All our help and information for 30/09/2020 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:
Libraries offer digital help for job seekers
Somerset Libraries are kicking off National Libraries Week with an innovative new scheme. From Monday 5 October iPads will be available to job seekers looking for an extra bit of help in their quest for employment.
The free iPad Loan Scheme from Somerset County Council is designed to help people looking for a new job or career but who may not have the IT skills or equipment they need.
Members of Somerset Libraries can borrow a device for up to six weeks free of charge from Bridgwater, Chard, Minehead, Shepton Mallet or Taunton libraries.
Wessex Water Recovery Fund offers support to COVID-hit communities
Wessex Water is providing more financial help for community groups in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The Wessex Water Recovery Fund aims to strengthen communities following the Covid-19 outbreak, with an emphasis on local rather than national projects.
Apply now for 2021 school places
Somerset parents are being urged to apply for school places online and in time.
Whether your child is starting school for the first time, or transferring to their next school, applications need to be made through Somerset County Council’s website: www.somerset.gov.uk/admissions
The deadline for parents to submit applications for secondary school places is Saturday, 31 October 2020. This applies to all children moving from primary to secondary school, or middle to upper school, in September 2021.
New legal duty to self-isolate in force
People in England are now required by law to self-isolate if they test positive or are contacted by NHS Test and Trace. This law has been introduced to ensure compliance with self-isolation rules and to reduce the spread of coronavirus.
Those on lower incomes who cannot work from home and have lost income as a result will also be eligible for a new £500 Test and Trace Support Payment.
Guidance for small marriages and civil partnerships
Guidance has been updated for people planning to get married or form a civil partnership in England. There is information on the number of guests allowed, legal requirements for businesses to be closed between 10pm and 5am and supporting staff to self-isolate, mandatory face coverings for staff, mandatory table service at licenced venues, new NHS Test and Trace QR code and guests prohibited from joining in with performances.
Please remember Hands, Face, Space
It is so important to remember the coronavirus basics as we enter autumn and winter:
- Hands – Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds
- Face – Cover your face in enclosed spaces
- Space – Keep 2m apart where possible
If you have Covid-19 symptoms, you must:
- Stay at home
- Call 119 or book a test online at gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test
- Self-isolate until you get the results from that test