Derby’s Outbreak Engagement Board met for the second time on Wednesday 12 August to update on its progress in preventing potential rises in COVID-19 cases and communicating with residents.
Following the meeting, the board is encouraging Derby residents to ensure they enjoy their summers but do so as safely as possible.
Although meeting up with other households outside is now possible, this can only be safe when social distancing is adhered to and hygiene measures, such as handwashing, are regular.
These guidelines are paramount in preventing growth in positive COVID-19 cases in Derby, though there are still ways to enjoy the summer and warm weather safely and responsibly. Meeting up outside in groups of six or less, with social distancing adhered to, is allowed in parks and other outdoor spaces across the city.
There was also discussion on ensuring that residents feel safe and confident to enjoy the city centre for a bit of retail therapy or to meet a friend or family member for a drink. While Derbians are encouraged to enjoy the reopened high streets, it is vital that social distancing is adhered to in these settings and that any test and trace details in restaurants or pubs are accurately provided and recorded.
Further plans are also underway to examine and continually review the compliance and effectiveness of social distancing measures in district centres to ensure that Derby’s high streets can be rebuilt following the lockdown period. Many measures have already been put in place to reassure shoppers and employees, such as the introduction of one-way pedestrian routes, additional signage for businesses, and street and pavement markings, enabling shoppers and workers to observe social distancing.
The board also acknowledged that this may be a particularly difficult time for children and young people who have been at home during the lockdown period and may be approaching stressful times such as exam results and are soon returning to school.
As part of plans to communicate effectively with residents throughout the pandemic period, the board and partners aim to engage with young people and parents to ensure as smooth as possible transition back to school.
Councillor Chris Poulter, Leader of Derby City Council and Chair of the Outbreak Engagement Board said:
After what has been a difficult period worldwide, we do want residents to be able to enjoy the warmer weather and ensure that they can have a break from work, exams and all of life’s stresses. This is particularly true for children and younger people, who may now be feeling somewhat cooped up after spending a lot more time at home than usual. However, we must encourage people to do so safely and within current COVID-19 guidelines. There are plenty of ways to still enjoy the summer by meeting in groups of six or less outdoors, so do make the most of days outside with friends and family.
Dr Robyn Dewis, Acting Director of Public Health, said:
The Government guidelines will mean that the way we enjoy the summer and warm days may be different from previous years. However, it is important that Derby residents remember that we are all playing a part in reducing the potential transmission of the virus by continuing to keep themselves and others safe with social distancing and hygiene measures. So please do make the most of the warm days in a safe, considered way.