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As national lockdown is lifted next week, North East Lincolnshire is preparing to move to Covid Tier 3 (Very High Alert).

The Government has announced that North East Lincolnshire will join neighbouring authorities of North Lincolnshire, East Riding and Hull in being placed at the very high local alert level (Tier 3).

Cllr Philip Jackson, Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council said: “We know that this is a difficult time, especially for the most vulnerable.

“This is a challenging situation, and will understandably cause concern, but I would urge everyone in the borough to stay strong and keep going during the difficult weeks and months ahead. We will be working with other local authorities to do what we can to reduce the restrictions quickly, but everyone needs to play their part.”

Under the new restrictions, people across North East Lincolnshire will no longer be able to mix in any indoor or outdoor setting with people you don’t live with – unless you are in a support bubble with them, and you must abide by the Rule of 6. Overnight stays with anyone outside your support bubble should be avoided.

Where Covid-secure arrangements, such as substantial screens or visiting pods are available at residential care, visits can go ahead. Visits can also go ahead at windows and outside, but check with your residential care provider for any specific restrictions.

Additionally, other restrictions within Tier 3 are:

• You should work from home if this is possible.
   
• You should avoid travelling outside your area, other than for work or education. You should reduce the number of journeys you make where possible, and you should avoid car sharing with others outside of your household or support bubble.
   
• Hospitality services are closed, with the exception of sales by takeaway, drive-through or delivery.
   
• Education settings, shopping, retail, leisure and gyms remain open.
   
• Personal care (barbers, hairdressers etc) providers are open.
   
• Accommodation providers are closed.
   
• Weddings and Funerals: up to 15 guests are allowed at weddings, up to 30 guests for funerals. Wedding receptions are not permitted.
   
• Places of worship are open, but you should not interact with others outside your household or support bubble.
   
• Indoor entertainment venues must close.
   
• Exercise classes and organised sport can take place outdoors. Group exercise should not take place indoors (unless with your household or support bubble). Organised activities for elite athletes, under 18s and disabled people can continue.

Stephen Pintus, Director of Public Health for Northern Lincolnshire said: “Our new Tier 3 classification is a reflection of the change in infection rate across the Humber. It has been a challenging few weeks, and we are seeing the numbers start to slow down in North East Lincolnshire, but we need to keep going. There’s lots you can do to help continue to reduce the spread and keep loved ones safe.

Dr Peter Melton, Clinical Chief Officer for NHS North East Lincolnshire CCG, said: “Whilst the news last week about the vaccines are promising and show that there might be an end in sight, we still have a long way to go. Remember the basics – Hands, Face, Space. But also, open your windows to get fresh air circulating in your house where you can. Remain vigilant, and we will, together, help beat this virus.”

At the end of national lockdown, people are being reminded to stay vigilant to the presence of the virus as they return to normal life within the new Tier. It’s expected that the town centres will be very busy in the first few days after the end of lockdown, and people should remember the basics of Hands, Face, Space and the new rules about meeting up with others.

Self-isolation advice:

Since 28 September, anyone who receives a positive Covid-19 test or is told to self-isolate by the NHS Test & Trace Service must self-isolate by law, with anyone failing to self-isolate when they are required to do so facing a fine of between £1,000 and £10,000.

Anyone with symptoms must self-isolate for 10 days, while anyone living in the same household as someone with symptoms must self-isolate for 14 days.

If you need help

North East Lincolnshire Council has a COVID-19 Helpline - 01472 313131 0ption 0, available from Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm. This is a dedicated helpline for individuals or families in in genuine need who have no one else to help them. Calling this number will connect residents to services, registered groups, organisations and local volunteers who may be able to help.

Additionally, those on low-incomes and certain benefits may qualify for a £500 support payment if they are forced to self-isolate due to COVID-19.

More information can be found at www.nelincs.gov.uk/coronavirus or at gov.uk/coronavirus.