My £1.6bn for unsung council heroes who keep Britain moving
LAST week the Government announced that the current restrictive measures will need to stay in place for at least the next three weeks.we must remain united and keep up this great national effort for a while longer to protect the NHS and save lives.
As the Cabinet Minister responsible for local government, it has been clear to me that this national emergency requires a local response, and I have worked with colleagues inwestminster and local government to put one in place since the start.
The battle will be won in every home, street, village and town. Each of us has an opportunity to contribute to the country that we love by playing our part and looking out for those around us.
Councils are on the front line and are facing additional pressures and unique challenges, which is why I am announcing huge new funding to help alleviate this pressure.
We are making available an additional £1.6billion to support them and protect vital services.
There hasn’t been an operation on this scale since the Secondworldwar. I would like to extend my gratitude to those in local government working around the clock to support communities during this crisis. From the council workers supporting the most vulnerable to the binmen and women running essential waste collections, you are the unsung heroes who are keeping our country moving.
Thank you to each and every one of you – your unwavering commitment will never be forgotten.
We still have a long way to go but the social fabric of this country is stronger than ever, and together we will get through this.
There is light at the end of the tunnel. If we stick together, we will see this dark period through and turn the tide on coronavirus once and for all.