The Leader of Rochford District Council, Cllr Simon Wootton, has issued the following statement regarding the new COVID-19 restrictions.

“After the Prime Ministers announcement last night it is very important that we continue to follow government guidelines and immediately abide by the new regulations. Public health must be the priority and this action is clearly needed to drive down case rates, save lives and protect the NHS.

“The simple steps of Hands, Face, Space, as well as working and staying at home, are the best ways of reducing the infection rate and reducing the pressure on our hospitals. The NHS continues to provide emergency care but if its not an emergency, think carefully about the best course of action, and use the NHS 111 service.

“Increased COVID-19 testing and vaccination roll-out give us hope going forward, but the danger is far from over. We will only get out of these tough measures if we all continue to follow the rules. I can’t stress enough how important it is for people to do everything they possibly can to protect themselves and their loved ones and by so doing protect all those who work in the NHS and the social care sector who are caring for our most vulnerable at this difficult time.

If you, or someone you know is vulnerable and without any support, you can contact Rochford District Community Response Hub on 01268 779999, for help.

Full details on restrictions can be found here:https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home