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“Many council-owned libraries have experienced an increase of more than 600 per cent in new registered members since the Government’s mandated lockdown."

“Any national plans by government to track and trace coronavirus needs to be complemented by making use of existing local knowledge and skills on the ground."

The Government’s “Clipper” system intends to provide a central hub for the supply and distribution of PPE. However, it is yet to be fully up and running following a delay in going live and could take at least another three weeks before it gets up to speed.  Social care workers and other council service staff continue to risk their lives in keeping essential services going, including supporting our elderly and most vulnerable people, due to a chronic lack of masks, gowns, visors, goggles and other life-saving kit. The LGA suggests that councils and local areas could each need access to

“Councils are extremely concerned about the financial viability of early years providers, many of whom are operating at a loss in order to provide vital childcare for our critical workers and most vulnerable children."

“With greater capacity to deliver more tests, the Government should prioritise those at most risk, including staff who work in care homes and support the most vulnerable."

School closures, staff sickness and coronavirus demand on resources has left many councils struggling to provide support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, the Local Government Association says today.  

“As the focus shifts from hospitals to social care we need to do all we can to shield people in care homes and those receiving care in their own homes."

Desperately-needed new social homes could go unbuilt unless councils are granted an extension to the time they are allowed to spend money from Right to Buy sales, the Local Government Association warns today.

“Councils want to continue playing a leading role in supporting local communities and the national effort to defeat this disease."

“Councils are working tirelessly to protect and help those who are most vulnerable during this pandemic."