Leicestershire County Council vows to keep critical public services running in these “unprecedented times”

The leader of Leicestershire County Council has vowed to keep critical public services running in these “unprecedented times”.

Cllr Nick Rushton pledged to continue to support vulnerable people, children, waste disposal and public health as the coronavirus outbreak deepens.

He also urged people across Harborough and county-wide to “heed advice” as many tough challenges lie ahead over the next few months.

Cllr Rushton told the Harborough Mail: “Our focus is keeping critical services running, particularly those supporting vulnerable people such as our children’s and adults’ services, coroners, urgent road repairs, waste disposal and public health.”

The Conservative county council leader stressed: “These are unprecedented times.

“I understand residents may be feeling unsettled but it’s important people heed the national advice.

“Life will be different for many weeks and months, which will bring challenges.

“But the national plans are designed to slow the spread so that lives can be saved.

“We are taking the necessary immediate and longer-term steps to support and protect residents, staff and partners.”

Cllr Rushton added: “As I’m sure you understand, some events will be cancelled.

“So keep in touch by following the national guidance, our website and social media channels.”

He spoke after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced dramatic new measures set to minimise social contact.

They include working from home, self-isolating for 14 days if anyone in a household has symptoms and avoiding non-essential travel and pubs, clubs, restaurants and theatres.

Cllr Rushton said the county council is:

Ensuring staff can run critical services – public health, adults, children’s, regulatory services, urgent road repairs and waste disposal

Asking staff to work from home, where possible

Cancelling events such as a recruitment open day, adult learning courses, some theatre and attraction events – country parks are open

Focusing library services on main library buildings but loans of books and materials will be for an extended period

Looking at how the council can protect the most vulnerable – for example, cancelling day services and short breaks for people with learning disabilities and older people while asking providers to co-operate on increasing home care

Minimising council meetings in line with Government guidance.

You can read the latest Government guidance on the coronavirus at: www.gov.uk/coronavirus