Agenda item

Report of the Director of Community and Children’s Services.

Members received a report of the Director of Community and Children’s Services an providing an overview of local developments and policy issues related to the work of the Board where a full report is not necessary. An update regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) was included.

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Members were advised that COVID-19 was a developing situation in terms of cases, the countries affected and number of deaths. The current national alert level status of the UK was moderate, but this was subject to change on a daily basis. The City Corporation is following Public Health England’s (PHE) guidance including adhering to the "catch it, bin it, kill it" strategy for sneezing and coughing, and handwashing. Also, the four phases set out by Government in its response to the COVID-19: contain, delay, research and mitigate. External stakeholders are also being directed to this advice.

It was noted that plans were in place for staff, businesses, and the residential community in the City should the situation worsen including cancellation of mass gatherings if deemed necessary. HR advice was being followed and a communications plan in place to engage internally and externally.

With regards to the Port Health Service including the ports of London, the tidal Thames and Heathrow Airport, the Corporation continues to work with PHE to ensure there are no signs of illness on vessels, but it has remained business as usual.

A Member noted that the situation was constantly evolving and that even the daily data on reported cases was out of date. As this was a new virus, it was difficult to resolve as it was not yet understood.

RECEIVED.