Latest News – Thursday 3 December

Message from Councillor Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council

The news that we will be the first country to roll out vaccinations from next week must lift our spirits and give us all renewed hope that 2021 will be much better than 2020! Now I want us all to concentrate on getting through this winter, bearing in mind mass vaccination is a very large logistical task and will take time to roll out.

We are now at Tier 3 (Very High Alert). It seems lockdown has helped reduce numbers, but our experience over the Autumn shows us how easily we can get another spike.

Staying on our guard (hands-face-space) will remain key to keeping the infections down. Testing will be vital to understanding the spread of the virus and identifying those who are infected. A walk-through COVID test site has opened today at Roundmead Day Centre for booked appointments only. This site will serve the north of the borough and follows on from the ‘drop and collect’ testing service we piloted in Chelmsley Wood. You can find out more here.

Regional winter plan announced to protect rough sleepers

As rough sleepers face the double threat of harsh winter weather and the ongoing pandemic the region’s local authorities have come together to announce their joint winter plan for individuals at risk of rough sleeping.

In collaboration with the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), the Homelessness Taskforce, and partners from the public, private and voluntary sectors, a joint winter plan to help keep rough sleepers safe has been drawn up by local authorities across the region.

The plan is a commitment to keeping the most vulnerable people safe during winter to ensure that no one dies on the streets during severe weather.