Slough has been placed in Tier 4 – a new tier announced by government to prevent the spread of covid-19 – it has been announced today (Saturday 19 December 2020).
Being in tier 4 means:
- Residents must stay at home and only travel for work, essential supplies and medical necessity
- Residents must work from home unless this isn’t possible
- Residents can only meet one other person outdoors in a public place
- Residents must not travel outside of Tier 4 unless for work or an emergency
- Residents cannot stay overnight anywhere else in the UK
- Residents cannot travel abroad
- Non essential shops, hair and beauty outlets, indoor entertainment venues, gyms and leisure centres must close
The relaxation in the regulations over Christmas has also been cancelled; with Tier 4 residents – including those in Slough – required to spend Christmas at home, only with those they live with.
Support bubbles are not affected by the new tier.
The announcement came amid a rise in cases across the south east and east of England, including in Slough along with increased details on a new strain of the virus which appears to spread far easier than the original strain.
As of today (Saturday) the current case rate in Slough is 405.2 per 100,000 of the population. In the over 60s it is 209.4 per 100,000 of the population and in those aged 17-21 the current rate is 617.8 per 100,000 of the population – the highest it has ever been.
In the week ending 4 December (the latest figures), a further four Slough residents died from covid.
Josie Wragg, chief executive of Slough Borough Council, said: “We know this will be devastating for many of our residents who had already made plans for the Christmas period but in Slough the rates of infection are increasing and increasing rapidly.
“The number of our residents in hospital because of covid is going up every week and tragically, more of our residents are dying each week from covid.
“I would urge each and every resident and business in Slough to follow the new regulations, to do everything they can to protect themselves, their families and communities.
“Though most people are trying their best, some people have been too complacent and seemingly unworried about how this horrible virus could affect them and others with a small minority dismissive of those who are already grieving for loved ones who have died from covid.
“Now we all have to live and struggle under these tougher regulations which will have a devastating effect on the mental health of many who were just hoping for a brief respite from the loneliness and restrictions of the past months.
“That hope is now gone and though there is hope in the new vaccine roll out we need to work together to get through this period, look after the most vulnerable, keep spreading love and cheer virtually so the new year can truly be a happier one.”
Remember those on their own can form a support bubble.
Information on how you can look after your mental health at this difficult time is on the Slough Public Health website.
Any resident on their own, unable to get essentials or medicines, or suffering loneliness is encouraged to call the One Slough community response team on 01753 944198 for help and support.
Advice and support can also be found on the council’s Coronavirus web pages.