POSITIVE CASES IN ST. ANDREWS AND EAST NEUK On the 10th September NHS Fife confirmed that two people with links to the University of St Andrews tested positive. There is no evidence at this stage that the two cases are linked and the risk of onward transmission within the wider community is considered to be low. The likely source of infection in both cases is understood to have been because of close contact with confirmed cases outwith Fife. Both positive cases are currently experiencing mild symptoms and are isolating at home. https://coronavirus.nhsfife.org/changes-to-services/news-updates/2020/two-confirmed-cases-of-covid-19-with-links-to-the-university-of-st-andrews/
NEW CONTACT TRACING APP Protect Scotland is a free, mobile phone app designed to help us protect each other, reduce the spread of the virus and avoid further lockdowns.
The app will alert you if you have been in close contact with another app user who tests positive. And if you test positive, it can help in determining contacts that you may have otherwise missed while keeping your information private and anonymous. Willie had a meeting with the Scottish Privacy Forum to hear from them about any issues. You can download it here: https://protect.scot/
NEW LOCKDOWN RESTRICTIONS We remain in phase 3 of lockdown restrictions as infection rates are too high and accelerating again. This will be the case for some time. The following changes apply from Monday but you are encouraged to follow them now.
The maximum social gathering has reduced to 6 people from 2 households, indoors, outdoors and in hospitality venues. (children under 12 won’t count to the limit of 6). This also applies to pubs and restaurants.
Exception to limit: Receptions for Weddings, funerals and civil partnership will be allowed for 20 people from different households in hospitality venues. Workplace, sport, exercise and activity guidance remains as before.
Hospitality- It will become mandatory to wear face coverings when you are moving around in a hospitality venue and not sitting at table. Staff in Hospitality venues will now have to wear masks.
There was no additional reopening of services or offices for the time being. 5th October is the new indicative date for the resumption of: Spectator sports, Theatres, indoor soft play and outdoor events
Willie was on the Covid Committee this week with Professor Linda Bauld
SHIELDING If you have a mobile and NHS Scotland has your number you will receive a text message should the advice in your area change. You will be receiving a letter from the Chief Medical Officer to update you on current plans for those in this category, but there is no plan to reintroduce shielding at this time.
CUPAR AND GLENROTHES COUNCIL CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE Cupar and Glenrothes Customer Service Centres reopened but for appointments only. www.fife.gov.uk/contact-us GP SERVICES Local health centres continue to be open but have changed the way they work. It is the preference to carry out a consultation online or on the phone as the hygiene and safety measures required for a physical consultation are considerable. Watch this video for more information. https://www.facebook.com/nhsfife/videos/vb.398905387245/706760249917867/?type=2&theater
Willie questioned the First Minister about the effectiveness of Test and Protect and the quarantine arrangements
TRAVELLERS Travellers from Hungary and La Réunion will be required to self-isolate at home or another specified address for 14 days on arrival in Scotland from 4am on Saturday morning (12th September). https://www.gov.scot/news/further-quarantine-measures-introduced-for-travellers-1/ SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT
As the newly appointed Work and Pensions spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats, Wendy asked the government to make it easier for small businesses to apply for government support. https://www.facebook.com/WendyChamberlainMP/videos/931612447324651/?t=0 ENVIRONMENTAL ZOOM Willie held a zoom meeting for constituents interested in the Climate Assembly and the Climate Action Plan. DOORS OPEN Doors Open Day will be making a return this weekend – it is going digital, with online tours and other events. Don’t miss this opportunity to see inside of some of Fife’s most interesting attractions. www.doorsopendays.org.uk ADVICE SURGERY Willie’s next advice surgery is outside the Co-op in Anstruther on Saturday 19th September at 12.30pm – 1.30pm.
There was a debate on the controversial hate crime bill. You can watch Willie’s contribution.
COMMUNITY MUTUAL AID
These are the links to their Facebook groups and websites. If you need help with groceries, medicine collection etc please contact them.
Please do let me know whether you are running a group in your community.
SUPPORT AND ADVICE
This is an anxious and uncertain time but we wanted you to know that Wendy Chamberlain MP, Willie Rennie MSP our local councillors are ready to help in whatever way that we can.
