Thank you for your continued support for the national and local measures that you have taken in your households to reduce the spread of Covid-19.

From local media, you already know that the infection rates across the county as a whole have continued to decline and we know that this is because almost all are following government guidance. Currently, however, Nottinghamshire still remains above the England average and indeed the Mansfield district has infection rates that are amongst the highest in the country.

As the lockdown is eased, the commitment and vigilance of everyone across Nottinghamshire is still needed. This means everyone needs to carry on with the Hands, Face, Space rules, only meet others outdoors in a group of six or two households – and even then, keeping a distance of 2 metres. It means following the rules for any shop, hairdresser, pub, restaurant or gym we visit. As ever, if you have symptoms of Covid-19, it is essential that you get a free PCR test and isolate immediately.

We would also recommend people who do not display symptoms should get tested twice every week. Up to one third of people carrying the virus do not have symptoms so getting tested is an important way of defending ourselves, our families and communities from an early resurgence. You can find information about this here.

Please be aware that financial support for some families is being coordinated by the District Councils. From 28 September 2020, if you are on a low income, and are asked to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace, you may be entitled to a one-off payment of £500 from the Government’s Test and Trace Support Payment Scheme. From 8 March 2021, this scheme has been extended to include parents and guardians of children/young people who are not legally required to self-isolate themselves but they need to take time off work to care for a child or young person who has been told to self-isolate. The District and Borough councils within Nottinghamshire will issue the £500 payment to those who apply and are entitled to it. (Details can be found on District & Borough council websites) In addition, Nottinghamshire County Council coordinates the Nottinghamshire Coronavirus Community Support Hub which outlines the Social and Humanitarian Support that is available in the County.

If you or anyone in your household tests positive it is really important, and a legal obligation, that you and your household and bubble self-isolate immediately. Refusing to self-isolate is a breach of the

The Council is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring all personal information is kept confidential and safe. For more details see our general and service specific privacy notices at: https://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/global-content/privacy