Agenda item

The Service Lead - Public Health presented an overview of the current Covid-19 situation in Slough.

Members’ attention was drawn to the following key points:

• The rate of new cases in Slough (the 7-day rolling average) was now lower than the England and similar to the South East average.

• The mortality rate remained below the seasonal average, with no new deaths since the week ending 14th August.

• A new National Contain Framework had been announced on Monday 14^th October 2020.  The Framework set out three tiers of risk: medium, high risk, and very high risk.  Slough was currently on Tier 1: medium risk – but was close to being placed on Tier 2: high risk.

The Chair then invited comments and questions from Members.

During the course of the discussion, the following points were raised:

• A Member asked if the winter planning preparations had taken into consideration the possibility Slough could be placed on Tier 2 restrictions.  It was explained that a significant amount of winter planning had been undertaken, taking into account the impact of Covid.  It was noted that details of the Winter Plan 2020/21 would be considered under a later agenda item. 
• A Member asked how the ‘rule of six’ restrictions were being enforced.  It was explained that the police were responsible for enforcing the legislation.  CCTV monitoring was used to inform and identify areas gatherings were taking place.
• In relation to a potential second lockdown and an increased number of people having to self isolate, it was queried whether the ‘OneSlough’ initiative would be used to assist people with shopping and collecting medications.  It was confirmed that if restrictions were increased, service provision would be adjusted to reflect the circumstances.  The Government had been clear that NHS Volunteer Responders programme, implemented during the first lockdown would not be resumed.  It was noted that the OneSlough community response was reliant on volunteers and there was concern that people had become fatigued by the ongoing Covid situation.
• The Executive Place Managing Director explained that a virtual ward modal had been developed to support people with Covid and understand the demand on services.  It was reported that the nearest Nightingale Hospital to Slough was based in Surrey; it was agreed that further information regarding this provision would be provided to the Panel.
• Assurance was sought that arrangements were in place at Nightingale hospitals to ensure patient medical records could be readily accessed.  It was confirmed that robust arrangements were in place. 

Resolved – That the update report be noted.