All our help and information for 07/08/2020 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:
Keep yourself and Somerset healthy
With a hot weekend predicted, Somerset residents and visitors are being urged to follow the guidance to keep themselves, their family and friends and the county safe from coronavirus.
Temperatures are predicted to peak on Saturday and Sunday – and into early next week – reaching the low 30s. And that could risk people forgetting that coronavirus remains a threat.
Current guidance for England continues to limit social gatherings. You can meet in social gatherings of up to two households (including your support bubble) indoors and outdoors, while up to six people from different households can meet outdoors only.
Businesses and venues can host larger groups, provided they comply with the COVID-19 Secure Guidance. There’s more detailed guidance here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do#social-contact-and-events
Tips on keeping your cool in the heat
As temperatures rise, we have put together some top tips on coping in the hot weather this weekend and into next week. Please keep an eye out for yourself, vulnerable family and friends and neighbours.
Wearing face coverings and PPE in hot conditions can be uncomfortable but is no less important and must still be worn correctly. Drink plenty of water and take breaks to cool down, in safety, if necessary.
Pedestrianisation change in Chard from today
Emergency measures to support the reopening of high streets in Somerset were rolled out across the county in June to free up space in high streets as retail businesses reopened and shoppers returned.
Holyrood Street, Chard was pedestrianised to support reopening of non-essential retail businesses.
After reviewing footfall and listening to feedback from both shoppers and businesses, Somerset’s Covid-19 Active Travel group has made the decision to reopen Holyrood Street from today – Friday 7 August.
“Please give me space” social distancing cards and badges
The Cabinet Office has produced optional cards and badges which can be carried by someone to show they may have difficulties or concerns in maintaining social distancing. They can be used to signal to others around them that they need to pay attention and be given space. There are versions to print and one that can be used on your mobile phone. All ‘please give me space’ assets can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/please-give-me-space-social-distancing-cards-or-badges
Marriages and civil partnerships
The guidance designed to assist people planning to get married or form a civil partnership in England has been updated. This now reflects the additional requirements on face coverings and the implications for wedding receptions, following the Prime Minister’s roadmap announcement last week. The easing of restrictions on small wedding receptions will now not take place until 15 August, at the earliest.