Agenda item

Lucy Butcher, Public Health Practitioner and Rana AlKubesi, Neighbourhood Engagement Officer, were welcomed to the meeting.

Members were made aware that rates of Covid-19 were slowly decreasing though there was still the need to remain vigilant.  The highest case rates were seen in the 50-59 age range and also those aged 20-29. However, it was thought that the statistics could also highlight that those aged 50-59 were more likely to get a test.

Most neighbourhoods in Barnsley had similar case rates but further analysis was being undertaken.  It was acknowledged that approaches taken were boroughwide, though if more localised data indicated a different approach, relevant discussions would be taken with Ward Members.

The message of ‘Hands, Face, Space’ was still being given, and opening windows to allow fresh air was also being promoted. 

Members were made aware of the situation report meeting which considered case data twice a week, looked at issues and assigned actions.  Intelligence from Neighbourhood Engagement Officers (NEOs) was fed into the analysis, but Members were encouraged to report any intelligence to Public Health officers.

16 Covid Marshals were now in place, working in pairs across the borough.  The Marshals had no enforcement powers, but worked closely with South Yorkshire Police.  The Marshals had worked with NEOs and Regulatory Service to visit supermarkets to ensure compliance, providing support with queuing structures where required.

Issues with open spaces and with retail had been reported, and signage had been displayed with increased patrolling in these areas to support adherence to the guidelines.

Work to provide community insights, including a survey and workshops, were noted, with the outcome of this work to be shared when available.

Members noted the support in place to monitor Covid in vulnerable settings and provide assistance.  Also noted was the support available to those self-isolating through the Covid support service, which had received positive feedback.

Those present heard that there remained capacity at symptomatic testing centres throughout the borough, and within the asymptomatic community testing facility at the Metrodome.  The community testing facility had identified 11 cases which would not otherwise have been detected.

The vaccine programme was being successfully rolled out in Barnsley, with a push to ensure all those aged over 70 and those clinically extremely vulnerable receive their vaccine by mid-February.

Questions were asked regarding vaccinating the 65-70 age group, and it was noted that the focus was currently as previously mentioned but would shortly move to those aged 65-70.  It was also noted that take up was very positive with only small numbers declining the vaccine.

Members heard of the six NEOs now in post.  34 licensed premises had been contacted to offer support, and visits would recommence to offer support in ensuring Covid safety compliance following the relaxation of restrictions.  A number of businesses had also been referred to Enterprising Barnsley for financial support.  Businesses in the area were being mapped with a view to offering more widespread support when restrictions allowed.

The NEOs had provided support to Community Development Officers and to community groups to ensure Covid safe practices.  The team had also supported the delivery of winter warmth packs and also assisted the Community Responder service.

Supermarkets in the area were being visited to ensure compliance, with a positive level of cooperation being seen.

RESOLVED that thanks be given for the report and its content be noted.