How Leicestershire County Council is helping Harborough communities during lockdown

People across Harborough are being supported by Leicestershire County Council as the country battles its biggest crisis since the Second World War.

The council has already injected £1.5 million into communities while setting up 24/7 social care for older and vulnerable people.

A new report has set out how the authority is fighting to stop the virulent virus spreading as it unites with the NHS, emergency services and other councils to protect people.

Supporting vulnerable people remains a priority and the council is:

• Making sure 15,000 people written to by the NHS have support and care in place

• Hiked the cash fund for communities by £500,000 to £1.5million – £1.2million has already been awarded to help voluntary groups deliver crucial work. The council’s also considering a request from Bradgate Park Trust for a loan of £90,000

• Supporting schools to keep 160 open a day for vulnerable children and those of key workers

• Considering furloughing some staff who work in traded services – and would top salaries up to 100 per cent

• Providing extra mortuary space at Leicester General Hospital

• Running a telephone death registration service.

Cllr Byron Rhodes, the county council’s cabinet member for finance, said: “Our staff are working round the clock.

“This report underlines the difference they are making to people’s lives - and I’d like to thank them for their hard work and commitment.”

He stressed: “Our priority is supporting vulnerable people and delivering the critical support they need.

“It’s very hard to quantify the financial cost of coronavirus to the council.

“But the impact is vast and early estimates suggest it could total £50million.

“On top of extra adult social costs, coronavirus means reduced commercial income, reduced council tax and higher waste disposal, IT and construction costs.

“Extra Government funding is very welcome.

“But given the size of the impact on our already-stretched budget – coupled with the prospect of a deep recession - more will be needed.

“Perhaps three to four times the initial funding announced for local authorities will be required to balance the books in this financial year alone.

“Councils play a vital role in getting communities back on their feet and it’s clear there will be no blank cheque from Government.

“All of this must be paid for and clarity is needed.”