Agenda item

Cath Bedford and Craig Aubrey were welcomed to the meeting.  Members were aware that case rates were declining in the area, but slowly, and that the message of ‘Hands, Face, Space’ needed to be maintained.

The vaccination programme continued to be successfully delivered, with 77,000 adults in Barnsley now vaccinated.  As the programme moves to target younger residents, an increase in vaccine hesitancy was expected.

The Neighbourhood Engagement Officer had been working locally, providing a contact for local businesses, including licensed premises, to receive advice on applying for funding and reopening in a Covid safe way when allowed.  Members also noted the work to support reopening of community buildings.

Work had been undertaken with Regulatory Services to visit supermarkets and minimarkets in the area to provide guidance and support in relation to the current restrictions.

Members noted the work with volunteers to distribute reusable face masks, with 200 already handed out and a further 300 available.

Noted was the work with Covid Marshals to visit local beauty spots to ensure compliance, and it was acknowledged that this was intelligence led.

Members noted that Craig had secured permanent employment as a Community Development Officer with the Central Team.  All wished him well and thanked him for his work in the area.

RESOLVED that the report be noted.