A joint statement from Coun Miles Parkinson, Leader of Hyndburn Council, Coun Marlene Haworth, Leader of the Opposition, and Sara Britcliffe, MP for Hyndburn and Haslingden

IN the run-up to eagerly awaited announcements on our national fight against Coronavirus, we had discussions with central government about what further restrictions may be imposed on Hyndburn and Lancashire to help curb the spread of this virus.

We understand that Lancashire is currently in Tier 2.

Given the high rates of infection and the need to ensure that vulnerable people are kept safe and that the NHS is not overwhelmed this is a situation that will need to be kept under review.

If further measures are necessary, we hope that these will be supported by local people and additional support from the Government to protect jobs and businesses.

In October, we mark World Mental Health Day and never has there been a better time to check in with friends and relatives; a phone call, video call or message can go a long way to support someone who may be feeling isolated.

This is a time to show someone you care by getting in touch and it could benefit you and your mental wellbeing too.

Doing our part to help everyone comes in many forms.

As well as ringing our loved ones, at the most basic level, washing your hands, wearing a face covering and keeping your distance from other people even outdoors all helps everyone.

Wearing a face covering helps to protect you and others from further spread of Coronavirus.

Many people with the virus do not show symptoms and wearing a face covering shows other people that you care.

We’ve seen some sparkling, spooky and even sporty masks on show around the borough; some of our market traders and local shops have a wide range to suit everyone.

One of the bigger requests that our community is asking of us at the moment is to isolate if you have been asked to by the NHS through its Test and Trace service.

Staying at home for two weeks can be difficult in many ways but there are incentives and support measures in place to make it easier: if the NHS instructs you to isolate and you cannot work from home and will lose pay as a result, you may be entitled to a Test and Trace Support Payment of £500 per working or self-employed adult in the household.

More details are at www.hyndburnbc.gov. uk/coronavirus .

If you need support with errands, shopping or advice on online supermarket slots, get in touch with the Hyndburn Hub on 01254 388111 or enquiries@ hyndburnbc.gov.uk.

Alongside our NHS, police and other public services, local government has been on the frontline of the response to the pandemic providing vital services and support to those who need it most.

We will continue to do this, and continue to make the case for Hyndburn to government.

We are proud of our community efforts and will continue to work with you to find the best way forward for Hyndburn.

Together, we can keep each other safe.