COVID-19 Update
Due to the unprecedented position that this Council and the Nation find ourselves in regarding the spread of COVID-19 (Corona Virus), The Town Clerk met with the Leader and Deputy Leader of the Council this morning. A briefing with the Town Mayor followed and we can advise that the Council will continue to take government and public health advice. In anticipation that public gatherings are to be reduced and that some members of the community will be asked to self-isolate the council has determined to:
- Suspend Council and Committee Meetings with immediate effect until the end of June. (This will be reviewed as the spread and depth of the virus continues)
- Essential decisions will be taken under delegated authority, those decisions that can be deferred will be.
- Planning Recommendations for Mid Sussex DC will be determined by Delegated Decision with consultation of the committee via email.
- All delegated decisions will be published on the Council website for the public to view and circulated to the Councillors.
- Bookings: The Council will allow any hire bookings to postpone their event (where possible), or where cancelled will offer a full refund.
The Council continues to take the Government and Public Health England and NALC advice. We ask you to take care of your health and to check on neighbours and relatives.
Council offices
East Grinstead Town Council offices are currently closed to walk in visits. The staff are working from home where possible, the emails and phone lines are all open (9-4 Monday to Friday). Some are helping with the East Grinstead Emergency Action Group and some are undertaking front line services where it is not possible to work from home. Our groundsmen and caretaking team for example are still working where they can. They are all following social distancing and protective advice. Please do not approach our groundsmen or others if you see them working, please keep your distance and help to keep them safe. We hope to open again on 2 December 9am-12pm while the restrictions still exist in West Sussex.
Delegated decisions
See this page for more details on delegated decisions.
Risk Assessments
- Risk Assessment – COVID-19 – Public Toilets
- Risk Assessment – COVID-19 – Play Area (East Court Grounds)
Support for business
Yesterday the Government announced a significant package of measures to support businesses. Many of these measures, including business rates changes, will be administered by District Councils as soon as implementation arrangements have been confirmed by the Government. MSDC will not have full information yet, please watch their website for news.
An outline of the Government’s measures can be found here.
Volunteering
Local groups of volunteers are setting themselves up to assist the isolated. Church Groups are supporting their parishioners. There is also a multi-business and Age UK and Town Council helpline from Monday 23 March for anyone who is self isolating and needs help with groceries or even a meal to be delivered. This hotline is Monday – Saturday 01342 323636 (press 1). Please look after friends and family – a huge thank you to our retailers and food outlets who are making changes to help people during this uncertain time. A list of delivering eateries is on our website here.
Helpful links for advice and support
- Looking after your mental health and wellbeing from #EveryMindMatters. Support and resources are available.
- Sign up for the Carers Emergency Alert Card today. This FREE scheme helps identify you as a family or friend carer so the person you care for can be supported if you have an accident or are taken ill.
- Waste Recycling Sites – We have developed a plan, subject to further government guidance, to safely reopen Household Waste Recycling Sites (HWRSs) next week (week commencing 11 May). The date will be confirmed later this week when further guidance on managing the reopening of sites will be released by central government.
- Crimestoppers have shared some tips and advice to help keep you safe from scams and fraud. If you believe you have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, contact www.actionfraud.police.uk
- Supporting family and friends – People are playing their part and providing essential support to their friends and family who are in isolation, to find out how to help others safely
- How to deal with scam texts and emails
- Teens chance become cyber security agents – Virtual cyber school has been launched to give teens the chance to try out as cyber security agents from home
- Domestic Abuse – Practical Planning Steps to reduce the risk