Message from the Leader of Haringey Council Cllr Joe Ejiofor on Covid-19

I know that there is widespread concern about the spread of COVID -19. The NHS and Public Health England have lots of advice about what to do if you are worried that you or a family member or friend have caught it. You can see that on the NHS coronavirus web page.

I want to reassure you that your council is working hard to make sure that, whatever happens, we are able to continue to provide essential services. Our services have plans in place to ensure that we can continue to support the most vulnerable residents and undertake the other services that are essential to health and wellbeing in the borough. We are working closely with our local health services too.

This is a frightening and unsettling time and we all need to support each other. It is really important that we are looking out for our neighbours and thinking about the community we live in. I know that many of you are already making sure that those who may be self-isolating have enough food at home. I would ask you to act calmly and not buy more food or household provisions than you need to so that there is enough for everyone.

Over the next few weeks or months, we may not be able to do everything that we usually do, and some services may be slower. That is because we are prioritising those that support our most vulnerable residents and our statutory duties. Please bear with us.

Government has told us that they will be providing additional support for vulnerable residents. We don’t yet know how that will be provided, but we will be updating our website with more information as soon as it is available, on the COVID-19 section of our website.

If you are worried about money that you owe the council, essential items or the support you need, please do visit our Connected Communities page, for information which we will update regularly.

The Government has asked citizens to reduce their social interactions, and reduce unnecessary travel, and so we will be cancelling a range of events. It’s possible that some council facilities will also be closed. Please check before you travel.

In line with Government advice schools in Haringey are currently remaining open. This may change and parents will be updated via the school as soon as information is available. The situation is changing daily which is challenging. We really appreciate all the work our schools are doing during this difficult time.

Other support you may need

Our website also lists all the support available for residents who may be experiencing hardship:

• Discretionary Housing Payments may be available to top-up housing-related benefit for a limited time to cover housing costs such as rent
• If you're experiencing exceptional hardship you may be able to claim a discretionary reduction in Council Tax. Visit our website to find out if you qualify

We have also been notified from the Government that additional financial resources will be provided to local authorities to support vulnerable residents. We will provide further information on this topic as soon as it will be made available.

Please follow Government advice to stop spreading the virus

The government's latest advice is that people who have developed a cough or fever should self-isolate at home for 14 days to avoid further spread of the virus. Their families and those living with them should do the same.

The NHS has some tips on self-isolation.

Residents are also advised to work from home when possible, avoid any unnecessary travel and social interactions, as well as going to pubs, cinemas, theatres or clubs.

Please check Government advice to obtain the most recent information.

What to do if you feel unwell

If you think you’re experiencing symptoms of Coronavirus, do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy, or hospital. Visit NHS Website for further information.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue if you cough or sneeze 
• Put used tissues into the bin immediately 
• Wash your hands with soap and water often 
• Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available 
• Wash your hands when you arrive into work and return home 
• Try to avoid close contact with unwell people 

Schools are open

In line with Government advice schools in Haringey are currently remaining open.

This may change and parents will be updated via the school as soon as information is available.

Stay up to date on COVID-19

Information and advice regarding COVID-19 is changing quickly and its important you keep up to date with those changes.

The council will be regularly updating our website and sending email newsletters to keep residents and businesses up to date.

Please encourage friends and family to visit the webpage and sign up to the newsletter so they too can stay connected with what's happening in our borough.