Health centre says it is working under "extreme pressure"

* Llangollen Health Centre.

Llangollen Health Centre has highlighted the seriousness of the coronavirus situation locally and explained what its team are doing about it.

On Facebook it says: "We are seeing a distinct rise in the number of Covid-19 positive cases in our practice area.

"As a result, we are currently working under extreme pressure and we are also striving to ensure that we keep everyone – both patients and staff - safe.

"Before you pick up the phone please consider whether you really need to phone us or whether you can get advice from an alternative source such as a community pharmacy.

"Our website also offers a host of advice on various ailments under the 'I want health and wellbeing advice' section and the Appointments section gives guidance on whether you need to see a doctor or whether your condition can be managed at home with help from a pharmacist.

"Please visit www.llangollenhealth.com

"Please be assured that we are still here and we are still working but we do need to make sure that access to our doctors is available for those that really need it. 

"If you do need to phone us and you are put on triage please be aware that we may not always be able to get back to you the same day."

MP welcomes latest Covid-19 measures from Chancellor

Member of Parliament for Clwyd South, Simon Baynes (pictured), has welcomed the Chancellor’s announcement yesterday that workers across the UK will benefit from increased support with a five-month extension of the furlough scheme into Spring 2021.

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) will now run until the end of March with employees receiving 80% of their current salary for hours not worked.

Support for millions more workers through the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) will be increased, with the third grant covering November to January calculated at 80% of average trading profits, up to a maximum of £7,500.

The Chancellor also announced today an increase in the upfront guarantee of funding for the devolved administrations from £14 billion to £16 billion. This uplift will continue to support workers, business and individuals in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

In making his announcements he said: "It’s clear the economic effects are much longer lasting for businesses than the duration of any restrictions, which is why we have decided to go further with our support.

“Extending furlough and increasing our support for the self-employed will protect millions of jobs and give people and businesses the certainty they need over what will be a difficult winter.”

Simon Baynes said: “This decision taken by the Chancellor is good news for jobs and businesses in Clwyd South where this support will help workers impacted by Covid-19 and provide further reassurance for those that might be worried about the winter months ahead.”

  

Bonfire Night safety message from ambulance service

 

The Welsh Ambulance Service is reaching out to young people and families across the country to ‘respect and protect’ each other and remain safe from injury and infection this Bonfire Night.

With November 05 falling during the all-Wales Coronavirus firebreak period, the usual organised bonfires and firework displays will not take place as Welsh Government guidelines currently ban mixing with people from outside your household.

Director of Operations for Welsh Ambulance Service, Lee Brooks said: “Bonfire Night often sees an increased number of calls to all emergency services.

“In areas of communal living such a halls of residence or blocks of flats, the temptation to meet others and celebrate may be strong, but we appeal to everybody not to take part in any activities that pose an increased risk of avoidable injury or viral transmission, and of course only consuming alcohol in moderation.

“This year especially we would ask the public, young people in particular, to help us keep our resources free for the most life-threatening injuries and illnesses by avoiding un-regulated bonfires or firework displays, respecting and protecting themselves, their families and neighbours.”

As well as the risk of burns injuries, smoke from fires and fireworks can aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma, and people with asthma are at a higher risk of getting very sick from Coronavirus which highlights the double medical risk at present from meeting with others not in your household to celebrate.

The Operation BANG campaign from ambulance partners in North Wales Police and South Wales Fire Service offers an excellent resource of tips to keep you and yours safe this Guy Fawkes night.

Should you require non-urgent medical advice the NHS Wales 111 phone service is available 24/7 and also online at https://111.wales.nhs.uk/.

£3million boost for most vulnerable mental health service users

* Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Eluned Morgan.

Additional funding of nearly £3million will support some of the most vulnerable mental health service users in Wales during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Welsh Government has announced.  

Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Eluned Morgan has vowed to provide a ‘helping hand’ to those looking for work, permanent accommodation, who may be struggling with mental health or substance misuse problems in the midst of this pandemic.

The additional funding will provide early, targeted support, for the most vulnerable individuals in a preventative capacity to reduce the escalation of often complex needs.

The funding is split into seven distinct areas and will see the Welsh Government work in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions, local authorities, the police and Area Planning Boards, as well as supporting health boards to provide voluntary sector led mental health support in their areas.

Funding includes:

• £1.4million towards third sector led schemes designed to address low level mental health and wellbeing need
• £75,000 will fund the ‘I Can Work’ programme supporting people with mild to moderate mental health problems into paid work
• £25,000 to support development for the substance misuse workforce to ensure they are adequately skilled and supported to provide essential services
• £750,000 to provide residential rehabilitation accommodation for those with complex needs to successfully transition to living independently in permanent accommodation
• £500,000 to provide PPE to substance misuse services providing a range of support for some of the most vulnerable people in society
• £150,000 Digital Inclusion Fund for the enhancement of digital services for service users who are currently excluded
• £50,000 to support work with police forces across Wales piloting nasal naloxone kits as part of the drive to reduce drug related deaths

Eluned Morgan said: "We know that early intervention is vital for better outcomes. We’ve seen the devastating effect this pandemic has had on the most vulnerable members of our society and we must provide an extra helping hand when they need it.

"This funding is a key part of our recovery plan, where we have committed to protecting and improving individuals’ well-being, supporting the homeless, and reducing unemployment to give people the best chance in life.

"These are tough times for us all to live through, but if we look out for each other and support the vulnerable, we will get through it. Anyone concerned about their mental health or that of a relative or friend can access the C.A.L.L. Helpline on 0800 137 737 or can text ‘help’ to 81066."

Coronavirus update from Welsh Government

Latest coronavirus update from the Welsh Government, dated yesterday, is:

·         First Minister Mark Drakeford (pictured) has set out the further details about the new national measures which will be introduced when the firebreak ends on November 9.

o   In a statement to the Senedd, he confirmed a group of four people would be able to meet in indoor public spaces, such as pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes.

o   The hospitality sector will also introduce pre-booking, time slots and collect contact details to support the Test Trace Protect system.

o   The 10pm curfew on alcohol sales will remain in place in Wales.

o   The system will be reviewed after two weeks.

o   The First Minister’s statement is available at: https://record.assembly.wales/Plenary/6616#A61801  

 

·         The Covid-19 risk assessment tool is available to download for a variety of workplace settings, including the NHS and education

o   The self-assessment tool was developed by the Covid-19 BAME advisory group

o   More information: https://gov.wales/covid-19-workforce-risk-assessment-tool

 

Firebreak information

·         A firebreak to break the cycle of infections and bring coronavirus under control began on Friday October 23 and ends on Monday November 9

·         Frequently asked questions https://gov.wales/coronavirus-firebreak-frequently-asked-questions

·         Overview of the rules to follow (multiple languages) https://gov.wales/coronavirus-firebreak-guidance-summary

·         Closure of businesses summary: https://gov.wales/closure-businesses-and-premises-coronavirus-covid-19

·         Taxi and private hire vehicles guidance: https://gov.wales/taxi-and-private-hire-vehicle-guidance

·         Further education and apprenticeships: https://gov.wales/further-education-and-apprenticeships-coronavirus-firebreak-guidance

·         Childcare and play guidance: https://gov.wales/childcare-and-play-coronavirus-firebreak-guidance

·         Exams and assessments: https://gov.wales/examinations-and-assessments-coronavirus

·         Schools guidance: https://gov.wales/schools-coronavirus-firebreak-guidance

·         Support for businesses: https://businesswales.gov.wales/coronavirus-advice/covid-19-support-business

Coronavirus in numbers

·         The latest figures published by Public Health Wales today show there have been 1,119 new cases of coronavirus, bringing the total to 54,456 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Wales since the start of the pandemic.

o   Sadly, another four deaths were reported by Public Health Wales today. The total number of deaths reported by Public Health Wales is 1,895.

o   These figures are updated daily at: https://public.tableau.com/profile/public.health.wales.health.protection#!/vizhome/RapidCOVID-19virology-Public/Headlinesummary 

·         Public Health Wales has added a map to its surveillance dashboard showing the number of Covid-19 cases in small local areas. The map shows cases on a rolling seven-day or 21-day basis, or all cases since the start of the pandemic. It shows the number of cases and the rate per 100,000 people: https://public.tableau.com/profile/public.health.wales.health.protection#!/vizhome/RapidCOVID-19virology-Public/Headlinesummary

·         The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has today published statistics on provisional weekly deaths, including deaths involving COVID-19, for the week ending 23 October.

o   The cumulative number of deaths involving Covid-19 in Welsh residents up to 23 October was 2,806.

o   Of the deaths registered in the week ending 23 October, there were provisionally 65 deaths involving Covid-19 in Welsh residents. This was 10% of all deaths and 18 more than the previous week. The number of weekly registered deaths involving Covid peaked in April.

o   This is the sixth successive week the number of deaths have increased and they are at the highest level since mid-June.

o   For the period 29 February to 23 October, there were a total of 2,418 excess deaths (12%) above the five-year average. The excess death rate for Wales for this period was lower than in England.

o   https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/bulletins/deathsregisteredweeklyinenglandandwalesprovisional/latest

Where to find the latest information

·         A firebreak to break the cycle of infections and bring coronavirus under control began on Friday October 23 and ends on Monday November 9. More information: https://gov.wales/coronavirus-firebreak-frequently-asked-questions 

·         Public Health Wales provides a daily update about the number of cases of coronavirus in Wales. It is available at: https://covid19-phwstatement.nhs.wales/

·         Information about coronavirus is available on the Welsh Government’s website at https://gov.wales/coronavirus and https://llyw.cymru/coronafeirws

·         Information about support for businesses is available at the Business Wales website https://businesswales.gov.wales/coronavirus-advice/

·         If you can help the effort to produce PPE in Wales please visit https://businesswales.gov.wales/news-and-blogs/news/provision-critical-equipment-and-personal-protection-equipment-ppe

·         The Welsh Government holds a regular media briefing about coronavirus. These are on-the-record, on-camera and supported by a BSL translator. These are held at 12.15pm and live-streamed on our @WelshGovernment Twitter channel.

o   Dr Andrew Goodall, chief executive of NHS Wales held today’s press conference. You can watch again at: https://twitter.com/WelshGovernment/status/1323599344717606913

 

Temporary traffic measures begin to be put in place

* New double yellow lines outside the library and the Town Hall.

* Line painting in progress on Castle Street this morning.

The package of temporary traffic measures designed to aid public safety in the town centre during the pandemic started to be applied today (Monday).

First signs of the new times were double yellow lines along Castle Street where parking is now prohibited.

Denbighshire County Council recently published the temporary traffic order enabling the moves.

The council says it is making the order for “reasons of public safety following the pandemic and in accordance with Welsh Government regulations”.

The aim, it says, is to “facilitate easier on-street mobility of the public on foot or by pedal cycle with greater self-distancing for individuals”.

The order come into force today and will remain in force for a maximum of 18 months.

It enables the council to:

* Reverse the one-way restriction on Church Street between its junction with Chapel Street and its junction with Regent Street. 

This, says the council, will reduce instances of ‘rat running’ and provide improved access to schools and the town centre for pedestrians and cyclists.

* Introduce a widened pedestrian area on the eastern side of Castle Street between its junction with Bridge Street and its junction with Regent Street. 

This will be achieved with the introduction of bolt-down kerbing and will provide enhanced facilities for people to social distance and travel actively. 

To facilitate this work, on-street parking will be suspended on Castle Street for the duration of the trial period.

* Introduce a one-way restriction on Market Street between its junction with Castle Street and its junction with East Street. 

Vehicles will be allowed to enter Market Street from Castle Street and proceed in a westerly direction. 

The purpose of this restriction is to provide an additional loading bay, for use by businesses, along the north side of Market Street.

What's happening in Wales after firebreak lockdown ends

* First Minister Mark Drakeford in today's press conference. 

A new set of national rules will apply once the Wales-wide firebreak lockdown comes to an end at 00:01 on Monday November 9.

The First Minister said in this afternoon's press conference that everyone in Wales has an important part to play in helping to prevent the spread of coronavirus – and this means thinking carefully about the contact we all have with other people.

He added: "The more people we meet, the more people are at risk from coronavirus."

The new national measures, which the First Minister began to set out today, are designed to protect people’s health and provide as much freedom as possible while the virus remains in circulation.

Some of the new measures are still being finalised following the "unexpected" announcement over the weekend about a month-long lockdown in England, which will start on Thursday.

The new national measures include:

• The need to maintain two metre social distancing and wear face masks in enclosed public places, including on public transport and taxis, will continue
• The requirement to work from home whenever possible will remain
• People should only meet with their ‘bubble’ in their own home and only two households will be able to form a ‘bubble’. If one person from either household develops symptoms, everyone should immediately self-isolate
• Up to 15 people can take part in an organised indoors activity and up to 30 in an organised activity outdoors, providing all social distancing, hand hygiene and other covid safety measures are followed
• All premises, such as restaurants, cafes, pubs and gyms, closed during the firebreak, will be able to reopen. Following the announcement about the English lockdown, Ministers are having ongoing discussions with the hospitality sector about the detailed rules for reopening. This includes about meeting in public indoor spaces
• As part of keeping risks to a minimum, people should avoid non-essential travel as much as possible. There will be no legal restrictions on travel within Wales for residents, but international travel should be for essential reasons only.

In addition:

• All schools will reopen
• Churches and places of worship will resume services
• Local authority services will resume but based on local circumstances
• Community centres will be available for small groups to meet safely indoors in the winter months.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: "Each of us has an important part to play in slowing the spread of coronavirus in Wales and saving lives – we cannot do this without your help.

"Everyone has made so many sacrifices this year already. To make sure we do not lose all this hard work, we need to carry on looking after each other and keeping ourselves safe.

"This is a virus which thrives on human contact. Social contact is important to all of us but to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe, we need to think carefully about all our meetings and contacts with other people and try and reduce them to reduce our risk of infection.

"Rather than us asking what we can or can’t do, we need to ask ourselves what should we be doing to keep our families safe.

"Government rules and regulations are here to help. But the real strength we have is in the choices we make and the actions we take together."