The fact that within a matter of a few days over the Christmas and New Year period South Kesteven went from Tier 3 restrictions, to Tier 4 and then national lockdown shows just how quickly the Coronavirus variant has swept across the country – and how serious we need to be about doing all we can to minimise the opportunity for it to continue spreading at such a rate.
We have all had to quickly re-adjust to life back under lockdown but communities, including our own, have risen to the challenge despite rapidly changing circumstances. Needless to say, at South Kesteven District Council we remain determined to maintain our essential services for our residents and businesses throughout this next phase of the pandemic.
It may be difficult to do so at times, but we must look for the light at the end of the tunnel and it is there in the form of the vaccinations that are now being given to those in the greatest need. It is a very welcome bonus that part of the Meres Leisure Centre in Grantham has been converted to a vaccination centre which means many appointments are being made available at a relatively convenient location as well as vaccinations being offered in Stamford through the St Mary's Surgery.
While this is a huge step forward in the efforts to subdue the virus it is important to remain patient and continue to follow Government guidance and take all possible precautions. The message is clear: Stay Home. Protect the NHS. Save Lives.
Testing station
Another positive move for residents of South Kesteven is that a mobile testing station for Coronavirus is now regularly setting up at St Martin’s Park, Stamford. This, in addition to other testing stations in the district, should further reduce the need to travel long distances to get tested.
The testing stations are available only to those who have Coronavirus symptoms and appointments must be booked in advance at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.
Business grants
SKDC’s economic growth and regeneration company, InvestSK, continues to support the business community with expert advice on the latest Government grants that are available, including those for retail, leisure and hospitality sector businesses forced to close.
InvestSK is working to ensure the grants go to those entitled to receive them and is also hosting its next online Tea Break event at 9.30am on Monday 25th January where information will be available. To find out more go to www.investsk.co.uk
Helping the homeless
SKDC takes very seriously its duty of care to those sleeping rough or who have other accommodation problems and there have recently been good a couple of good examples of how we can help.
Our Severe Weather Emergency Protocols – SWEP – is a voluntary council initiative, which has been triggered by cold snaps early this month and has seen us provide temporary shelter for rough sleepers who may not normally be eligible for statutory housing services. In fact, we encourage members of the public to report any rough sleepers so we can engage with them.
We have also completed a property conversion allowing us to house four homeless people and provide them with essentials such as bedding and toiletries. And they are receiving practical support to enable them to claim benefits, pursue job opportunities and secure longer-term accommodation for independent living.
These are practical ways in which SKDC helps people make a fresh start in life.
Leisure centres
LeisureSK Ltd, South Kesteven District Council’s new leisure company, has taken over operations at 1Life fitness centres in Grantham, Stamford, Bourne and the Deepings.
While Coronavirus, unfortunately, means they are closed for the time being this is a move that can only be good for customers and centre staff – and also provides value for money for Council Taxpayers.
LeisureSK Ltd is a company wholly-owned by SKDC, and will very much be looking forward to welcoming users when the centres re-open. I am convinced the change will have a positive impact on the wellbeing of residents by helping them to be active and stay healthy.
You can download the LeisureSK app from the App Store or Google Play and more information is available at www.leisuresk.co.uk
Finally, while there is no doubt that more tough times lie ahead, if we stick together and continue to help and support each other 2021 can be a year we will look back on and take pride in a job well done.
