All our help and information for 26/06/2020 is now available in a single place on the SCC website https://www.somerset.gov.uk/coronavirus/covid-19-latest-advice/
This page is refreshed through the day so please check in regularly to keep across developments and news.
Top stories today:
Help further improve Somerset’s streets during the coronavirus pandemic
A new interactive online mapping tool has been launched so people can have their say on temporary walking and cycling measures in Somerset.
A number of temporary measures, including pedestrianised high streets, have been introduced to encourage social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic and positively support the safe movement of pedestrians and cyclists.
Working in partnership with Town Councils, the schemes are being put in place by Somerset’s Covid-19 Active Travel group, which includes representatives from Somerset County Council, Mendip District Council, Sedgemoor District Council, Somerset West and Taunton Council, South Somerset District Council, Avon and Somerset Police and Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership (SASP).
The group has now developed an interactive mapping tool with Commonplace that enables members of the community to flag up areas of concern in a specific area where changes could make a positive difference. Comments will be reviewed, and temporary measures may be put in place or adjusted where appropriate.
Childcare entitlements
It’s been a challenging time for families over recent months and if you’re a parent of a three- or four-year-old you may be thinking ahead about how you can access childcare now or during the summer so you can go back to work.
There are Government initiatives which will support families to reduce the cost of childcare. Find out more at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk where you can use an online calculator to see what offers best suit your family.
If your child is aged between three and four you can claim up to a maximum of 15 hours per week of funded early education during term time. You also have the option to spread your entitlement across the year and use fewer hours a week over more weeks of the year. This allows you to use some funded hours in the Summer holidays.
If you’re a working parent and meet the criteria, your entitlement increases to 30 hours – there are links below to explain how this all works.
- For an overview of entitlement visit here.
- If you are a working parent and your child’s third birthday falls between 1 April – 31 August, you can apply now for a 30 hours funded place to start in September 2020. Find out more at www.somerset.gov.uk/eye30
- Find out about temporary changes that may affect you if you’re applying for, or already getting tax-free childcare or 30 hours funded childcare during the coronavirus pandemic: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-if-you-can-get-tax-free-childcare-and-30-hours-free-childcare-during-coronavirus-covid-19
Please contact the Children and Families Team at Somerset Direct if you have any further questions on 0300 1232224.
Pubs, restaurants and cafes serving outside
The Government has introduced plans to allow more pubs, restaurants and cafes to serve customers outside.
Changes for the hospitality industry introduced by the government include:
- Reduce the consultation period for applications for pavement licences
- Set a lower application fee for a pavement and street cafe licence
Stay happy, healthy and safe
Many people might feel anxious about coronavirus as restrictions are eased further. There is helpful information and guidance available on topics from handwashing and social distancing to tips on fitness and wellbeing – plus a useful FAQ to help answer your questions below.
Wessex Water Foundation launched to help those in need
The new Wessex Water Foundation, a multi-million pound initiative launched by the water and sewerage company, will focus on supporting people hit hardest by the Covid-19 crisis in its first year. The Foundation is providing dedicated funding for projects across the Wessex Water region in partnership with Somerset Community Foundation, as well as Wiltshire, Dorset and Quartet Community Foundations, and is already prioritising those worst affected by the pandemic.
Where to find information and guidance
- Latest Somerset County Council information on coronavirus https://www.somerset.gov.uk/coronavirus/covid-19-latest-advice/
- NHS information on coronavirus: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
- Q&A from Public Health England on coronavirus: https://publichealthmatters.blog.gov.uk/2020/01/23/wuhan-novel-coronavirus-what-you-need-to-know/
- FAQ from the Cabinet Office:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do