residents who have booked a test and are continuing to get tested regularly. It does make a difference and will help to stop the spread of the Coronavirus.
“Throughout this pandemic we have been working incredibly closely with our partners. Our thanks go to the University of York, who along with York St John University, are offering their testing site to residents. This is yet another example of how the city can come together to fight Coronavirus.”
Sharon Stoltz, Director for Public Health at City of York Council said:
This new site means we can offer more symptom-free tests to York residents. The early identification of symptom-free cases and subsequent self-isolation will help to stop the spread of the virus.
“That so many residents are taking symptom-free tests regularly is testament to how we are looking out for each other as a city. If you are eligible please book regular tests to help the city fight Coronavirus and keep the people you love safe.”
Professor Charlie Jeffery, Vice Chancellor of the University of York, said:
Throughout this pandemic we have been working with our key partners across the city and region to support the wider community and this is another example of that close collaboration.
“Asymptomatic testing is vital in reducing transmission rates and helping to protect the public, and ultimately the NHS, and I am pleased that we can play our part in broadening testing across the City to identify those showing no symptoms.”
Health Minister Lord Bethell said:
We’ve already come so far since first setting up a national testing programme at an unprecedented pace to help counter COVID-19, but we continue to strive to go further, faster.
“Innovations such as lateral flow tests hold the key to the next phase of our ambition to see mass, rapid testing available to people across the country.”
Attending school during lockdown
The Government has published details about children who can continue to attend school during the current lockdown.
A list of which job roles are defined as ‘critical workers’ for parents of school children, and those children who are defined as vulnerable, has been published by the Department for Education.
A number of different arrangement have been put in place so schools can provide IT equipment and internet access for children learning at home.
Children of critical workers can attend school during lockdown, along with vulnerable children, and children with Education and Health Care Plans.
Parents in York who are critical workers should contact their school to make arrangements for their children, should their children need to be in school full time.
Cllr Keith Orrell, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said:
We want to support the citywide and nationwide effort to bring infection rates down and the national guidance is to limit contacts between households as much as possible.
“We are working with York Schools and Academies Board to provide education on site and online for all children in the city, especially for the more vulnerable pupils. However, with the alarming increase in the number of confirmed cases in the city, we must continue to be cautious and follow the national guidance where possible.
“We appreciate that this is a difficult time for families and that this is a complex situation that schools are managing. With the recent change in national guidance and amount of working taking place, schools will respond to parents/carers as soon as they are able.”
Meanwhile the Government has put in place arrangements to provide children who need them with devices and internet access at home. This will be managed directly with schools.
All schools will provide information about their remote learning provision with families and there will be details on their websites by 25 January.
Useful resources for parents to support home learning can be found on the council website.
The guidance on children of critical workers and vulnerable children who can access schools or educational settings can be found on the gov.uk website.
Government guidance is that schools should speak to parents and carers to identify who needs to go to school. If it proves necessary, schools can ask for simple evidence that a parent is a critical worker, such as their work ID badge or pay slip. Parents and carers who are critical workers should keep their children at home if they can.
Children who are receiving support from social workers and those who have an Education and Health Care plan should all attend school during lockdown.
City leaders’ open letter to residents
Dear Resident
As you will have seen from the Prime Minister’s recent announcement, England has now entered another period of lockdown, which is anticipated to last until at least mid-February. We know how difficult this will be for so many of you and would like to thank you for all you have already done in such difficult circumstances. In the face of adversity, you have demonstrated the very best of our city.
Throughout last year, local residents and businesses worked hard to keep cases the lowest in the region and together, we reduced the spread of the virus. However, the beginning of 2021 has created a new challenge with the spread of the new variant of Coronavirus, and once again we must adapt.
This is not the start to the new year any of us wanted, but many of us may have anticipated. In recent weeks, across the country and including here in York, there has been an alarming increase in the number of positive cases. We all need to follow the new national guidance to save lives and protect the NHS. Time and time again, the people and businesses of York have demonstrated our community spirit and we must now do so again to keep those we love safe.
We fully recognise that this third lockdown will be difficult for everyone. We will continue to do everything we can to support residents and businesses through this difficult time by adapting our services, providing support and information, or lobbying the government for additional help for lower income families or businesses who are not covered by the grants available.
Anyone who has been affected by coronavirus and who needs support can contact us on 01904 551550 or covid19help@york.gov.uk.
Support is available for businesses who have had to close, including hospitality, retail and leisure businesses. There is also support available for residents including those who have to self-isolate. Details about our support is available at www.york.gov.uk/coronavirus.
This is a tough period for us all, however, with the vaccine roll out underway there is hope on the horizon. For now, we need to look after ourselves and each other.
We know we can get through this. We did it before and we can do it again.
We are incredibly grateful for all you have done already and on behalf of the city, thank you for all you are doing to reduce the spread of the virus.
Stay safe and best wishes,
Cllr Keith Aspden, Leader of the Council Cllr Andy D’Agorne, Deputy Leader Ian Floyd, Chief Operating Officer
Two further deaths announced today at the York Hospital Trust. One occurred on Tuesday and one yesterday.
There have been TWO HUNDRED AND NINE new positive test results announced today. That brings the cumulative total to 8725.
244 cases were recorded on 4th January. That was a record high.
However there may be some very early indications emerging that the rate of increase in infection levels may be slowing.
The current infection rate is now 574.05
The current trend will see this increase to 626.28
There has been the first – very small – reduction in case numbers in the Woodthorpe/Acomb Park neighbourhood.
There has been a sharp rise in the neighbouring Westfield and Acomb areas.
The latest figures are up to the 3rd January. Tomorrow (Saturday)we should see what we hope will be the peak when the figures for the 4th January are published.
York Council commentary
The Council has updated it commentary on the pandemic
People with Covid Symptoms
• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 4.1.21 there had been 290 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 7.1.21, the Covid Symptom App estimates 1,282.6 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 4,828 people). This is higher than the previous peak rate of 1,116.3 on 31.10.20.
Diagnosed cases (Pillar 1&2 combined)
• As at 7.1.21 York has had 8,522 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 4,046.2 per 100,000 of population. The cumulative rate in York is below the national (4,437.7) and regional (4,983.2) averages.
• The PHE ‘Exceedance’ rating compares the no. of new cases over a 14 day period with the previous 6 weeks and provides a RAG rating to indicate if the previously observed trend in the no. of new cases is worsening. The latest rating for York (4.1.21) is Red.
• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 30.12.20 to 5.1.21 in York is 595.9 (using data published on Gov.uk on 7.1.21).
• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 27.12.20 to 2.1.21 was 532.7. The national and regional averages at this date were 612.1 and 300.8 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 7.1.21).
• The rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 27.12.20 to 2.1.21 for people aged 60+ in York was 363.1. The national and regional averages were 412.6 and 216 respectively.
• As at 4.1.21, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 only) was 13.74%. The national and regional averages are 15.8% and 11.7% respectively. The breakdown for York over the last 7 days by type of test is 1,287 positives out of 7,001 lab based (PCR) tests (18.4%) and 41 positives out of 2,261 rapid (lateral flow) tests (1.54%) Source: NHS Digital
• As at 5.1.21, the latest 14 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 1 and 2 PCR tests combined) was 16.5%. The national and regional averages were 17.8% and 12.8% respectively. The breakdown for York over the last 14 days is a 6.8% positivity rate for Pillar 1 tests and a 18.6% positivity rate for Pillar 2 PCR tests. Source PHE
• As at 7.1.21 York University reported 39 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.
Contact Tracing
• Since 28.5.20 a total of 7,464 laboratory confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 6,556 of the cases have been completed (87.8%). 19,080 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 13,356 of these have been completed (70%). Source: PHE Report.
• Local Tracing of Cases: Between 22.10.20 and 1.1.21, 456 ‘actionable’ positive COVID-19 CYC cases have been referred to the local contact tracing service. 442 of the referrals (96.9%) have been actioned and 14 are still ‘in progress. Of the referrals actioned, 315 were successful and 113 were unable to be reached via phone or home visit, but guidance leaflets were posted where possible.
Cases in Residential Settings / Schools
• As at 7.1.21 there were 14 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 by PHE on 7.1.21 (1 home).
• In the 7 days up to 3.1.21 there were 104 children of primary and secondary school age who tested positive (across 40 different schools).
COVID Bed Occupancy in York Hospital
• As at 6.1.21 there were 71 confirmed Covid-19 patients in General and Acute beds. The previous figure on 6.1.21 was 66
• As at 6.1.21 there were 6 confirmed Covid-19 patients and 1 suspected Covid-19 patient in the Intensive Treatment Unit. The previous figures on 5.1.21 were 5 and 1 respectively.
• As at 6.1.21 there had been 0 patients admitted with suspected Covid-19 and 6 with confirmed Covid-19 in the previous 24 hours.
Recovery from Covid-19
• Between 13.4.20 and 20.12.20, 276 CYC residents had recovered and been successfully discharged from York hospital after needing NHS care for symptoms linked to covid-19 infection. 12 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 23.12.20 was estimated to be in the range 0.9 to 1.1. The previous estimate was (0.9 to 1.1) on 18.12.20.
Vaccinations
• Local data on the number of vaccinations completed is not currently available. At a national level, NHS England reported that between 8.12.20 and 3.1.20, 1,092,885 first dose and 19,981 second dose vaccinations had been administered.
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 25th December 2020 and registered up to 2nd January 2021, 218 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (109 in hospital, 91 in care homes, 12 at home and 6 in a hospice). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 103.5 which is lower than the national average of 130.56. There have been 46 Covid-19 deaths of CYC residents reported by ONS in the last 12 weeks (Weeks 41 to 52).
• ‘Excess’ deaths – all causes (ONS). Between week 2 and week 52 there were a total of 142 ‘excess deaths’ in York compared with the average weekly numbers for 2014-2018. The breakdown over the year so far is: 18 fewer deaths in weeks 2-14, 210 more deaths in weeks 15-21 (when covid deaths were at their peak) and 50 fewer deaths in weeks 22-52.
• Local Registrar data: In the weekly data received on 4.1.21 (for deaths occurring up to 30.12.20), a cumulative total of 216 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 81.8, with an age range of 44-104. The age profile of those dying in York is older than the national average. 106 of the 216 were male (49.1%), less than the national average (55.3%). 83 people (38.4%) died in nursing /care homes; (the national average is 25.39%). In addition 18 people (8.3%) who normally resided in nursing/care homes in the CYC area, died in hospital.
The York Hospital Trust has announced THREE additional deaths today. Two occurred on Monday and one last Friday. That brings the cumulative number of fatalities, at the York and Scarborough hospitals since 1st September, to 172.
The latest ONS figurespublished today reveal that a further 6 York residents fell victim to the COVID-19 virus during the week ending 25th December.
All are recorded as having died in hospital.
NB. these figures are different from those announced by the York Hospital Trust which covers a wider area.
TWO HUNDRED AND FORTY THREE (243) additional positive test results announced today. That is another record high and brings the cumulative total to 8323
The rate /100k population figure is now 496.1 and is trending upwards towards towards 594.47,
The rate has now exceeded the peak seen in the second wave on 16th October when a figure of 444.30 was recorded.
There continues to be large increases in case numbers across all neighbourhoods in York
Looks like it will be mid January before we can hope to see any sustained reduction in case numbers.
Council recovery plan
The Council has published an update on its COVID recovery plan. It can be read byclicking here
New COVID test site for Woodthorpe/Acomb Park/Foxwood south
A local COVID testing site has been established at the Acorn Rugby Club on Thanet Road.
It is a response to the very high local infection level and is aimed at those who have no virus symptoms.
It is open from Wednesday 6th until Wednesday 13th January inclusive, between 9am and 3pm.
No further deaths announced by the York Hospital Trust today
ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY NINE (189) additional positive test results announced today. Brings cumulative total to 8,080.
Rate /100k population is now 464.8.
Set to rise to 559.8
All neighbourhoods are now above the 200 case rate threshold.
By the end of 2020 there were 979 COVID cases in the City
Prior to lockdown, infection rates were increasing at City, county, regional and national levels. It will be next week at least before the effects of Lockdown 3 are reflected in case rate figures.
End of year neighbourhood trend graphs
Vaccinations
The vaccination centre on Moor Lane was not being used today. Improved lighting was being installed. Early recipients – over 80’s, care home occupants/workers and NHS staff – will mostly be immunised at their place of work or at a GP surgery. However, we’d expect the Moor Lane facility to become much busier over the next week or so
New Lockdown
The country woke up today to find that new lockdown restrictions were implemented at midnight. Full details can be found by clicking here
The restrictions are similar to those seen in the Spring although there are some exceptions (estate agents can, for example, continue working and religious services may take place subject to social distancing).
In summary the main features of the new lockdown – which is enforceable by law with on the spot fines for transgressors – are:
Stay at home
You must not leave, or be outside of your home except where necessary. You may leave the home to:
shop for basic necessities, for you or a vulnerable person
go to work, or provide voluntary or charitable services, if you cannot reasonably do so from home
exercise with your household (or support bubble) or one other person, this should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area.
seek medical assistance or avoid injury, illness or risk of harm (including domestic abuse)
attend education or childcare – for those eligible
Colleges, primary and secondary schools will remain open only for vulnerable children and the children of critical workers. All other children will learn remotely until February half term. Early Years settings remain open.
Higher Education provision will remain online until mid February for all except future critical worker courses.
If you do leave home for a permitted reason, you should always stay local in the village, town, or part of the city where you live. You may leave your local area for a legally permitted reason, such as for work.
If you are clinically extremely vulnerable you should only go out for medical appointments, exercise or if it is essential. You should not attend work
York Council offers support
City of York Council reassures residents and businesses following the announcement of further national restrictions.
Following this evening’s (4 January) announcement from the Prime Minister, City of York Council has moved to reassure residents and businesses that it will continue to support local communities after further national restrictions were introduced.
The Government is urging people to follow this guidance immediately. The law will be updated to reflect these new rules.
The Prime Minister announced the Government’s restrictions including that you must not leave, or be outside of your home except where necessary. You may leave the home to:
shop for basic necessities, for you or a vulnerable person
go to work, or provide voluntary or charitable services, if you cannot reasonably do so from home
exercise with your household (or support bubble) or one other person, this should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area.
meet your support bubble or childcare bubble where necessary, but only if you are legally permitted to form one
seek medical assistance or avoid injury, illness or risk of harm (including domestic abuse)
attend education or childcare – for those eligible
Anyone affected by coronavirus and who has no other sources of help, can call the Council’s Covid-19 helpline on telephone: 01904 551550 or email: covid19help@york.gov.uk
Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council said:
In recent weeks across the country, including here in York, there has been an alarming increase in the number of positive cases.
“Of course this isn’t the start to 2021 any of us wanted, but with this concerning trend, it is vital that we all follow the new national restrictions.”
“As we have done since the very beginning of this pandemic, the Council will continue to do all we can to make sure residents, businesses and communities are supported through this difficult time. We will also continue to make the case to Government for increased financial support, both to local businesses and households on low incomes.”
“I would like to thank everyone in the city, including our incredible volunteers, Council staff, key workers communities and businesses, who have already done so much in extraordinary circumstances and demonstrated the very best of our city.”
“This is a tough period for us all, but please look after each other and check in on friends, families and neighbours. With the vaccine roll out, there is hope on the horizon, but we need to pull through this once again.”
Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health at City of York Council said:
Over the last few weeks we have seen the number of infections significantly increase across all age groups. This is a cruel and unforgiving virus and therefore, we must do all we can to protect ourselves and each other by reducing our risk of spreading the virus and remembering Hands, Face, Space.
“None of us want to see further restrictions on our lives, but it is crucial that we stop the spread of the virus as the vaccine is rolled out. Everyone has sacrificed so much to look after each other, collectively we must go again.
“As well as looking after our physical health by practicing hands, face, space, we must also look after our mental health too. Anyone needing support can call our helpline and I would encourage those that can to exercise. 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.
“The Every Mind Matters campaign has lots of helpful tips for everyone to look after their emotional health. As a city we always look after each other and this has been demonstrated time and time again this year. Please stay safe, we will meet again”
Anyone affected by coronavirus and who has no other sources of help, can telephone: 01904 551550 or email: covid19help@york.gov.uk
