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“Council public health teams work hard to help reduce smoking rates in their areas, alongside local charities and community groups, and it is testament to their efforts that smoking rates continue to fall."

"Staff working in care homes and those providing care in people’s own homes have done an incredible job, in extremely challenging circumstances, to protect those they care for throughout this crisis."

"Councils share the Commissioner’s concerns about the impact of the coronavirus crisis on vulnerable teenagers."

“It is great that the Government has recognised the importance of culture to the social fabric of our nation by announcing this funding which will be a lifeline to many theatres, galleries and museums which have been severely impacted by coronavirus."

“We are pleased that the Government recognises the important role that tourism plays in boosting the UK economy and that it has provided this much needed funding."

"Nearly a third of all deaths in care homes involved coronavirus and we need to do all we can to keep drastically reducing this. The Government’s announcement today of regular testing of care home residents and staff will help with preventing the spread of infection, but we must remain vigilant."

“The most important thing is that the public and those working on the frontline get a complete picture of the impact this virus has had in our neighbourhoods and in our communities."

"Councils want all children to return to school to continue with their education and we also want to work with the Government, education leaders and schools to make sure the national effort is a success."

“The further £500 million extra funding to help councils meet extra COVID-19 costs pressures is helpful but, in the context of the funding gap councils still face, substantial additional funding will be needed and we await further details on how this money will be distributed."

“It is up to individuals and businesses to make sure they act responsibly and safely, including maintaining social distancing. Councils will be working with police, businesses and other partners to ensure existing and new requirements are complied with."