Local residents must comply with the new measures introduced by the Prime Minister last night (23 March) in the fight against Coronavirus. The single most important action we can all take is to stay at home in order to protect the NHS and save lives.
It requires people to stay at home except for very limited purposes such as shopping for basic necessities, for one form of exercise, for a medical need or for travelling to and from work if this cannot be done at home.
In line with the new measures, as well as the previous closure of leisure centres and other public buildings, Walsall Council has also closed the First Stop Shop at the Civic Centre and is directing residents and businesses to access services needed online.
Stephen Gunther, Walsall’s Director of Public Health, said,
‘It is important that we all play our part and take the necessary steps to help prevent the further spread of coronavirus. It is essential people using parks and open spaces adhere to the steps outlined in the Prime Minister’s announcement. Everyone has a social and personal responsibility to follow the Government measures regarding social distancing. This relates to every aspect of our lives and must not be taken lightly.’
The latest Government guidance stops all social and cultural events including weddings, baptisms and other religious ceremonies. Funerals are only to be attended by six immediate family members. All non-essential retail stores need to close.
Walsall Council has launched ‘Making Connections Walsall’ a friendly service to protect the most vulnerable in the community and can be contacted by calling 0121 380 6690 or emailing COVID-19communityhelp@walsall.gov.uk.
In line with Government guidance play areas in parks have been closed and notices displayed to remind all visitors of the need to maintain 2m distance.
As many market traders are already following the Governments guidance regarding social distancing the decision has been made to close the three council operated markets.
A link to the national guidance is available https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/full-guidance-on-staying-at-home-and-away-from-others.
Separate advice is available for individuals or households who are isolating, and for the most vulnerable who need to be shielded.
Walsall Council has a dedicated page for local information www.walsall.gov.uk
Advice about how to protect yourselves and those around you from the virus can be found here www.nhs.uk/coronavirus
