The council has worked across all directorates to support businesses, residents and communities throughout the pandemic to remain as safe as possible and to prevent and reduce spread of infection and protect those most vulnerable in our society.

Our focus now moves towards recovery. Over the coming months the true impact of the pandemic will become better known for the economy, community wellbeing and organisation.

To support the recovery cabinet approved a £6.1m COVID Recovery Plan which includes the economy, community wellbeing and organisation.

There has been a significant reduction in employment opportunities because of COVID-19. Many businesses couldn’t operate in the usual way and had to cut costs by furloughing their employees or letting them go. As a result many people have lost their job or part of their income. It is likely there will be more losses in the months to come.

For individuals who have lost their job or are at risk of losing their job, the consequences are enormous. People are worried about how they will pay their bills, feed their families and keep debt collectors at bay. Linked to this, the number of people suffering from stress and anxiety, as well as more complicated mental health issues, has risen during the pandemic.

Much of the government Covid-19 support available during the pandemic is coming to an end over the coming months (furlough, eviction ban etc.) This is likely to drive a significant increase in residents requiring support.