MyWestminster - 21 December 2020

[Westminster City Council]

Important updates for Westminster residents

https://www.westminster.gov.uk/coronavirus-advice-and-information?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651
View this email in your browser (https://mailchi.mp/westminster/mywestminster-coronavirus-update-144454?e=7e37558eca)
https://www.westminster.gov.uk/?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651


** Monday 21 December 2020
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** Public Health Updates
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https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651

Westminster is now in Tier 4 (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-4-stay-at-home?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) , which means everyone should stay at home as much as they can. Unfortunately, this means we can no longer continue with Christmas as planned. These stronger restrictions are needed because the virus is now spreading rapidly - so it is important we all follow the new rules.

The new restrictions mean that you cannot meet other people indoors, including over the Christmas period, unless you live with them, or they are part of your existing support bubble. Outdoors, you can only meet one person from another household.

Other rules that need to be followed in Tier 4 are as follows:

* You must stay home
* All non-essential retail must close
* Personal care such as hairdressers must close
* Indoor gyms and leisure centres must close
* Work from home if you can
* You should not enter or leave the Tier 4 area
* You can meet one other person outside your household in an outdoor public space
* Communal worship is allowed if COVID-secure

A formal review of the restrictions will take place on December 30.

Christmas:
* You can no longer continue with Christmas as planned.
* You must not mix with anyone outside your household over Christmas, unless they are part of your support bubble.

Visit the Government's website for the latest information (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-4-stay-at-home?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .
https://www.westminster.gov.uk/CovidTest?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651
GOT SYMPTOMS? GET TESTED: Testing is the most effective way to control the spread of coronavirus. Westminster is now offering two types of coronavirus testing:
* For people who have symptoms of the virus (a new persistent cough, high temperature or a loss or change in sense of smell or taste)
* For people who are not showing any symptoms (symptom-free testing)

Click here for full details of testing sites, opening times and how to book a test (https://www.westminster.gov.uk/CovidTest?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .

MENTAL HEALTH: Following the Government’s weekend announcement to place London into tier 4, we understand that many residents may be feeling anxious, low and frustrated at the change to their Christmas plans.

We recognise how difficult this year has been and the last minute change for Christmas is upsetting. We want to reassure our residents that we’re working very hard to continue to keep you all safe. We appreciate how communities have come together to help each other and we ask that you continue to do so.

As a result of these changes, we also understand that some residents may feel lonely and face isolation. If you need support with your mental health, please visit our website where a wealth of services are available to support you (https://www.westminster.gov.uk/mental-health-advice-support?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) during (and beyond) this festive period.


** Support Services
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ADVICE FOR THE EXTREMELY CLINICALLY VULNERABLE: Under Tier 4 restrictions, those who are extremely clinically vulnerable are advised to stay at home as much as possible, except to go outdoors for exercise or to attend health appointments. You are strongly advised to work from home, and if you cannot make alternative arrangements, your employer may be able to furlough you under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-if-you-could-be-covered-by-the-coronavirus-job-retention-scheme?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .

You can find more information on getting help with food or medicine delivery as well as local support services on our website (https://www.westminster.gov.uk/coronavirus-advice-vulnerable-residents?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .

Read the full guidance for those who are shielding on the Government website. (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651)

https://www.westminster.gov.uk/westminster-connects?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651

WESTMINSTER CONNECTS: If you need help or you know of anyone who needs help as a result of COVID-19, Westminster Connects is here for you. Please call 020 7641 1222 (9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday) or email westminsterconnects at westminster.gov.uk (mailto:westminsterconnects at westminster.gov.uk) .

Please note the Westminster Connects helpline is closed from 25 - 28 December 2020 and on 1 January 2021. If you need urgent help during these times, please call the council on 020 7641 6000.

CORONAVIRUS VACCINE: The NHS in North West London have started to deliver the Covid-19 vaccine to the over 80s, in line with the Government’s priority list (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/priority-groups-for-coronavirus-covid-19-vaccination-advice-from-the-jcvi-2-december-2020?dm_i=5438,AU0J,30R7CU,18CA9,1&utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .

The NHS will get in touch with you directly when it is your turn to be vaccinated. You do not need to contact your doctor or the NHS. It will take time to vaccinate everyone in this first group. Visit the NHS website for more information on the roll out of the vaccine (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/coronavirus-vaccine/?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .


** Council Services
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HOUSING SERVICES: The North area housing service centre will be closed from tomorrow, Tuesday 22 December until Tuesday 29 December. Click here for more information on housing services (https://www.westminster.gov.uk/yourhousing/coronavirus?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .

MARKETS: Stalls and kiosks selling essential goods such as food can remain open. Read more information here (https://www.westminster.gov.uk/coronavirus-advice-markets?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .

LIBRARIES AND ARCHIVES: Westminster’s libraries and the Archives Centre are offering a reduced service under the new Tier 4 measures, in line with Government guidance. Our libraries and Archives Centre are open to provide:
* 'Select and collect' services for collecting reservations and returning library items
* Access to computers for essential use (not available at Marylebone Library)

There will be no access to other areas of the libraries including study spaces during this time. Note: Paddington Children's Library and Westminster Music Library are still closed.

Returned items will be quarantined for 72 hours. Library items on loan will continue to be automatically renewed, there will be no overdue or reservation charges during this period and any account which has been suspended will be temporarily reinstated to ensure everyone can access the library items they need. Click here for more information (https://www.westminster.gov.uk/libraries?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .


** Council News
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https://youtu.be/qFqIEmgxKGs?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651
WHAT ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR? Phil from Young Westminster Foundation tells us what he's grateful for this year. Just like him, we're grateful for all the youth services, charities and partners who have worked with us to support children and young people across Westminster. Their endless efforts to provide online activities to help children keep fit and active, as well as offering practical advice during these challenging times, have been amazing.

We want to hear from other Westminster residents. Send us a picture, note or video telling us what you are grateful for. Email communications at westminster.gov.uk (mailto:communications at westminster.gov.uk) or contact us through our Twitter (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=5652a1bf2e&e=f254563f09&utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) , Facebook (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=004c3889c3&e=f254563f09&utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) or Instagram (https://westminster.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a50c8b0dd980669ef713b4cca&id=1fe6628266&e=f254563f09&utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) channels, tagging @CityWestminster and using the hashtags #grateful and #westminster.

WINTER YOUTH ACTIVITIES: The council and partners have brought together an action-packed programme of fun activities to enrich the lives of young people during the Christmas holidays. Each day across the holiday period we’ll be adding new activities that you can do at home during the lockdown period. Keep an eye on the Westminster Youth Connected (http://www.westminster.gov.uk/westminster-youth-connected?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) site and Family Information Service (https://fisd.westminster.gov.uk/kb5/westminster/fis/advice.page?id=hULkAQMJcu0&utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) for daily updates and details of activities for young people across the winter break.

Today we’ve featured;
* The Libraries Christmas Carol Service which is broadcasting live on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/wcclibraries?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/wcclibrariesandarchives/?hl=en&utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) ,
* Lords 21-day countdown (https://www.lords.org/mcc/mcc-in-the-community/countdown-to-2021?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) with a new challenge every day till the new year,
* And, a series of stories called One Duck Down (https://youtu.be/7_Khyg_m8L0?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) from QEII School (https://www.qe2cp.westminster.sch.uk/page/?title=Queen+Elizabeth+II+Jubilee+School&pid=3&utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651)

We’ll be updating the calendar each day with new activities that are great for children of all ages and different abilities.
https://www.westminster.gov.uk/christmas-hampers-delivery-residents-westminster?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651
CHRISTMAS HAMPER DELIVERIES: Over the last few weeks, the Council worked alongside voluntary partners, businesses and Westminster Connects volunteers to deliver over a thousand hampers to elderly residents, plus hundreds of vouchers to families in need and looked after children.

Sir Simon Milton Foundation, Weatherby Prep School, South Westminster BIDs, Lord’s Cricket Ground and Willmott Dixon all contributed to help spread some festive cheer to Westminster residents. Read more here (https://www.westminster.gov.uk/christmas-hampers-delivery-residents-westminster?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .
https://www.westminster.gov.uk/major-milestone-strandaldwych-improvements?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651
MAJOR MILESTONE FOR STRAND / ALDWYCH IMPROVEMENTS: The Council has given approval to implement £18m of improvements works to the Strand/Aldwych gyratory. Work is scheduled to begin next year to deliver ambitious plans that will transform a historic gateway to the West End into a world class, traffic-free public space and provide a massive shot in the arm for the local economy. Some key benefits of the works will include:
* A world class new public space to showcase the very best that local institutions can offer
* Improved air quality, with traffic removed from one of London’s most polluted streets with more greening and trees on the Aldwych and Strand
* A better experience for pedestrians and cyclists that is more people-friendly
* Greatly improved connections to Covent Garden, the City, Holborn and the West End

Improvement plans for Strand/Aldwych have been in development for several years, but the Council and local partners are keen to see works start as soon as possible, following favourable public consultations and engagement, to support the city’s recovery from the damaging effects of the pandemic. Read more here (https://www.westminster.gov.uk/major-milestone-strandaldwych-improvements?utm_source=MyWestminster+Updates&utm_campaign=1825a64a39-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_22_10_27_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_bd2a0fcc47-1825a64a39-40059651) .


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