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Responding to a National Audit Office interim report on the Government’s approach to test and trace in England, Cllr Ian Hudspeth, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, said:  “From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent launch of NHS Test and Trace, we have consistently called for councils and their directors of public health to be able to use their considerable expertise and unparalleled experience to play their full part in the national effort to beat this virus.  “Environmental health, emergency planners, trading standards and public

“As we look towards our recovery and the prospect of a return to a more normal way of life, we must not forget the memory of those who are no longer with us."

“Councils continue to do all they can to keep their communities safe, while encouraging everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated. These extra measures are a reminder that COVID-19 remains a serious public health threat, especially with the new Omicron variant and rising case numbers.

"Councils are now looking after nearly 16,000 more children than they were 10 years ago."

“Unless this funding is made more long-term and less restrictive, more schools may have to close after having spent their budgets on supply teachers, which will only serve to exacerbate growing attainment gaps.”

"Domestic abuse is complex and in order to enhance efforts to combat this issue, through both prevention schemes and support services, councils need to be fully funded across all services."

“Extra funding to fill staff shortages and free up more experienced colleagues to focus on providing care directly will help with the immediate impact of the virus. Social care has been on the frontline throughout the coronavirus pandemic and our dedicated staff rightly need as much support as possible during this incredibly challenging period.”

"The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the incredibly valuable role of social care in its own right and why it is more important than ever before that we find a long-term and sustainable funding solution, so that people of all ages can live the life they want to lead."

“Coronavirus has impacted all our lives, with many health check services halted in March to help with the wider national effort. As these fully resume, it will be more important than ever for those eligible for a health check to sign up for one."

“Any future reforms of adult social care must apply the lessons learned from coronavirus, as well as address the issues of fairness in how we pay for these vital services. These include people who fund their own care."