Coronavirus York updates; 16th October 2020

Deaths and test results

One additional death has been reported by the York Hospital Trust

There have been 75 (SEVENTY FIVE) additional positive test results announced today bringing the cumulative total to 2474

The rate per 100,000 population peaked at 276.34 on Monday

York will become a HIGH tier area with effect from midnight. This involves several additional restrictions including a controls on inter-family mingling.

There have been some suggestions that the additional restrictions should only have been applied to neighbourhoods with high case numbers. However, as well as Heslington, this would have affected Tang Hall and the City centre which has the second highest number of cases. Many hospitality businesses are located in the City centre and so would have been caught by the tighter restrictions whichever option was adopted.

The individual neighbourhood case numbers haven’t been published yet. However the latest map showing the distribution of cases continues to show Heslington/University as by far the worst affected area in the city

Council updates its narrative on Pandemic

The York Council has updated its commentary on the COVID crisis on open data. It is reproduced below

he data is accurate as at 8.00 a.m. on Friday 16.10.20. Some narrative for the data covering the latest period is provided here below:

People with Covid Symptoms

• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 12.10.20 there had been 400 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 15.10.20, the Covid Symptom App estimates 856.3 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 5,258 people). The peak estimated rate was 1,029.4 on 29.9.20.

Diagnosed cases (Pillar 1&2 combined)

• As at 15.10.20 York has had 2,399 cases, a rate of 1139 per 100,000 of population. The rate in York is above the national average (1,017.4) but below the regional average (1,463.5) average.

• 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 (12.10.20) is Red.

• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 7.10.20 to 13.10.20 in York is 239.3. (Using data published on Gov.uk on 15.10.20).

• The latest local “validated” 7 day rate for York for the period 3.10.20 to 9.10.20 was 260.2. The national and regional averages at this date were 159.6 and 263.0 respectively ( PHE Centre Daily COVID-19 Report 15.10.20).

• As at 12.10.20, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 only) was 15.66% (867 positives out of 5,535 tests). The national and regional averages are 8% and 11.6 % respectively. The number of Pillar 2 tests being carried out in York is increasing.

• The Fulford, Heslington and University MSOA is in the highest 5% in the Yorkshire and Humber Region for new cases per 100,000 in the seven day period up to 9.10.20. Other MSOAs in the region (e.g. Leeds, Bradford, and Sheffield) which contain university premises within their boundaries are also on this list.

• As at 14.10.20 York University reported 288 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test.

• As at 13.10.20 York St. John reported 74 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test.

Contact Tracing

• Since 28.5.20 a total of 1,646 laboratory confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 1,276 of the cases have been engaged. 5,000 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 3,506 of these have been traced.

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 2nd October 2020 and registered up to 10th October 2020, 172 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (83 in hospital, 77 in care homes, 9 at home and 3 in a hospice. The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 81.66 which is lower than the national average of 89.62. The most recent death reported for a York resident was in week 38 (12 to 18 September).

• ‘Excess’ deaths (ONS). In week 40 (26 Sept to 2 Oct), 30 deaths occurred for York residents, which is 1 fewer than the average weekly number for 2014-18. Over the last 19 weeks the total number of deaths in York has been 51 fewer than the average for the equivalent weeks in 2014-18.

• Local Registrar data: In the weekly data received on 12.10.20 (for deaths occurring up to 7.10.20), a cumulative total of 164 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 82.6, with an age range of 53-104. The age profile of those dying in York is slightly older than the national average. 87 of the 164 were male (53%), slightly less than the national average (55.1%). 81 of the deaths occurred in hospital and 83 were community deaths (e.g. at home or in a care home or hospice). 72 people (43.9%) died in nursing /care homes (the national average is 29.3%). In addition 13 people (7.9%) who normally resided in nursing/care homes in the CYC area, died in hospital. The most recent death for CYC resident occurred on 7.10.20.

Data on deaths occurring in hospital are shown below. Deaths are initially reported for York NHS Foundation Trust which includes Scarborough Hospital and the further breakdown by site can be delayed. From local registrar data, 57.7% of COVID-19 deaths occurring at York Hospital have been CYC residents. (NB NHS Trusts record deaths following a positive covid-19 test (within 28 days) whereas ONS record deaths where covid-19 in mentioned on the death certificate so the totals are not the same).

• Deaths at York Hospital: As at 15.10.20, 139 deaths (awaiting confirmation of breakdown by hospital site) where the person had tested positive for COVID-19 and were being cared for at York Hospital have been reported. 220 deaths have been reported by the wider York NHS Trust.

Deep frustration over COVID fact void

Local Conservative MP Julian Study has joined the increasing clamour for the authorities to improve the breadth and timeliness of the COVID stats being made available to York residents.

He rightly pointed out in the House of Commons yesterday that many of the figures, which drove the City into a “High” level of restrictions, have not been published.

The concern reflects the views of many residents as well as the York Council.

The Council has now made a list available of the information that it publishes on a regular basis.

Information which the York Council says it make public

It was responding to a suggestion that some additional numbers should be publicly available.

We identified key information which was needed to monitor progress daily.

There are several gaps including the percentage of tests undertaken which are positive (the information is available only for Pillar Two tests and is published by the government 2 weeks in arrears).

Other gaps include

1. The demographics of current cases in City (e.g. by age group, by ward)

2. Test and trace results including the number of tests completed by channel (Pillar 1, Poppleton, Heslington, postal etc.), positivity, contracts traced, contacts still to be traced, linkages to workplaces, schools, universities etc

3. Hospital admissions, bed occupancy, ICU occupancy and discharges

The Council says that it doesn’t get this information from government so can’t publish it.

It also admits that there is a lot of information that it does get but currently chooses not to add to the “open data” web site (see table).

Information available but not published. Some stats are available from national sources (but delayed)

Not surprisingly there are now calls for more transparency.

In 2020 the authorities should be able to provide “real time” updates.

Against the background of a rapidly changing situation, the publication of information “two weeks in arrears” is simply unacceptable.

Alert level tier national map

Useful map of COVID restrictions in a rapidly changing world

Coronvirus York updates; 15th October 2020

Deaths and test results

Another York Hospital Trust death was announced today

There were 71 (SEVENTY ONE) additional positive test results announced today. This brings the total to 2399. 1424 of these have occurred since the start of the second wave of infections on 1st September.

The highest rate per 100,000 head of population happened on Monday when the figure reached 274.44

The worst affected neighbourhood is Heslington/University which has had 119 positive test results during the last 7 days.

The least affected area has been Bishopthorpe/Copmanthorpe with 7 cases.

The government has published updated test and trace stats covering the period between 30th September and 7th October. Nearly 1 in 5 of the people who were tested in York were found to have the virus. The positivity rate is continuing to increase.

The government claims that it has traced 67% of contacts in the City since test & trace started in May. The York Council has announced plans to set up its own contact tracing service. It is expected to be operational next week.

York subject to Tier 2 restrictions

The City is to be added to the areas with “Tier 2” restrictions. Given the recent increase in case numbers in parts of the City, the decision is not unexpected.

The restrictions are effective from 00:01 this Saturday morning

Tier 2 restrictions will mean

All businesses and venues can continue to operate, in a Covid-secure manner, other than those that remain closed in law, such as nightclubs and adult entertainment venues
Certain businesses selling food or drink on their premises are required to close between 10pm and 5am. Businesses and venues selling food for consumption off the premises can continue to do so after 10pm as long as this is through delivery service, click-and-collect or drive-thru
Schools, universities and places of worship remain open
Weddings and funerals can go ahead with restrictions on the number of attendees
Organised indoor sport and exercise classes can continue to take place, provided the Rule of Six is followed
The “Rule of Six” will continue to apply outdoors and in private gardens
People must not meet with anybody outside their household or support bubble in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place
People should aim to reduce the number of journeys they make where possible. If they need to travel, they should walk or cycle where possible, or to plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes on public transport

Some may feel that the move comes too late and should include further restrictions on travel, the closure of more leisure venues, schools returning to the arrangements seen in the Spring with other educational facilities being quarantined.

Coronavirus York updates; 14th October 2020

Deaths and test results

138 (ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY EIGHT) new cases were announced today. That is the largest single day announcement that we have had. It brings the total to 2328.

The seven day, per 100k population, case figure reached 266.84 on Saturday.

The case numbers over the last 7 days at Heslington/University have reached 100.

To put that into context, the figure is twice the total number of cases that we saw in the whole of the City during the month of August.

The figures may lead to calls for stricter quarantining arrangements on the campus, in student accommodation and in leisure activities.

There have been no additional deaths at the York hospital.

Coronavirus York updates; 13th October 2020

Deaths and test results

95 (NINETY FIVE) additional positive test results were announced today, bringing the cumulative total up to 2190.

The largest, individual day, positive test count number was 103 which occurred last Wednesday.

The cases per 100,000 population figure peaked at 261.15 on Thursday.

The neighbourhood with the largest number of positive test results is still Heslington/University which currently has 78 cases. This is down from the peak of 88 which was reported yesterday. The university says that it was aware of 247 individuals within the university community who were currently self-isolating because they had had a positive Covid-19 test.

The area with the fewest cases is Dunnington/Elvington/Wheldrake (6)

Some pupils at the Haxby Road and Robert Wilkinson schools in the City are understood to be self-isolating. More than 150 children at the two schools are affected

No further hospital deaths in York. There have, however, been 81 deaths announced in other parts of the country.

Leisure grants

The government has announced that it will make the following grants to cultural organisations in the City

York Museums Trust	£850,000
Yorkshire Air Museum and Allied Air Forces Memorial	£312,531
York Citizen’s Theatre Trust (Theatre Royal)	£236,522
Three Little Birds LLP (The Crescent)	£108,668
Victoria Vaults	£92,244
Fast Entertainment Ltd (Fulford Arms)	£82,584
The Quilters’ Guild of the British Isles	£78,600
The York Early Music Foundation	£50,000

Coronavirus York updates; 12th October 2020

No change to York alert level following PMs announcement

The PM has announced a three tier system of restrictions.

Against expectations, York is still to be classified as a “medium risk” area with the current set of restrictions continuing to apply.

The new three-tier system on local lockdowns is:

TIER 1 Medium : Rule of Six and 10pm curfew – Includes York

TIER 2: High: All indoor household mixing banned but permitted outdoors including in private gardens – Includes Nottinghamshire, East & West Cheshire and a small area of High Peak

TIER 3: Very High: All household mixing banned and pubs/bars closed along with gyms, leisure centres, betting shops and casinos. – Liverpool city region will be placed in the ‘very high’ risk category of the new system from Wednesday

What medium level means for you:

Social contact

The Rule of 6 continues to apply
Childcare bubbles (for under-15s/years 9 and 10) children (or vulnerable adults) where necessary for caring purposes (to be a consistent childcare relationship, not for playdates).
Up to 15 people at wedding, civil partnership ceremonies and ‘significant event’ gatherings
Up to 30 people can attend funerals
No mass events for example sports events and pilot performances
Organised sport is only allowed outdoors
Visiting indoor hospitality/leisure/retail settings under rule of 6

Businesses

Business in sectors which are permitted to open by law can remain so providing they meet Covid19-Secure guidance.
All workers in indoor hospitality must wear face coverings and/or work behind screens (chefs, waiting staff, etc.). Customers must also wear face coverings, apart from when seated
Leisure and entertainment venue must be closed between 10pm and 5am, but can continue delivery after 10pm.
Food and drink venues will be table service only.
More stringent Covid19 secure guidance and enforcement. Where possible, WFH should be encouraged.
For the latest government guidance for your business go to gov.uk/coronavirus

Deaths and test results

THREE more deaths in the York Hospital Trust area announced today. 2 occurred on Saturday and 1 last Friday. That brings the second wave death toll to 5 in little over a week.

There have been 63 (SIXTY THREE) additional positive test results announced today bringing the cumulative total number of cases in the City to 2095

The highest single day number of new cases occurred last Wednesday when 94 positive tests were carried out.

Although the rolling 7 day average number of new cases dropped to 66.14 last Friday it is too soon to say whether this represents a new trend.

The largest number of cases continues to be recorded in the Heslington/University neighbourhood (88 cases).

The media are reporting that at the University of York, there were 220 individuals self isolating due to a positive Covid-19 test on Monday.

At York St John University there were 67 people self isolating due to a positive test on Monday.

The smallest number (6) occurred in the Dunnington/Elvington neighbourhood.

Q & A sessions

This week residents are invited to join a Live Coronavirus Q&A where city leaders will be discussing the latest public health updates and answer questions.

Tuesday 13 October, 6-7pm – Public Health Update, including with Cllr Keith Aspden and director of public health, Sharon Stoltz.

Head over to our Facebook page to watch them live. Ask your questions by commenting live or email your question ahead of time to YourQuestions@york.gov.uk and specify which live Q&A your question relates to.

We also have regular resident email updates, sign up at https://www.york.gov.uk/form/EmailUpdates

Daily COVID case data for York is available on our social media accounts: Follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

City of York Council Public Health Update

City leaders have today thanked York residents and urged everyone to continue working together to protect the people and places we love.

The Government has today outlined a new three-tier system for restrictions, split between ‘medium’, ‘high’ and ‘very high’ levels. The new system has been introduced in an effort to tackle the rising number of Covid-19 infections nationally.

Although it has not been officially confirmed by the Government, it is understood that York will remain at the medium level, meaning that there will be no additional restrictions, beyond the current national guidance, to be introduced for York’s residents and businesses.

However, it is important to underline that York’s infection rate is rising significantly and the Council continues to work with partners across the city to address this. City leaders have urged everyone to play their part to slow the spread of the virus and to avoid stricter restrictions in the future. Residents and visitors are being urged to follow good public health measures and remember Hands, Face, Space at all times, to protect those we love and keep the places we enjoy open.

The provisional rate for the last seven days of new Covid cases for every 100,000 people in York is 207.2. This is higher than the national average of 133.8, but lower than the regional average of 231.9.

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

“Whilst it is welcome the early indications that no further restrictions are to be put in place in York, we must remain vigilant and work together to keep our city safe and open.”

“It is thanks to our collective effort that we can continue to keep the places we love open. However, as the number of cases continue to rise in York and across the country, we must not rest on our laurels and continue to work together to protect jobs, keep our friends and family safe and keep the places we love open.

“This year has been exceptionally difficult for many, and we are grateful to residents and businesses across the city who continue to do their bit in protecting our city. Despite the challenges of this year, York has demonstrated what it does best − pulling together and supporting each other. It is crucial that we continue in this spirit and work together over the coming weeks and months.”

Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health, said:

“This is welcome news, but it does not mean we can relax.

“We continue to closely monitor the data to track the spread of the virus as quickly as possible. We’re seeing the virus spread mainly through social contact and households mixing indoors and not social distancing.

“We know how hard it is to stay away but the best way to show love at the moment is to keep your loved ones safe by practicing Hands. Face. Space. We must continue to wash our hands regularly, observe social distancing and wear face coverings in busy places.

“Please make sure you are familiar with the symptoms, self-isolate if you show any of them, and book a test straight away.”

Keep informed

This week residents are invited to join a Live Coronavirus Q&A where city leaders will be discussing the latest public health updates and answer questions.

Tuesday 13 October, 6-7pm – Public Health Update, including with Cllr Keith Aspden and director of public health, Sharon Stoltz.

We also have regular resident email updates, sign up at https://www.york.gov.uk/form/EmailUpdates

Daily COVID case data for York is available on our social media accounts: Follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

Coronavirus York updates; 11th October 2020

Deaths and test results

An unwelcome milestone today with the total number of cases in the City soaring to over 2000 following the announcement of 68 (SIXTY EIGHT) positive test results today.

This means the the number of cases has more than doubled since the 1000 case milestone, which happened as recently as 5th September.

The cases per 100,000 population figure dropped slightly last Thursday to 235.98. This is still higher than the national average.

Last Wednesday saw the largest single day number of positive test results in York at 86.

The neighbourhood with by far the largest number of cases is the University/Heslington/Fulford where there are 82. This is followed by Tang Hall with 40.

By comparison, there are comparatively few cases in much of the west of the City with Bishopthorpe/Copmanthorpe recording only 7 cases. There has been a similar low number recorded in Huntington.

Coronavirus York updates; 10th October 2020

Deaths and test results

80 (EIGHTY) additional positive test results have been announced bringing the total number of cases recorded in the City to 1964.

There have been no further hospital deaths.

A new peak of 232.18 cases per 100,000 head of population was recorded on Wednesday .

Heslington remains the neighbourhood with the largest number of cases during the last 7 days. Currently it has 75 positive test results. The next highest is neighbouring Tang Hall with 36 cases.

Authorities appeal; “Keep the city safe and stop the spread”

Following an increase in cases of Coronavirus across the country, the Council are urging residents to play their part in stopping the spread of the virus.

As of today (9 October) the York 7 day rate for COVID-19 cases was at 203.69 per 100,000. The previous verified 7 day rate comes from 2 October and was 161 cases per 100,000. This compares to the national average of 109.3 and regional average of 190.1 for the same date.

Residents and visitors to the city are being urged to follow good public health measures and remember Hands, Face, Space at all times.

Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council and Chair of the Outbreak Management Advisory Board said:

“Through our collective effort we have been able to keep our city safe and open, however, as cases increase across the country, now more than ever we must focus on protecting our family, friends and neighbours from the virus.

“We understand that this remains a difficult time for many people, but we must continue in these efforts to protect one another and keep the places we love in the city open.

“Whilst we continue working with our excellent public health team and partners to help protect businesses and residents, it is now utterly crucial for us all to work together to help slow the spread of the virus.

“York remains a safe and welcoming city to visit, with local businesses needing our support more than ever. Let’s continue supporting local businesses in a safe way following public health guidance, which remains our best defence against the virus. This way we can ensure our city can remain open, safe and welcoming.”

The council are working with North Yorkshire Police, public health experts, York BID and businesses to remind people to follow health guidance. Signage has been installed in prominent locations across the city to ensure the Hands, Face, Space message is promoted to everyone visiting the city centre.

York remains above the national average for footfall in the city, with visitors spend drawing close to pre-lockdown levels. Businesses across the city have been working with the Council and other partners to help keep visitors safe whilst they enjoy what the city has to offer.

To focus on reducing household transmission, the Council has launched a campaign encouraging residents to share their own ideas and tips they use to keep their home and family safe. So far these have included offering visitors kitchen roll to avoid sharing towels, and keeping a bottle of hand sanitiser ready at the door for visitors.

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

“We are grateful to everyone that has been following the rules so far, and we know many residents have worked hard to stay safe. But with the number of cases increasing, if we want to keep our city open we all need to play our part. The message is clear, to stop the spread we all need to work together.

We know that the best ways to stop the spread are wearing a face covering, keeping a safe distance and limiting contact with others as much as possible. If people are experiencing symptoms it is essential that they stay at home and arrange to have a test.

To halt the spread we need to remember to follow Hands, Face, Space and to:

Wash your hands regularly and for 20 seconds or more with soap and water or use hand sanitiser if soap and water are not easily available
Wear a face covering in busy public spaces
Keep a 2m distance from people outside your household and don’t gather in groups of more than six
Self-isolate and stay at home if you have symptoms or if you are contacted by test and trace. If you have symptoms please ask for a test by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or calling 119.”

Superintendent Mike Walker, who is leading the COVID-19 response for North Yorkshire Police said:

“Last weekend North Yorkshire Police worked alongside our local authority partners to protect the public and this weekend is no different. We will be proactively policing the Covid regulations and despite demand returning to pre-lockdown levels, we are determined to keep people safe and suppress the spread of the virus.

“However, our effort needs to be matched by the public who both live and visit North Yorkshire and the City of York. So far, the vast majority have demonstrated high levels of personal responsibility, for which we are immensely thankful. We all know we must continue to stay alert and keep going for as long as it takes to beat this virus. Just like you, I know we might have to live with its impacts for some time, but our collective determination to beat it will work.

“Extra officers will be patrolling across North Yorkshire and York this weekend, trying to keep everyone safe, but we need your help. If anyone is seeing this weekend as a chance to throw caution to the wind and not follow the restrictions, which everyone should all know and understand, then my message is simple – the police will not tolerate anyone who willingly puts others at risk, by refusing to abide by the regulations. Anyone who acts in such a reckless and irresponsible manner should expect enforcement action to be taken against them.

“So please enjoy what the county and city has to offer, but do so within the restrictions and work with us to keep North Yorkshire safe.”

Coronavirus York updates; 9th October 2020

Deaths and test results

There have been no further hospital deaths reported today.

The number of new cases announced today is 46 (FOURTY SIX). That is the lowest, single day, total announced this week.

The cumulative total number of cases is now 1884

The number of new cases in the last 7 days – expressed pro rate to 100,000 of population – is 201.32. This is higher than the regional and national average.

The worst affected neighbourhood is still Heslington, Fulford and the University. There have been 61 confirmed cases there in the last week.

We have looked at how the number of tests being carried out may be influencing the reported number of cases. The governments figures (click) only cover the period up to 30th September and cover pillar 2 tests only. . They don’t yet cover the period after the new Heslington test centre had ramped up to full capacity. The figure do however show that the recent surge in cases is not solely down to increased testing.

York Council commentary

The Council has updated its “open data” commentary on the pandemic. It is reproduced below

People with Covid Symptoms

• NHS Pathways /111 triages – as at 5.10.20 there had been 406 total covid triages in the CYC area in the last 7 days. The numbers have just started to fall in the last few days after a very steep rise over the previous 2-3 weeks with a peak of 653 triages in the 7 day period to 20.9.20.

• As at 7.10.20, the Covid Symptom App estimates 733.2 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 5,352 people). The peak estimated rate was 1,029.4 on 29.9.20.

Diagnosed cases (Pillar 1&2 combined)

• As at 8.10.20 York has had 1,838 cases, a rate of 872.7 per 100,000 of population. The rate in York is above the national average (853.9) but below the regional average (1193.4) average.

• The provisional rate for the last seven days of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population in York as at 6.10.20 is 203.69. The provisional national and regional averages are 124.68 and 220.24 respectively.

• The latest local “validated” 7 day rate at 2.10.20 was 161. The national and regional averages at this date were 109.3 and 190.1 respectively.

• As at 5.10.20, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 only) was 11.57% (447 positives out of 3,864 tests). The national and regional averages are 7.1% and 10.7% respectively. The number of Pillar 2 tests being carried out in York is increasing.

• The Fulford, Heslington and University MSOA is in the top 5% in the Yorkshire and Humber Region for new cases per 100,000 in the seven day period up to 2.10.20. Other MSOAs in the region (e.g. Leeds and Bradford) which contain university premises within their boundaries are also on this list.

Contact Tracing

• Since 28.5.20 a total of 1,003 laboratory confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 703 of the cases have been engaged. 2,609 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 1,699 of these have been traced.

Deaths

• ONS weekly data: For deaths occurring up to 25th September 2020 and registered up to 3rd October 2020, 172 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (83 in hospital, 77 in care homes, 9 at home and 3 in a hospice. The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 81.66 which is lower than the national average of 89.10. The most recent death reported for a York resident was in week 38 (12 to 18 September).

• ‘Excess’ deaths (ONS). In week 39 (19 Sept to 25 Sept), 21 deaths occurred in York, which is 8 fewer than the average weekly number for 2014-18. Over the last 18 weeks the total number of deaths in York has been 53 fewer than the average for the equivalent weeks in 2014-18.

• Local Registrar data: In the weekly data received on 5.10.20 (for deaths occurring up to 30.9.20), a cumulative total of 163 deaths of CYC residents where COVID-19 was mentioned (confirmed or suspected) on the death certificate, have been registered. The average age of the people who died was 82.5, with an age range of 53-104. The age profile of those dying in York is slightly older than the national average. 87 of the 163 were male (53.4%), slightly less than the national average (55.1%). 81 of the deaths occurred in hospital and 82 were community deaths (e.g. at home or in a care home or hospice). 71 people (43.6%) died in nursing /care homes (the national average is 29.43%). In addition 13 people (8%) who normally resided in nursing/care homes in the CYC area, died in hospital.

Data on deaths occurring in hospital are shown below. Deaths are initially reported for York NHS Foundation Trust which includes Scarborough Hospital and the further breakdown by site can be delayed. From local registrar data, 58.1% of COVID-19 deaths occurring at York Hospital have been CYC residents. (NB NHS Trusts record deaths following a positive covid-19 test (within 28 days) whereas ONS record deaths where covid-19 in mentioned on the death certificate so the totals are not the same).

• Deaths at York Hospital: As at 8.10.20, 136 deaths of people who had tested positive for COVID-19 and were being cared for at York Hospital have been reported. 216 deaths have been reported by the wider York NHS Trust.

Coronavirus York updates; 8th October 2020

Deaths and test results

Another death reported today at York hospital. This is the second in a week.

At the end of September there were 18 COVID patients being looked after by the Hospital Trust. The NHS do not published daily bulletins giving bed occupancy and discharge numbers at local authority level. We think that – – given the huge surge in local case numbers – they should now do so.

73 (SEVENTY THREE) additional positive test results have been announced today. This brings the total to 1838.

The cumulative 7 day average number of cases, per 100,000 population, peaked at 203.69 on Tuesday. This is significantly higher than the national average.

The worst affected neighbourhoods are currently Heslington, the City centre, the Groves and Tang Hall. All have large numbers of student occupied properties.

According to media reports, 135 people from the University of York have tested positive for Covid-19.

The number of students self-isolating has hit 1,000.

Volunteers are being recruited to help deliver food to the students stuck in uni accommodation. City of York Council has sent out an email to its team of volunteers asking for their help. It says: “The quantity of Covid-19 positive tests at the University of York has doubled. There are 1,000 students on campus socially isolating and the University of York needs support to ensure they can deliver food to them.”

Stricter rules for businesses

We know of, and are incredibly grateful for, the amount of work businesses are undertaking to ensure their premises are COVID secure for staff and customers.

The new measures from the government brought in this week also brought in increased punishment for businesses who aren’t COVID secure.

Businesses and organisations will face stricter rules to make their premises COVID Secure (from 28 September):

A wider range of leisure and entertainment venues, services provided in community centres, and close contact services will be subject to the COVID-19 Secure requirements in law and fines of up to £10,000 for repeated breaches.Employers must not knowingly require or encourage someone who is being required to self-isolate to come to work.Businesses must remind people to wear face coverings where mandated.

New guidance on £9 billion Job Retention Bonus

Further information has been published on how businesses can claim the government’s Job Retention Bonus, with millions set to benefit from the £9 billion package.

the Job Retention Bonus, worth up to £9 billion is set to support millions of employers who have kept on furloughed workersthe bonus will work alongside newly announced Job Support Scheme and could be worth more than 60% of average wages of workers who have been furloughed – and are kept on until the start of February 2021businesses can claim for the Bonus from 15 February until the end of March.

Read the full update at https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-guidance-on-9-billion-job-retention-bonus-set-to-benefit-millions-of-businesses

Self-isolation support payments

Eligible employees who are required to self-isolate by the Government’s Test and Track scheme, will be eligible for one-off payments to support them through the 14-day quarantine period.

The new Test and Trace Support Payment scheme from the Government is for people on low incomes who are unable to work from home while they are self-isolating. Where earnings are affected by self-isolating, applicants may be entitled to some financial support; a one-off ‘Test and Trace Support Payment’ of £500. Anyone told to self-isolate by the NHS’s scheme must do so or face fines of up to £10,000, and the £500 payment must be returned.

The scheme will also apply to eligible self-employed people who can prove they are unable to work while self-isolating.

Information on how to apply for a self-isolation support payment from 9 October is at www.york.gov.uk/selfisolate

Applications for free peer-to-peer support programme are now open

Peer Networks is a free national peer-to-peer programme for SME leaders that want to grow and develop their organisation for future success.

The York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub are working in partnership with the University of York to create diverse groups of individuals who can collaboratively work through common business issues. Through interactive action learning, participants will be able to discuss their challenges, gain and reflect on valuable feedback, and implement practical solutions to overcome them.

To be eligible, businesses need to have operated for over a year, have five or more employees and an annual turnover of at least £100,000. The scheme will close to applications on 26 October 2020 and places are limited.

Find out more at: https://www.ynygrowthhub.com/resources/peer-networks-programme

Prime Minister’s Announcement: Skills and Training

The Prime Minister has set out plans to transform the training and skills system to help the country recover from coronavirus. The plans include a Lifetime Skills Guarantee to give adults the chance to take free college courses valued by employers and new entitlement to flexible loans to allow courses to be taken in segments, boosting opportunities to retrain.

This included an expansion of the Department for Education’s online learning platform, The Skills Toolkit. There are now more than 70 courses in digital, numeracy and employability or work-readiness available online and free of charge.

We are encouraging more learners to sign up to The Skills Toolkit, in order to help them build up their skills, progress in work and boost their job prospects.

Stay safe and up to date say York Council

As cases of Coronavirus continue to increase, City of York Council are encouraging residents and businesses to play their part to protect those we love and keep the places we enjoy open.

Stay up to date with York’s response to coronavirus through our upcoming Live Q&As, daily social media and latest government guidance updates.

As many volunteers have returned to work or education, we’re looking for 300 more to support York. We get a wide range of requests for volunteers to help with across the city.Sign up to volunteer so we can match you with suitable requests or needs.

Having friends or family to visit?

We’re asking residents to share their top tips for stopping the spread of Coronavirus when visitors come round. Whether it’s buying or making a fire pit so you can socialise outdoors, or putting kitchen roll in the bathroom so no one shares a hand towel – let us know how you keep people safe.

Current data shows us that social and household contacts and lack of social distancing is the main cause of spreading Coronavirus in York. It’s vital we don’t forget these stay-safe steps when visitors come to your home. Let’s protect those we love and remember ‘Hands, Face, Space’ whether you’re out and about or have visitors to your home.

Read the latest guidance on how to meet with others safely on the gov.uk website.

You can download our Let’s be safe posters and share the helpful reminder of ‘Hands, Face, Space’ in your neighbourhood from the council website.

Going out to eat or drink?

Following Government guidance, hospitality businesses are now required to:

Close at 10pm (not last orders)
Keep tables a safe distance apart or divided with protective screens
Refuse entry to groups of more than six
Require customer and staff to wear face covering, unless sat at their table
Either ask customers to scan the NHS QR code in their premises or record their contact details for the Track and Trace programme

Businesses in York have innovated and adapted to remain safe and welcoming for residents and visitors, but the threat of Coronavirus has not gone away and so we all need to continue to work together to protect our health, our economy and our city.

Read the latest government guidance introduced from 22 September on the gov.uk website.

Join our upcoming Live Q&As

Next week we have two Live Coronavirus Q&As where residents will be able to hear the latest city wide updates and ask their questions:

Coronavirus York 7th October 2020

Deaths and test results

66 (SIXTYSIX) additional positive test results were announced today. This brings the total number of cases to 1765

There have been no further hospital deaths

The most recent spike in case numbers in the City coincided with the opening of the additional test centre at Heslington last week.

The area with the largest number of positive test results (39) over the last 7 days has been the Heslington/University/Fulford neighbourhood.

This suggests that part of the reason for the surge may be the consequence of a large number of younger people being tested at Heslington. Unfortunately the authorities do not provide any demographic or tracing statistics at local authority level which would allow greater understanding of any such linkages

At the University of York, there are now 135 individuals self isolating due to a positive Covid-19 test That is up from 113 yesterday.

At York St John University there were 63 people with a positive test on Tuesday – up from 46 the day before.

The number of positive test results peaked at 80 on Friday 7th October. There were also 74 cases recorded on Sunday (4th October).

The peak, 7 day case numbers per 100,000 head of population, figure reached 192 on Sunday. That is the highest recorded since the pandemic started.

New payments for self isolating workers

Eligible residents who are required to self-isolate by the Government’s Test and Track scheme, will be eligible for one-off payments to support them through the 14-day quarantine period.

The new Test and Trace Support Payment scheme from the Government is for people on low incomes who are unable to work from home while they are self-isolating. This new scheme will also apply to eligible self-employed people who can prove they are unable to work while self-isolating. Information on how to apply for a self-isolation support payment is available at www.york.gov.uk/selfisolate. Application forms will be available at this link from 9 October.

Where earnings are affected by self-isolating, applicants may be entitled to some financial support; a one-off ‘Test and Trace Support Payment’ of £500. Anyone told to self-isolate by the NHS’s scheme must do so or face fines of up to £10,000, and the £500 payment must be returned.

Those eligible for a Test and Trace Support Payment will have been:

asked to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace either because you’ve tested positive for coronavirus on or after 28 September, or have recently been in close contact with someone who has tested positive
in receipt of one or more benefits

Support may also be available for those who don’t meet the Government’s eligibility criteria. Details of our ‘discretionary scheme’ will be published as soon as possible at www.york.gov.uk/selfisolate.

We know that as well as health concerns, the coronavirus pandemic has given many people additional financial worries.

Meanwhile, for existing support from the Government, please find out about:

Additional information and support at the Money Advice Servicewhich has up to date information and guidance on the financial impacts of the coronavirus pandemic at moneyadviceservice.org.uk or on freephone 0800 138 7777
The benefits you might be eligible for, how to claim and how any benefits will be affected if your circumstances change at gov.uk/benefits-calculators

For help to claim any of the help above or for more advice on sources of support in the city, please go to www.york.gov.uk/BenefitsAdvice or call 01904 551556 who will be able to help or refer you to the most appropriate support.

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