Issue - meetings

To receive a Covid-19 update report which summarises recent developments on an exception basis.

The Committee considered a Covid-19 update report which summarised recent developments on an exception basis.

The Executive Director of Corporate Services informed the Committee that since the report was published, the infection rate in Cheshire East had increased to 341 cases per 100,000 population.

The Executive Director also drew attention to a report published by the National Audit Office on Initial Learning from the Government’s response to Covid-19 which contained some useful insights for local authorities.

In answer to members’ questions, it was reported that:

·         Variations in the numbers of people receiving vaccinations in different wards were due to demographic differences such as some wards having a younger age profile but efforts were being made to target the harder to reach sections of the community.

·         The position regarding the vaccination of 12-15 years olds and the provision of booster vaccinations for the elderly was still in flux and the Council was preparing for a number of scenarios. Further information could be provided on request.

·         With regard to the wearing of masks at wedding ceremonies, there was a need for the Council to ensure the safety of its registration staff, as well as guests.

·         With regard to the additional top-up grant to support local businesses, the communications plan was ready to roll out in the next two to three weeks, using various media platforms and external partners. Further information regarding the policy for administering the grant could be provided on request.

·         Further detailed financial and other information relating to the Council’s response to the Covid pandemic would be reported to the relevant service committees.

·         A report on progress with the various initiatives around the training and retraining of young people and supporting them into the workforce or further education would be submitted to a future meeting of the Children and Families Committee and could also be included in a future Covid-19 update report.

RESOLVED

That the report be noted.