Key workers remind residents to stay home again this weekend

With the sun continuing to shine across Kent and Medway, key workers continuing to provide a vital role during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic are reminding residents to stay at home this weekend and avoid putting a strain on the NHS.

Councils, the police, fire and rescue service and the NHS are working together day and night to ensure people across the county are receiving the support they need. Together, as part of the Kent Resilience Forum, they are urging against unnecessary travel.

On behalf of the Kent Resilience Forum, James Williams, Director of Public Health at Medway Council, said: “Agencies across Kent and Medway are pulling together to ensure the most vulnerable residents get the help they need and our health care colleagues are doing a tremendous job of treating those unwell with COVID and other illnesses; all we ask from you is that you continue to listen to government advice and stay home again this weekend. NHS staff are working tirelessly and it’s important we all do our bit to avoid putting a strain on the NHS.

“The latest modelling shows everyone’s commitment to the social distancing rules is having an impact and means we now expect fewer people to need hospital treatment in the coming weeks. But we’ve got to stick with it over the next few weeks. Another sunny weekend is approaching, but like you did over Easter please stay home, protect the NHS and save lives.

“You can go out for one piece of exercise a day in line with government advice, and this is important for your own health and wellbeing. If you do go out, stay close to home and two metres away from people outside of your household. Only take public transport if it is absolutely essential – train and bus operators are continuing to run services predominantly for key workers to ensure they can continue to support you during the pandemic. On behalf of the Kent Resilience Forum, we’d like to thank residents for doing their bit to stay at home and for sticking to social distancing rules if they make an essential trip.”

Leader of Medway Council Cllr Alan Jarrett, said: “Thank you to our residents for continuing to stay home during this time, unless the journey is essential. As the warmer spring weather continues, we are reminding residents not to travel unnecessarily, such as to the coast or country parks for a picnic or social gathering. Instead we ask you to enjoy the parks and green spaces near your home.

“We are also advising residents to avoid having bonfires as the smoke can impact people with COVID-19 symptoms who could be experiencing breathing difficulties, as well as people with respiratory conditions.

“We’re committed to continuing to provide support to you and our most vulnerable residents most in need and would like to thank everyone for doing their bit to help others stay safe during the pandemic.”

Kent Fire and Rescue Service continues to urge residents not to have bonfires. Assistant Director for Resilience, Lee Rose, said: “Please avoid having bonfires at this time, but if, however, you do choose to light one please do so safely and let your neighbours know to avoid concern, and give people the opportunity to close windows and doors.

“We’re also strongly advising people not to fly sky lanterns as a way of showing support for the NHS, as they can cause large-scale fires. Please choose safer ways to show your appreciation, like joining in with Clap for Carers at 8pm each Thursday.”

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