District News: Essex-wide coronavirus update, Community Response Hub details, Test and Trace Support Payments + more

 

 

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. Essex-wide coronavirus update Cases of coronavirus in Essex are now increasing rapidly. To flatten the curve of infection before it puts strain on our hospitals and economy, Essex leaders have asked that the county moves into the new 'High level' of restrictions as soon as practicable. We worked so hard to slow the spread earlier this year and now we must work together again. ► Get more information Community Response Hub The Uttlesford Community Response Hub continues to help people in the community who need it, particularly those who are finding themselves having to return to self-isolation. The number 03333 408 218 is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm. Alternatively, email:  communityresponse@uttlesford.gov.uk. Coronavirus Test and Trace Support Payments If you are told to self-isolate, you cannot work from home and you have lost income as a result, you may be eligible for a new £500 Test and Trace Support Payment. The government has set up a test and trace support payment scheme of £500 to support eligible low paid workers whose earnings are affected by staying at home and isolating for 14 days. If you have started to self-isolate anytime from 28 September you can apply using our online form. Applications must be made within 14 days of a self-isolation period ending. ► Get more information and apply If a person does not meet the eligibility criteria for the main scheme, they may be able to claim as part of the council's discretionary scheme instead. Please refer to the website for further details. Residents urged to get in touch if they can't pay Council Tax If you are suffering exceptional hardship due to the impact of coronavirus or another change in your circumstances, are concerned about your repayments or you require more information, please get in touch with us. Our teams are on hand to provide assistance and advice on alternative payment options as well as ensuring residents get all the financial help they are entitled to. Contact the council's Customer Service Centre via uconnect@uttlesford.gov.uk or by calling 01799 510510. Protect your loved ones. Get the app. Downloading the NHS COVID-19 App is the fastest way to see if you're at risk from the virus.  Based on an Apple/Google privacy framework, the app has a number of tools designed to help protect those we love, like contact tracing, checking into venues through an in-built QR code scanner, risk alerts by postcode, a symptom checker and test booking. The more people use the app, the more we can keep each other safe and stop infection rates rising.  ► Find out more There are three simple actions we must all do to keep on protecting each other: HANDS – keep washing your hands regularly FACE – wear a face covering over your nose and mouth in enclosed spaces SPACE – stay at least 2 metres apart, or 1 metre with a face covering or other precautions If you are feeling unwell, get a test and do not leave home for at least 10 days. ► Get latest NHS advice