Cumbria County Council have produced a Cost of Living Public Information Leaflet that provides local information for Cumbrian residents on a range of helpful topics.

Cost of Living Booklet (cumbria.gov.uk)

Including information about: Financial Support Food Support Domestic Abuse Support Mental Health Support

ALSO 

A number of bits of funding have been announced nationally recently to help with the rise in the cost of living - the national schemes announced by the chancellor are summarised here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cost-of-living-support/cost-of-living-support-factsheet-26-may-2022
 
Locally, Cumbria County Council's Cabinet yesterday approved £2m funding to support a range of measures, including more support linked to free school meals, including increases in school uniform grants:
https://news.cumbria.gov.uk/News/2021/schoolclothinggrantsreceive500kboost.aspx
 
We know there are likely to people who are eligible for free schools meals who aren't currently claiming them - so it'd be really helpful if people could publicise the information about how to do so, and the additional benefits that are linked to them - all in the press release above.
 

Judging is Saturday 4th June

Get decorating your house and garden and put your Royal Scarecrows ready for the competition!

Please note that the June meeting is cancelled and the July meeting is rearranged date to be confirmed.

Have you seen the new Information Board next to the Aqueduct and Jubilee Garden?
When old information table on top of the Aqueduct fell into disrepair, The Canal and River Trust who owned it did not want it, but two residents volunteered to restore it and it now stands near the Jubilee Garden at the foot of the Aqueduct steps. Many thanks to the volunteers who have worked so hard to keep this interesting addition to the canal path alive.

Please see this factsheet for further informations click here

Message from the South Cumbria and Lancashire Resilience Hub.  We are a dedicated team that has been established to work with NHS and social care staff (including those working in care homes and providing domiciliary care), other blue light staff and community volunteers who may be struggling with their mental wellbeing as a consequence of their experiences during the COVID pandemic.

Support is available for individuals and their families; it is also available for groups and can be provided either face-to-face or virtually.
 Lancashire and South Cumbria Resilience Hub - Resilience Hub (lscresiliencehub.nhs.uk) 
Or ring: 01772 520 228.

After so many storm warnings it is wonderful to post some more uplifting news - the spring bulbs are up in the Millennium Field!

Storm Franklin has now passed but it has left some devastation in its path, which has predominantly been in South Lakeland. 
 
Unfortunately, there were a number of areas across South Lakeland which were without power and at 10am this morning there were 2,790 homes being reported by ENW in need of restoration.  The Cumbria LRF has met during the day to keep updated on the situation and to prepare for any support that may be needed. 
 
Each of the faults were well resourced by ENW and the power started to reconnect fairly quickly.  ENW were also calling all of their vulnerable customers as well as sending people out to do welfare checks.
 
While ENW are currently working on faults and issues in a number of areas, there remain 2 areas of specific concern, which ENW have fully resourced plans in place for. The whole of Coniston village has been off for most of the day but they are now coming back online.  Spark Bridge is due to be resolved by 4pm tomorrow at the latest.  There are businesses in the area offering hot meals for those affected.
 
Please could you encourage people to call 105 to register electricity faults and/or to register themselves as requiring extra help, if they are not currently on the priority services register. As always, anything which is a threat to life should be called through to 999.
 
We have also been sharing the information below, which you are welcome to pass on to others.
 
For the latest information and updates follow:

• Cumbria Police on twitter @CumbriaPolice or on Facebook here
• Cumbria County Council on Twitter at @CumbriaCC of on Facebook here

 
To report any issues or if you need help for yourself or someone vulnerable please see the following agencies contact details.
 
·       Electricity North West on 105, but please only call if your query is urgent to help prioritise customers in the most vulnerable circumstances. For more information, please visit www.enwl.co.uk. For further updates on power cuts, you can visit www.enwl.co.uk/powercuts   or you can follow Electricity North West on Twitter or Facebook
·       For water supply issues contact United Utilities on 0345 672 3723
·       Contact www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it  or call 101 if you have concerns about your own safety and well-being, or the safety and well-being of someone you know. If there is an immediate risk to life call 999.
·       If you wish to report a problem on the county’s roads, please report online via the County Council website - Highways | Cumbria County Council
·       If you are open to Cumbria County Council’s Adult Social Care, have care and support needs and these needs cannot be met due to the power outage ,please contact Adult Social Care on 0300 303 3589
·       Keep up-to-date with the weather at www.metoffice.gov.uk
·       For latest traffic and roads information visit www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic
 
You are welcome to share this information with your networks and the wider community – apologies if you have received this from other sources, we’re sure you’ll understand that it’s being circulated widely and some duplication will occur.
 
Thank you,
 
South Lakeland Area Support Team

If you or someone close to you is dying, you can talk to us.
At the Anne Robson Trust we aim to be there to listen to anyone who is struggling with the imminent death of someone they care about.  We know that facing the end of life can leave you isolated and alone.
Calls are free and confidential – Call us on 0808 801 0688
Being able to access support whilst a loved one is dying is really important for a number of reasons. Gaining knowledge of what may happen towards the end and having a sense of ‘preparedness’ helps both the person dying and their family gain as much control as possible.
Please visit www.annerobsontrust.org.uk/helpline-service to find out more.
 

COVID Update - 6 January  Message Sent By Joseph Murray (NWN, MSA, Cumbria)


A great deal of information, however, I'm sure you will find this both useful and informative.

New cases of COVID-19 in Cumbria have skyrocketed as 10,367 new cases were recorded in the week ending 31 December - an increase of 5,701 or 122% compared to the week previous (4,666 new cases). The current rate is three times higher than the previous peak in January 2021.
Rates in all districts except Eden were also above the national average rate (England 1,625 cases per 100k population). In the week ending Tuesday 4 January, the number of new patients admitted to hospital in Cumbria with COVID-19 Positive status increased by 22 from the previous week. The average number of patients with COVID-19 in hospital beds in the County also increased by 75 compared to the previous week.
The full COVID-19 situation report can be found at www.cumbria.gov.uk/stopthespread.

Colin Cox, Cumbria's Director of Public Health
“The rate at which COVID is spreading in Cumbria and indeed the rest of the UK is truly alarming right now. “Thankfully, it does appear this variant is milder than previous ones, but the focus now must be on protecting our NHS and care services. “That’s why we must all remain incredibly cautious over the coming weeks and bring the case rates down. Continue to get tested regularly and self-isolate if you’re positive. Keep your distance from others wherever possible. Wash your hands regularly and wear face masks in busy public spaces.
“Also, please make sure you get your first, second or booster vaccines as soon as you possibly can. If you haven’t had your first or second vaccine yet, it’s not too late. You won’t be judged or asked why by anyone – but please book it now.”

Local NHS leaders: "NHS is still here for you"Peter Rooney, Chief Operating Officer for NHS North Cumbria Clinical Commissioning Group, said:“As everyone will be aware there are extremely high levels of COVID circulating in our communities, parts of Cumbria have the highest levels in the country. This is having a significant impact on staffing across all our health and care services.
“It is important that people know the NHS is here for you if you need help – especially those with an urgent need, such as a suspected stroke, chest pains or concerns about cancer. But we would urge people to consider using 111 online for less urgent health concerns and be understanding of the pressures on staff who are doing their very best in challenging circumstances. “We would also urge friends and relatives of people who may be particularly vulnerable to ensure they are being well supported.”

Dr Geoff Jolliffe, Clinical Chair at NHS Morecambe Bay Clinical Commissioning Group, said:
“Many GP practices across our region are currently facing unprecedented pressure due to significant staffing shortages. “At this time, all our practices remain open and are contactable via the usual channels - however, we do ask that patients utilise the full range of services available in the community, such as pharmacies for minor ailments and illnesses.
“While the pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on our region, we are determined to keep as many planned care services running to catch up the COVID-19 backlog, so if someone has an appointment for an assessment or diagnostic procedure, or other treatment, it’s important they attend.
“Many patients are experiencing symptoms they would normally associate with common respiratory tract infections, such as headaches, sore throat, a runny nose, and coughs – these should be regarded as possible Covid and you must have a PCR test at the earliest opportunity. Please don’t ignore it then carry on as normal.
“If you do require a GP appointment, please note that staff are working under considerable pressure and remember to be patient and be kind.”

People with a positive LFT now won't have to take a PCR to confirm their result.
From 11 January in England, people who receive positive lateral flow device (LFD) test results for coronavirus (COVID-19) will be required to self-isolate immediately and won’t be required to take a confirmatory PCR test.
This is a temporary measure while COVID-19 rates remain high across the UK. Whilst levels of COVID-19 are high, the vast majority of people with positive LFD results can be confident that they have COVID-19.
Self-isolation guidanceGuidance in relation to self-isolation for people who have tested positive for COVID-19 changed on 22 December.

• People who receive negative LFD results on day 6 and day 7 of their self-isolation period – with tests taken 24 hours apart – do not have to self-isolate for the full 10 days. The first test must be taken no earlier than day 6 of the self-isolation period.
• If your LFD test result is positive you must complete your 10 day self-isolation period.
• Those who leave self-isolation on or after day 7 are strongly advised to limit close contact with other people in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, work from home and minimise contact with anyone who is at higher risk of severe illness if infected with COVID- 19.
• There is no change to the guidance for unvaccinated contacts of positive COVID-19 cases, who are still required to self-isolate for 10 full days after their date of exposure to the virus.

Press Release from UK Health Security Agency
Stay at home: guidance for households with possible or confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) infection


What you can do to stay safe and protect yourself and your community
Vaccination is the best protection against becoming seriously ill from COVID-19.You can get your booster dose 3 months after your second vaccine dose. Book your booster vaccination appointment or find a walk-in vaccination site.
People aged 18 or over can pre-book a booster dose appointment 2 months after their second vaccine dose.
If you have not yet been vaccinated you can still book.
Walk-in sessions available for Covid Boosters and VaccinationsA number of vaccination ‘Walk-in’ sites are also available in north Cumbria providing more opportunities for people to get their jabs.
Walk-in sites in north Cumbria include: 

• Carlisle - St Paul's Church
• Seascale Pharmacy
• Penrith - Newton Rigg Campus
• Kirkby Stephen - Upper Eden Baptist Church (GreenTree Pharmacy)

People are still asked to book appointments in advance for sites, wherever possible, to help vaccination teams to manage their vaccine supplies.
Further information on these sites with links to dates, times and the vaccinations available at: https://northcumbriaccg.nhs.uk/walkins 

It is still possible to catch and spread COVID-19, even if you are fully vaccinated. That's why it's important we all follow the latest guidance to help stop the spread.
The Plan B guidance is:

• Get vaccinated and get your booster dose
• Wear a face covering in most indoor public places and on public transport
• Work from home, if you can
• Let fresh air in if you meet indoors. Meeting outdoors is safer
• Get tested and self-isolate if required

Remember, Hands, Face, Space, Fresh air. These simple infection prevention measures work. There is no debate about it.

• Follow the guidance and wear a mask when you are in enclosed spaces.
• Wash your hands regularly
• Keep indoor spaces well ventilated, or meet outdoors
• Keep your distance from people you don't regularly meet with.

Testing
Doing a Lateral Flow Test before you meet with people makes sense.Lateral Flow tests are quick and easy to do. Checking if you have COVID-19 before you meet friends and loved ones is an easy decision to make.
You can order them online for free. Alternatively, you can pick up test kits at your local pharmacy.
Fully vaccinated contacts of someone with COVID-19 should take rapid lateral flow tests every day for 7 days. If you test positive or develop symptoms, you need to self-isolate for 10 days. People who receive negative LFD results on day 6 and day 7 of their self-isolation period – with tests taken 24 hours apart – do not have to self-isolate for the full 10 days. Find out when to self-isolate and what to do on the NHS website.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms, book a PCR test and self-isolate.
To find out more about testing in Cumbria, visit the Cumbria County Council website. 
Help the NHS copeDemand on the NHS has never been higher. Seek help if you need it, but choose wisely.All NHS services will continue to provide the care you need, when you need it, but it’s important we do all we can to reduce pressure on these services whenever possible – and the best way to do that is by choosing the right NHS service at the right time:

• Call 111 – 24-hour advice on any healthcare need
• Pharmacy – think pharmacy first where there are trained professionals who can prescribe medicines and give advice
• GP – for ongoing or persistent medical issues
• Minor injuries and Urgent Treatment centres – for urgent but not life-threatening issues
• A&E - for life-threatening and serious emergencies only

Could you volunteer and support efforts to fight COVID-19? If you would like to volunteer to help, register at Support Cumbria.


Be prepared and look after yourself
Have a plan for what you will do if you get infected. Make sure you have what you need.If you are ill at home and have to self-isolate, do you have what you need? 

• Stock up your medicine cupboard
• Make sure you have phone numbers for family, friends or neighbours who could do your food shopping for you.
• Make a note of key support helplines just in case.

For advice, support and guidance on topics such as heating your home and making sure you have enough food, to travel advice in extreme weather and what to do in a crisis, visit cumbria.gov.uk/winterready.
Ask for help if you need itIf you are struggling there is help available. Don't be afraid to ask.Cumbria County Council can provide urgent help and emergency support, including basic food and essential items, or if you are struggling to cope with your current situation for whatever reason.
Call the county council's Support Helpline on 0800 783 1966 (Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm, Friday 9am to 4.30pm).
You can also email [email protected] and you will receive a response within one working day.
Support your community and be kindLook out for your friends and neighbours, especially if they are old or vulnerable.Looking out for the people in your community makes a huge difference. Check in with your neighbours and vulnerable people in your community, check they have what they need.
And remember, the pandemic is putting people under immense pressure, not everything is working as it would normally, but people are trying their best, so be patient and be kind as we all try and get through this.

​The wonderful dry summer weather was followed by an extremely wet autumn. Since Storm Desmond in 2015, the local authorities have restructured the way they monitor the river levels and manage potential flooding. During the very wettest period in late October, they were meeting every 2 hours and their communication with Parish Councils was excellent. This bodes well for the future. We post important information like weather warnings and road closures on our Parish Facebook Page so please keep an eye on those posts.

We have received the following information from Highways England
This email is to inform you of road marking renewal works being planned at various sections along the A590 between Ulverston and Brettargh Holt Roundabout. Works are expected to start at the beginning of October and run for approximately five weeks.
Various traffic management arrangements will be required to carry out these works safely, though all work will be done at night. It’s anticipated that nine nights will require full closures of the A590 at points between Newby Bridge and Brettargh Holt. A diversion route via Windermere will be well signed.
More details will be provided closer to the anticipated start date.
Any queries about the work, please contact us on 0300 123 5000. Or you can email us on [email protected].

For Immediate Release 18 June 2021
 
Cumbrians aged 12-30 asked to get tested as Delta variant cases rise

Cumbria County Council and NHS Test and Trace are asking every person living and working in Cumbria between the ages of 12 and 30 to get a PCR test for COVID-19, even if they do not have symptoms.
This is because new COVID-19 infections are rising fastest among this age group. By getting as many people as possible tested, those who are infectious can be identified and asked to self-isolate to help stop infection spreading.
Tests will be conducted using PCR test kits, not the rapid result Lateral Flow Device tests that are used for regular weekly testing.
People not at school can attend any of Cumbria’s testing sites between 8am and 8pm from 19 June 2021. You do not need to book your test, simply walk-in and you will be tested.
Parents/carers of school age children will be informed of testing arrangements by their child’s school.
If you cannot attend a test site you can get a test kit delivered to your home via https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test. Choose the “I have been advised to get a test by local Public Health officials” option.

Full details at: www.cumbria.gov.uk/stopthespread 
 Test site locations:

• Carlisle RTS, Carlisle Lake District Airport, Irvington, Carlisle, CA6 4NW
• Carlisle Cecil Street LTS, Cecil Street Car Park, Carlisle, CA1 1NX
• Penrith Sandgate Car Park LTS, Penrith Sandgate Car Park, 32 Albert Street, Penrith, CA11 7XA
• West Cumbria Allerdale House LTS, Allerdale House Overflow Car Park, Workington, CA14 9SA
• Barrow-in-Furness Town Hall LTS, Barrow Town Hall Courtyard, Cornwallis Street, Barrow, LA14 2LG
• Copeland Castle Meadows LTS, Castle Meadows Car Park, Whitehaven, CA28 7RG
• Kendal County Hall LTS, Kendal County Hall Car Park, Busher Walk, Kendal, LA9 4RQ

If you test positive, develop any symptoms, or are contact traced following contact with someone who tests positive, you should self-isolate immediately.
Cumbria’s Director of Public Health, Colin Cox, said:
“Infections are spiking in Cumbria and while they are still lower than our neighbouring counties, without action we can expect many more people to become ill.
 “Infections are rising fastest among young people. That’s why it is critical everyone aged 12-30 in Cumbria take a PCR test this week – regardless of whether they have symptoms or not.
 “Getting as many people tested as possible will help us find those people are infectious but don’t know it, this is an important way we can slow the spread.
 “I know it’s an inconvenience to do this, but it’s a simple process and as we’ve seen this week with the Prime Minister’s announcement, if we don’t get the virus back under control we can expect restrictions to remain in place which is something none of us want.”
Infections have risen from 35 cases per week at the end of May to 250 per week now, and concerns have grown that many Cumbrians remain vulnerable to the virus.
Nearly 150,000 Cumbrians have not been vaccinated yet and around 85,000 people have so far only received one dose of the vaccine. People who have only had one dose have significantly less protection from the new Delta variant of the virus which is now circulating.
ENDS

 
 

The Millennium Field's adult outdoor gym equipment is now open following the recent change in restrictions on the roadmap to easing lockdown#3. Please observe the COVID-19 safety restrictions that are still in place and are displayed at the gate.  

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