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.
No further hospital deaths today. There have been no fatalities recorded by the York Hospital Trust for 8 days now.
Test results
Sixteen additional positive tests today. Brings the cumulative total to 12,176.
The number of cases has increased from 63 to 65 today
As forecast, the infection rate has increased today to 30.86. On current trends, it is expected to remain above 30 throughout next week.
The infection rate has increased at every level (City, county, region and national) today. The reasons for this setback are unclear.
Neighbourhoods
There has been an increase in case numbers in Holgate East.
Otherwise most other neighbourhoods are stable. Only 2 neighbourhoods now have infection rates above the national average.
Infection rates have risen in the neighbouring Selby and Harrogate areas.
Vaccinations
Tests
4600 PCR tests were conducted during the week ending 21st March
Of these, 1.3% were positive. That is a lower rate than the 1.4% recorded the previous day
2930 “lateral flow” tests were also conducted on 25th March
Council commentary
The York Council has updated its commentary on “open data” about the pandemic. It is reproduced below for ease of reference
The data is accurate as at 8.00 a.m. on Friday 26.03.21. Some narrative for the data covering the latest period is provided here below:
People with Covid Symptoms
• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 22.3.21 there had been 56 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 25.3.21, the Covid Symptom App estimates 164 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 4,428 people). The peak rate was 1,283 on 7.1.21.
Diagnosed cases
• As at 25.3.21 York has had 12,160 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 5,774 per 100,000 of population. The cumulative rate in York is below the national (6,713) and regional (6,850) 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 (22.3.21) is Amber.
• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 17.3.21 to 23.3.21 in York is 32.3 (using data published on Gov.uk on 25.3.21).
• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 14.3.21 to 20.3.21 was 29.9. The national and regional averages at this date were 55.5 and 109.1 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 25.3.21).
• York is currently ranked 33rd 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 13.3.21.to 19.3.21, 2 wards have seen a statistically significant fall in their rate compared with the 7 day period 6.3.21 to 12.3.21 (Huntington & New Earswick and Fishergate). The remaining wards have shown no significant change. Ward rates currently vary from 0 to 108.3 per 100,000. 6 wards had zero cases in the latest period.
• The rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 14.3.21 to 20.3.21 for people aged 60+ in York was 4.0. The national and regional averages were 21.1 and 34.7 respectively.
• As at 23.3.21, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 PCR tests only) was 1.58%. The national and regional averages are 2.6% and 5.2% respectively.
• As at 23.3.21 the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 Lateral Flow Tests only) was 0.10%. The national and regional averages are 0.1% and 0.3% respectively.
• As at 23.3.21 the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 1 tests only) was 1.4%. The national average is 1.1%.
• As at 19.3.21 York University reported 6 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 15.3.21 York St. John reported 1 individual 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 11,301 confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 10,191 of the cases have been completed (90.2%). 26,290 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 19,909 of these have been completed (75.7%). Source: PHE Report.
• Local Tracing of Cases: Between 22.10.20 and 19.3.21, 1,019 referrals had been actioned by the local contact tracing service. Of the referrals actioned, 670 (65.8%) were successful and 349 (34.2%) were unable to be reached via phone or home visit, but guidance leaflets were posted where possible.
Cases in Residential Care Settings
• As at 25.3.21 there was 1 care home 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 25.2.21 (1 home).
Cases amongst School Aged Children
• In the 7 days up to 22.3.21 there were 16 children of primary and secondary school age who tested positive across 11 schools.
COVID Bed Occupancy in York Hospital
• As at 23.3.21 there were 14 confirmed Covid-19 patients in General and Acute beds. The peak number was 157 on 19.1.21.
• As at 23.3.21 there were 4 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 23.3.21 there had been 0 patients admitted with suspected Covid-19 and 0 with confirmed Covid-19 in the previous 24 hours.
• As at 23.3.21 there had been 1 confirmed patient discharged with COVID-19 in last 24 hours.
• Between 15.3.21 and 21.3.21, 8 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 19.3.21 was estimated to be in the range 0.7 to 0.9. The previous estimate was (0.7 to 0.9) on 12.3.21.
Total Vaccinations
• As at 24.3.21 a total of 87,887 CYC residents have had the first dose of the vaccine. This represents 41.7% of the estimated total population of York and 50.5% of the estimated adult (18+) population of York.
• As at 24.3.21 a total of 7,441 CYC residents have had both doses of the vaccine. This represents 3.5% of the estimated total population of York and 4.3% 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 10: 6.3.21 to 12.3.21) 3 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents. In weeks 7, 8 and 9 there had been 19, 6 and 6 deaths respectively.
• ONS Cumulative data: Since the start of the pandemic, for deaths occurring up to 12th March 2021 and registered up to 20th March 2021, 383 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (223 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 181.5 which is lower than the national average of 226.1
• Local Registrar data (Cumulative): Since the start of the pandemic (using data for deaths occurring up to 10.3.21), a cumulative total of 367 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 (80.1% of those who died in York were aged 75+ compared with 73.3% nationally). 176 of the 367 were male (48.0%), less than the national average (54.3%).
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 byclicking 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.
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
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.
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.
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
The have been no more COVID-19 hospital deaths announced today.
Test results
Eight additional positive test results today. Brings cumulative total to 12,197
The number of cases drops by eleven from 81 to 70.
Rate /100k population has fallen to 33.24. A small further reduction is expected before the rate stabilises for a couple of days early next week.
Infection rates at county and regional level still increasing
Neighbourhoods
Only one neighbourhood now with more than 5 cases (Heworth South/The Groves). 20 areas now below national infection rate.
Vaccinations
A record number of vaccinations were completed yesterday. 50% of the adult population has now been immunised
Tests
3986 PCR tests were completed during the week ending 15th March 2021
Of these, 1.3% were positive. That is less than the 1.4% positivity rate recorded on the previous day
1768 “lateral flow” tests were also completed on the 19th March
“Stay safe and follow the guidance this weekend”
The York Council issued the following statement yesterday (Friday)
As the weekend begins, city leaders are thanking residents for their continued efforts to stop the spread of Coronavirus.
They are also asking everyone to continue to follow the current Public Health guidance and lockdown restrictions to keep our loved ones safe.
The latest figures for vaccination numbers, and case numbers, in York are:
As at 17.3.21, 79,375 CYC residents had received the first dose and 5,724 had received both doses.
The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 7.3.21 to 13.3.21 was 42.3. The national and regional averages at this date were 58.3 and 107.6 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 18.3.21).
With case numbers in the city decreasing, many residents will be looking forward to the planned changes in the roadmap plan, and the lifting of some of the current restrictions. To stop the spread of the virus, and keep the people of York safe, it is essential that the current guidance is followed.
These include:
Stay local and do not travel outside of your local area unless for essential reasons
Wash your hands, wear a face covering and maintain a 2m distance from others
You can enjoy your daily exercise as a household, but do not mix with people outside your support bubble
Residents looking for ways to enjoy the city safely with their household or alone with one person they do not live with, can visit the iTravel website and download a family-friendly illustrated map in the new Exploring York walking maps collection from their website.
Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council said:
It is encouraging to see the number of residents who have had their first dose of the vaccine.
“The Nimbuscare-led vaccination site has now administered over 100,000 jabs and I want to pay tribute to all the volunteers and staff who have made this possible. We are aware though that some people are yet to have their first jab and who are eligible. The Council and its partners are looking at ways we can help our communities to help those eligible to get the vaccine as soon as they can.”
“Whilst many of us are looking forward to a time where we can see our friends and families safely, it is more important than ever that we continue to follow the rules. As we get closer to potential milestones in the Government’s Roadmap, we must not be complacent and continue to follow public health guidance to stop the spread of the virus. If we continue to working together in this effort, we can expect to safely enjoy our city once again.”
Sharon Stoltz, Director for Public Health said:
We continue to be grateful for the efforts of everyone in stopping the spread of the virus. Our collective efforts are making a difference and saving lives, so let’s keep going.
“Thanks too must go to everyone having the vaccine and those making it possible. Each jab in the arm takes us closer to where we want to get to. We can’t change our behaviours just yet though. Whilst having the vaccine greatly reduces the risk of serious illness from Coronavirus, people can still catch and spread the virus. Hands, Face, Space remains vital as ever for us all.”
“We are still keen to see cases fall further, we cannot afford to be complacent yet so please keep going with Hands, Face, Space. Every time you wear a face covering or video call a friend or family member has an impact so thank you. I would strongly encourage anyone eligible to take up the offer of regular symptom-free testing, or carry out home testing, as an important way to stop the spread of the virus.”
Two additional hospital deaths have been announced by the York Hospital Trust today. One occurred on Tuesday and one on Wednesday
Test Results
Five positive test results today bringing the cumulative total to 12,099.
The number of cases in the City has fallen by 8 from 89 to 81. Further reductions are in the pipeline
The rate /100k population figure has fallen to 38.46. This is the lowest seen in the City since 19th September 2021
The infection rate is clearly now following a different trajectory from that seen when restrictions were eased at the end of Lockdown 2. The real test will come on 12th April when a more general easing of restrictions are expected
Infection rates are continuing to rise at North Yorkshire and Yorkshire levels. They are stable at a national level.
Neighbourhoods
Good news today as, for the first time since last summer, no York neighbourhood has an infection rate above 100.
Vaccinations
Good progress with vaccinations
Tests
3977 PCR tests were conducted during the week ending 14th March 2021
The positivity rate was 1.4% – the same as the previous day.
3100 “lateral flow” tests were also conducted on 18th March 2021
Hospitals
The number of COVID-19 patients being treated by the York Hospital Trust has fallen to 30. Four are in intensive care. 2069 patients have been treated for coronavirus since the start of the pandemic and subsequently discharged from hospital.
Council commentary
The York Council has updated its commentaryon the pandemic
It is reproduced below
The data is accurate as at 8.00 a.m. on Friday 19.03.21. Some narrative for the data covering the latest period is provided here below:
People with Covid Symptoms
• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 15.3.21 there had been 74 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 18.3.21, the Covid Symptom App estimates 87.3 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 4,459 people). The peak rate was 1,283 on 7.1.21.
Diagnosed cases
• As at 18.3.21 York has had 12,094 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 5,742 per 100,000 of population. The cumulative rate in York is below the national (6,656) and regional (6,735) 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 (15.3.21) is Green.
• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 10.3.21 to 16.3.21 in York is 31.8 (using data published on Gov.uk on 18.3.21).
• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 7.3.21 to 13.3.21 was 42.3. The national and regional averages at this date were 58.3 and 107.6 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 18.3.21).
• York is currently ranked 61st 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 6.3.21.to 12.3.21, 1 ward in York (Micklegate) has seen a statistically significant fall in rates compared with the 7 day period 27.2.21 to 5.3.21. 2 wards (Dringhouses and Woodthorpe and Hull Road) have seen a significant rise in rates. For the remaining wards there has been no significant change in rates.
• The rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 7.3.21 to 13.3.21 for people aged 60+ in York was 6.1. The national and regional averages were 28.0 and 41.9 respectively.
• As at 15.3.21, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 PCR tests only) was 1.28%. The national and regional averages are 2.6% and 5.1% respectively.
• As at 15.3.21 the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 Lateral Flow Tests only) was 0.16%. The national and regional averages are 0.1% and 0.2% respectively.
• As at 16.3.21 the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 1 tests only) was 0.9%. The national average is 1.4%.
• As at 18.3.21 York University reported 10 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 15.3.21 York St. John reported 1 individual 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 11,229 confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 10,126 of the cases have been completed (90.2%). 26,095 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 19,760 of these have been completed (75.7%). Source: PHE Report.
• Local Tracing of Cases: Between 22.10.20 and 12.3.21, 981 referrals had been actioned by the local contact tracing service. Of the referrals actioned, 632 (64.4%) were successful and 349 (35.6%) were unable to be reached via phone or home visit, but guidance leaflets were posted where possible.
Cases in Residential Care Settings
• As at 18.3.21 there was 1 care home 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 25.2.21 (1 home).
Cases amongst School Aged Children
• In the 7 days up to 15.3.21 there were 22 children of primary and secondary school age who tested positive across 10 schools.
COVID Bed Occupancy in York Hospital
• As at 17.3.21 there were 17 confirmed Covid-19 patients in General and Acute beds. The peak number was 157 on 19.1.21.
• As at 17.3.21 there were 5 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 17.3.21 there had been 0 patients admitted with suspected Covid-19 and 0 with confirmed Covid-19 in the previous 24 hours.
• As at 17.3.21 there had been 1 confirmed patient discharged with COVID-19 in last 24 hours.
Covid Patients (CYC Residents) discharged from York Hospital
• Between 8.3.21 and 14.3.21, 9 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 12.3.21 was estimated to be in the range 0.7 to 0.9. The previous estimate was (0.7 to 1.0) on 5.3.21.
Total Vaccinations
• As at 17.3.21 79,375 CYC residents had received the first dose and 5,724 had received both doses. 37.7% of the total estimated population of York (210,618*) had therefore received the first dose.
• As at 17.3.21 21.88M In people in England had received the first dose and 1.31M had received both doses. 38.9% of the total estimated population of England (56,286,961*) had therefore received the first dose.
*using Mid-Year 2019 population estimates
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 9: 27.2.21 to 5.3.21) 4 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents. In weeks 6, 7 and 8 there had been 11, 19 and 6 deaths respectively.
• ONS Cumulative data: Since the start of the pandemic, for deaths occurring up to 5th March 2021 and registered up to 13th March 2021, 378 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (220 in hospital, 129 in care homes, 21 at home and 8 in a hospice). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 179.5 which is lower than the national average of 223.5
• Local Registrar data (Cumulative): Since the start of the pandemic (using data for deaths occurring up to 10.3.21), a cumulative total of 365 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 (80.3% of those who died in York were aged 75+ compared with 73.4% nationally). 174 of the 365 were male (47.7%), less than the national average (54.3%).
Council plans to “safely reopen city”
The Council has issued the following statement in advance of a general reopening of facilities including retail on 12th April. More clarity is needed on the availability of testing services.
With infection rates in the rest of the region currently higher than in York, the Council must make representations about what – if any – recreational travel will be permitted.
There are similar questions to be answered by the Universities about their timetable for increased “on campus” learning.
“With the publication of the roadmap to recovery, the City of York Council has started planning to safely reopen the city.
In doing this, the Council will focus on prioritising the health and wellbeing of the residents of York, and supporting the economic recovery of the city.
Public Health guidance will play a key role in all decisions made for the future of the city and the council focus is on protecting residents against the immediate threat of coronavirus.
Learning from reopening activities that took place during summer 2020, when the city enjoyed a large number of visitors and relatively low number of cases, together with recognising challenges from Christmas and that reopening in 2021 is taking place in a different environment, where testing and vaccinations is more the norm.”
Keith Aspden, Leader of the Council, said:
We are working with businesses and organisations across the city to make sure that when the time comes, residents have the confidence to enjoy our city centre safely.
The health and wellbeing of residents and businesses is our immediate focus, and we look forward to welcoming visitors back to our beautiful city once restrictions are lifted. We know that York has a lot to offer, and our amazing range of independent businesses are working hard to ensure that their customers can look forward to safe services at their next visit.”
Extra measures introduced in the city will include:
The installation of temporary public toilets in the city centre
Extending the Covid Support Marshalls programme until the end of June
Submitting planning applications required for temporary managed outdoor spaces
Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health, said:
Whilst many people will be looking forward to the easing of restrictions we must all remember that COVID-19 remains a part of our lives.
“We want to make sure that York is a safe city for all our residents to enjoy, and we need the support of residents and communities to make that happen. We are working closely with the Public Health England Behavioural science team to iteratively improve how we can keep residents, staff and visitors safe.
“For now we must carry on with ‘hands, face, space’, comply with the COVID-Secure measures that remain in place, meet outdoors when we can and keep letting fresh air in. We should get tested when needed and get vaccinated when offered. If we all continue to play our part, we will be that bit closer to a future that is more familiar.”
To help businesses safely manage outside space and better understand how to keep their consumers and staff safe by prompting COVID-19 safe behaviours, the council are working with Public Health England’s behavioural insight team in the run up to reopening the city.
They will be hosting a free webinar on Thursday 25 March, where the Public Health team will answer questions from businesses. Tickets can be booked online.
Plans to meet York’s post-pandemic skills needs to be considered
Plans to address the skills and training needs of York residents and businesses as they recover from the covid-19 pandemic will be discussed next week at a Decision Session for the Executive Member for Economy and Strategic Planning (23 March).
Cllr Andrew Waller will be asked to endorse 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. The plan builds on a wide range of skills support that has been developed since the early stages of the first lockdown. Skills and education partners across the city have been working together to help people through change; aligning, adapting and communicating the support available to both individuals and businesses.
Skills for Employment in York sets out five shared commitments: • York works – skills support for individuals Supporting those entering, re-entering or displaced from the workforce to re-train or upskill and connect them with good jobs in sustainable and growth sectors. • Empowered employers – skills support for businesses Supporting businesses of all sizes to access national, regional and local skills provision to help them plan, diversify and grow. • Pioneering provision – productive partnerships Working in partnership to make the most of national, regional and local initiatives and adapt local skills provision in response to emerging needs. • Education to employment and self-employment – York’s pipeline Supporting positive progressions for all by preparing those transitioning from education or re-entering the world of work for a culture of lifelong learning and entrepreneurship. • York shares – communicating the offer Developing a coherent and effective marketing and communications strategy to ensure information advice and guidance is provided at the point of need in a timely and effective way.
Cllr Andrew Waller, Executive Member for Economy and Strategic Planning, said: The economic impact of the pandemic is being felt across many sectors in the city, and some have been severely hit, leading to job losses.
“As York’s employment changes it is vital that support and training is available to help individuals who need it. This includes those joining the workforce from school or college, or who are older and have lost their job and are looking to find a new career. Businesses are looking to get ready for new opportunities, especially with cleaner greener jobs, and we need to make sure the local workforce has the skills needed for this.
“The one year plan is part of a wider ten year strategy which aims to ensure that York, its residents and businesses, are well placed to recover from the impact of the pandemic. “I’d like to thank the city’s Skills and Employment Board for developing the one year plan, and their ongoing work on the ten year skills strategy. Their hard work engaging with businesses, council and skills providers underlines the commitment of partners across the city to supporting York’s future skills and training needs. “
There have been no further hospital deaths announced today
Test Results
Thirteen new positive test results have been recorded today bringing the cumulative total to 12,094.
The number of cases in the City has fallen by 11 from 100 yesterday to 89 today.
The rate /100k population figure has fallen to 42.26. This the lowest figure that we have since 21st September 2020. The rate is expected to fall again tomorrow when it may dip below 40.
Case rates in York have now fallen below those that can be found in North Yorkshire again. Rates at regional and national level are stable
Neighbourhoods
Only one neighbourhood now has an infection rate of over 100 (Strensall)
9 neighbourhoods now have fewer than 3 cases in each. This includes Westfield/Chapelfields/ Foxwood North which has recorded its lowest rate since last summer.
Vaccinations
95% of over 60’s living in York have now been vaccinated. There is little difference in rates at neighbourhood level with the lowest being 80% at Heslington. Fulford and the University (which also now has a very low infection rate).
We understand that the Council will be stepping up its attempts to contact those who have not responded to offers of immunisation jabs.
The inoculators are making good progress with the 50 age groups and seem to be on course to meet their Easter target of offering vaccinations to all over 50’s living in York.
It is thought that vaccination rates for under 50’s may be slower during April as a result of drug shortages.
UK data not available until Friday
Hospitals
The number of COVID-19 cases being treated by the York Hospital Trust has fallen to 34. Five are now being treated in intensive care. At its peak, the Trust was treating 242 patients. 2065 patients have been treated and discharged since the start of the pandemic
Tests
4021 PCR test were carried out in York during the week ending 13th March 2021
Of these 1.4% were positive. This represents an improvement on the 1.5% which were positive on the previous day.
4947 “lateral flow” tests were also carried out on 17th March
Police Coronavirus response: No time to let-up as we head towards Easter holidays
Superintendent Mike Walker (pictured below) is leading North Yorkshire Police’s response to the pandemic and he chairs the multi-agency North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum. These are his comments about the past week’s (8-14 March 2021) Covid-19-related issues and the policing arrangements for Easter time…
“Together with our partner agencies and the people of York and North Yorkshire, it is imperative that we maintain the collective effort to reduce the infection rate as low as possible while the vaccination programme is rolled-out across the population.
“We can all see that better times are on the horizon, that’s why we must keep going and not allow all the hard work and sacrifice to be undone through complacency.
“We all must keep adhering to the health protection regulations around travel and gatherings, maintaining social distance, wearing face coverings in shops and on public transport, and keeping our hands as clean as possible.
“From a policing point of view, we will continue to play our part in tackling the public health crisis as we head towards the Easter holidays.
“Each district is on with preparing patrol plans to ensure there are sufficient resources to provide reassurance and continue our ‘4 Es’ approach – to engage with the public, explain the regulations, encourage compliance, and enforce if there is no other way of dealing with breaches.
“The patrol plans will obviously reflect any changes in legislation post 29 March as part of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown.
“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.
“Also, we expect normal policing demand to increase as the regulations are further relaxed, therefore North Yorkshire Police will utilise the Government’s surge funding provided to ensure we can respond to the public as they would expect.”
Latest enforcement data
During the past seven days (8-14 March 2021) we have issued 102Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) – the previous week’s total was 210.
This takes the total to 1,662 FPNs during the third lockdown, and 3,555 FPNs since the first lockdown on March 2020.
54 were issued to local people and 48 were issued to visitors
40 issued for being outside place of living
10 for outdoor gatherings
29 for indoor gatherings
2 for obstruct/contravene/fail to close business
20 for gathering of more than 15
Broken down into districts, the number of FPNs issues are as follows:
Craven – 3
Hambleton – 15
Harrogate – 12
Richmond – 2
Ryedale – 5
Scarborough – 50
Selby – 7
York – 8
Notable recent breaches
Scarborough was again the location for the most indoor gatherings with 18 FPNs issued. There were also two separate indoor gatherings in the town over the weekend consisting of more than 15 people – this resulted in 20 FPNs being issued. One occurred at a flat on Pavilion Square following a report of a party at 10.45pm on Saturday (13 March).
Just after 5pm on Saturday, an online report was made to the police that a group of men from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, were drinking together in a hot tub at a lodge in the York area. When officers arrived they initially claimed they were work colleagues staying together in digs, but this proved not to be the case and the five men were issued with FPNs.
At 4.50am on Monday (15 March), a VW Polo car was stopped by officers as it was travelling east on the A64 at Bilbrough. The four occupants from Leeds, two men and two women aged in their late teens and early 20s, states that they were going somewhere to watch the sun rise. They each headed home with FPNs for being outside their place of living.
Also, for being outside their place of living, two men from Hessle, Hull, were issued with FPNs when police spotted their car at the St James Retail Park at Knaresborough at 12.45am on Monday (15 March). They said they were out for a drive to get a McDonald’s meal.
