Latest UK data to Tuesday 9th June:
Total tests: 5,870,506 tests have been carried / posted out (+ 102,930)
Positive tests: 289,140 have tested positive – (+ 1387 on previous day)
In hospital: 6,348 are currently in hospital – down from 7,622 last week)
Loss of life: 40,883 across all settings, (+ 286 on previous day)
Number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk in the UK
The latest number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk level in the UK.
Government daily briefing:
Tuesday 9th June: Business Secretary Alok Sharma
Business Secretary’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 9 June 2020
- R-rate continues to stay below 1
- Confirmation that non-essential retailers will be permitted to reopen on 15th June
- Safer working guidance for restaurants, pubs and bars, as well as hairdressers, barbers, nail bars and related services currently a work in progress with these businesses expected to reopen from 4th July
- 5 new ‘recovery roundtables’ bringing together businesses, business representative groups and leading academics being launched
Slides and datasets to accompany coronavirus press conference: 9 June 2020
Press conference slides and datasets used by The Rt Hon Alok Sharma MP.
Monday 8th June: Health Secretary Matt Hancock
Health and Social Care Secretary’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 8 June 2020
- Daily figure of deaths at lowest since 21st March but may rise due to later recording of deaths at the weekend
- Number of people dying in care homes beginning to fall
- New national Covid-19 social care team will give care homes support, training and resources to control the virus
- Over 1million test kits have been supplied to more than 9,000 care homes
- Government now focused on targeted local action for outbreaks
- R number is now below 1 everywhere and the virus is ‘in retreat’
Slides and datasets to accompany coronavirus press conference: 8 June 2020
Answers to the most common topics asked about by the public for the coronavirus press conference
Slides, datasets and transcripts to accompany coronavirus press conferences
Friday – Sunday 7th June:
- ONS figures show 2-week fall in infections from 139,000 to 53,000
- SAGE confirmed R rate across the UK is between 0.7 and 0.9
- All hospital visitors and outpatients will need to wear face coverings from 15th June; all hospital staff will be required to wear Type 1 or 2 surgical masks, at all times in all areas
Health and Social Care Secretary’s statement on coronavirus (COVID-19): 5 June 2020
Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock gave the 5 June 2020 daily press briefing on the government’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Slides and datasets to accompany coronavirus press conference: 5 June 2020
Slides, datasets and transcripts to accompany coronavirus press conferences
UK HEADLINES:
Last day to register employees for furlough scheme
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme is changing. The final date by which an employer needs to agree with their employee and ensure they place them on furlough is 10 June. Employers will have until 31 July to make any claims in respect of the period to 30 June. From 1 July, employers can bring back to work employees that have previously been furloughed for any amount of time and any shift pattern, while still being able to claim the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme grant for their normal hours not worked. When claiming the grant for furloughed hours employers will need to report and claim for a minimum period of a week. The scheme will close to new entrants from 30 June. From this point onwards, employers will only be able to furlough employees that they have furloughed for a full 3 week period prior to 30 June. Further guidance on flexible furloughing and how employers should calculate claims will be published on 12 June. Find out more information on how the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme is changing.
Almost £38 million support package for debt advice providers
An extra £37.8 million support package will be available to debt advice providers this year (20-21) so they can continue to provide essential services to help more people who are struggling with their finances due to Coronavirus, minsters have announced. The Money and Pensions Service (MaPS), will oversee the allocation of the funds, including to charities, for debt advice and other money guidance services.
Thousands of high street shops, department stores and shopping centres to reopen safely in England
Shops in England selling non-essential goods will be able to reopen from Monday 15 June, the Business Secretary confirmed today, thanks to continuing progress in meeting our 5 tests.
Study launched to monitor prevalence of Covid-19 in schools
A new voluntary COVID-19 study to assess and monitor the prevalence of COVID-19 among pre-school, primary and secondary school pupils and teachers has been launched by the government. Public Health England’s (PHE) study will add to data on antibody and virus prevalence already being collected through national surveillance programmes and other nationwide studies, which report weekly. The initial phase will collect data from up to 100 schools from across England, including 15 schools in London, with results available over the summer. We are targeting around 200 staff and children at each school.
Government announces contingency measures for this year’s electoral canvass
The annual canvass is a significant data-gathering exercise whereby electoral administrators update their electoral rolls – the lists of everyone in their community who is registered to vote – confirming the details of electors who should be added or removed. The government will amend the final date for this year’s revised registers to be published, extending it from 1 December 2020 to February 2021 allowing local authority staff more time to complete their canvassing and maintain the accuracy of their registers, in light of practical consequences such as redeployed resourcing and social distancing.
London’s COVID-19 Transition Board meets for the first time
The Board will provide strategic direction for the next phase of the response to COVID-19 as London begins to reopen its economy while still controlling the virus.
Boris Johnson will lead the daily Downing Street briefing later where he’s expected to outline further plans to lift the lockdown in England. That’ll include the reopening of zoos, safari parks and other outdoor attractions. They’ll join non-essential retailers – the likes of clothing stores – in being allowed to resume operations on Monday, providing social distancing measures are in place.
Plans to reopen primary schools In England to all years have been dropped
The Government has announced it has dropped plans for all primary school children to return to school for at least four weeks before the end of the summer school term. Anne Longfield, Children’s Commissioner for England said while she understood the reason for the decision she believes that there is a way for children to be educated in some way : “When we look at Wales, children will be in school for a third of a week; children need to continue with their education in some way, maybe through online learning or summer camps.” Secondary schools are not likely to reopen until September. Mark Currell, headteacher of a School in Northampton said it’s not feasible to happen under current circumstances with up to 15 to a class and enforced social distancing. Zoom learning is working for some children but not all have access to technology, children are missing their friends, deprived of social interaction. He also suggested that this loss of education, especially among disadvantaged children, is widening the gap further. However, headteachers are able to use their own judgement and initiative as to when, if and how their schools will reopen before the start of the new academic year in September. Helen Whately, MP and Minister for Care said that the Government doesn’t want to take a risk of increasing the infection rate in school but they do want to take care to ensure those children who are out of school are looked after: “it’s a difficult balance and not straight forward.” Helen added that they wanted to get more children back, at the right time and in the right way and that they needed to listen to headteachers with individual needs – their building may not accommodate children safely – and the Government wants to work with them to get the policy right.
Boris Johnson will chair a cabinet meeting to discuss the next steps in easing England’s lockdown. There are reports that open air hospitality venues, including beer gardens and outdoor cafes, could reopen sooner than the current target date of 4 July.
Whole home testing rolled out to all care homes in England
Every care home in England will now be offered a coronavirus test for all residents and staff, even if they have no symptoms.
National Careers Service Virtual Jobs Fair – all this week
Virtual Jobs Fair – the National Careers Service is holding a second fair from Monday 8 to Friday 12 June. Noteworthy additions to the second fair are the inclusion of more localised hashtags to help people to identify opportunities relevant to them and Wednesday’s live Facebook ‘Employment Workshop’ which will give people tips on writing CVs and preparing for interviews.
UK Quarantine rules come into force today (8th June)
Rules requiring the majority of people arriving in the UK to self-isolate for 14 days are effective as of today. Whether it’s by plane, ferry or train, arrivals – including UK nationals – will have to provide an address where they’ll stay and face fines if they don’t comply. The government says the quarantine is essential to prevent a second wave of coronavirus infections, but the measures are hugely unpopular across the beleaguered travel industry. Home Secretary Priti Patel says the quarantine is essential to prevent a second wave of virus infections, but the measures are hugely unpopular in some quarters, especially the beleaguered travel industry. The sector had been pinning its hopes on summer holiday season to provide some relief, and a number of airlines say they’re prepared to take legal action to force a rethink. There’s currently no end date for the new rules and the idea of so-called “air bridges” with certain other nations is only “under consideration”.
Dental practices can re-open from today under strict guidelines
Dental practices in England are allowed to reopen from today, but the British Dental Association says social distancing measures and a shortage of protective equipment will slow the resumption of services. It estimates that only about a third of the normal number of patients can be treated
Reopening High Streets Safely Fund guidance
Guidance to help local authorities and partners to deliver activities supported through the Reopening High Streets Safely Fund.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) added for the Reopening High Streets Safely Fund.
Ban on evictions extended for a further two months
Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Robert Jenrick has announced that the Government is suspending evictions from social and private rented accommodation by a further two months. Eviction hearings will not be heard in courts until the end of August.
Business Secretary launches working groups to help unleash Britain’s growth potential
Business Secretary Alok Sharma is creating 5 new business-focused groups to unleash Britain’s growth potential and create jobs, as part of the government’s plans to help the economy bounce back from the coronavirus pandemic. Focused on 5 key themes, each group will explore how business can work with government to deliver economic growth and jobs:
- The future of industry: How to accelerate business innovation and leverage private sector investment in research and development
- Green recovery: How to capture economic growth opportunities from the shift to net zero carbon emissions
- Backing new businesses: How to make the UK the best place in the world to start and scale a business
- Increasing opportunity: How to level up economic performance across the UK, including through skills and apprenticeships
- The UK open for business: How to win and retain more high value investment for the UK
This initiative builds on the close engagement between the UK’s business community, the Business Department and across Whitehall as we have responded to the pandemic.
This includes 5 new ministerial-led taskforces to develop further plans for how and when closed sectors can safely reopen, following the publication of the Prime Minister’s roadmap out of lockdown.
LOCAL / REGIONAL NEWS & UPDATES:
Andy Burnham puts pressure on Government to have regional representation on central decision making as north west ‘R’ number causes concern
In a joint statement, the mayors of Greater Manchester and Liverpool City Region asked the government to “widen the membership” of Cobra. The call came after some scientists said coronavirus may be spreading in the North West. The area has the highest infection rate in England, Public Health England said. Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, told BBC Breakfast: “There is no representation for any mayor outside of London on Cobra – the mayor of London is on Cobra, rightly, and Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, but no other English region. “That can’t carry on. If we’re going to have decisions being taken that affect the regions, surely the voice of the English regions should be represented there.”
AGRICULTURE:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): information for farmers, landowners and rural businesses
The latest information for farmers, landowners and rural businesses during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Read this page for regular updates. Latest news updated to advise that Rural Payments helpline will be open on 13 and 14 June.
COMMUNITY:
Charities to benefit from support for rough sleepers during pandemic
Over 130 charities are set to benefit from £6m of government funding to allow them to continue their work supporting rough sleepers during the pandemic. Updated showing the successful grants
Places of worship to re-open for individual prayer
From Monday 15 June places of worship will be permitted to open for individual prayer in line with social distancing guidelines.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice on accessing green spaces safely
Advice on using green spaces and protecting yourself and others from coronavirus – clarified guidance for zoos and other businesses that keep animals (not normally domesticated in England) for exhibition to the public.
COVID-19: management of staff and exposed patients and residents in health and social care settings
Guidance on the management of staff, patients and residents who have been exposed to COVID-19 – updated flowcharts with information on self-isolation for cases identified as contacts via the test and trace system.
Over 100 frontline domestic abuse charities given government funding
Over 1,500 bed spaces will be provided to support survivors of domestic abuse at risk during the pandemic backed by £8.1 million government support.
NERVTAG: Face mask use in the community, 13 April 2020
Paper prepared by the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
Does the use of face masks in the general population make a difference to spread of infection?
Rapid review prepared by UNCOVER on face masks for the general population.
COVID-19: guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable
Information for shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable from COVID-19 – updated guidance for young people to reflect that those who are shielding can now leave their homes.
CONSTRUCTION:
Over a third of firms down to under 3 months cash reserves
Around 35% of construction firms are reporting less than three months’ cash reserves after the pandemic lockdown. The big squeeze on cash was revealed in the latest industry survey taken by number crunchers at the ONS. Around one in 20 of these firms (5.2%) reported they were walking a tightrope with less than one month’s cash. The Business Impact of Coronavirus Survey received responses from just over 1,700 construction firms, with around a fifth employing more than 250 staff. It was taken in the first two weeks of May.
Bellway lifts one tradesperson per house working limit
House builder Bellway is preparing to lift its limit of one tradesperson per house originally employed to restart work under Covid safe working procedures.
After a month long trial, focused on finishing homes near completion, Bellway is raising production and has restarted work on around 230 sites. Jason Honeyman, chief executive, said that over the coming weeks, the careful introduction of further social distancing working practices would enable more than one tradesperson to work in a home at the same time, albeit on separate floors. He added this would get more people back to work and increase the construction rate, while maintaining a safe onsite working environment.
How Covid-19 is impacting on the construction injury
Keep up to date on the effects of Coronavirus/COVID-19 on the UK construction market with weekly insight videos from Glenigan who track every UK construction project from pre-planning to delivery, and therefore have a unique perspective to be able to report on exactly what is happening to planning applications, plans approved, plans refused, site starts, sites put on hold etc.
Plans approved for “Covid Compliant” mixed use scheme
Construction of the 10,000 sq ft 82 Mount Street scheme will start this autumn.
The latest technology will be applied to the design of the entire development to minimise physical touch points as much as possible. Passenger lifts will be designed to be “no touch” using contactless fobs with access to the building controlled by voice recognition systems. Communal areas and apartment living spaces will have finishes and surfaces made from anti-viral materials. REDDis also exploring using materials such as antibacterial copper for key touch point surfaces because it kills Covid-19 in just four hours.
EDUCATION:
Local Government Association welcomes Government decision on reopening of schools in England
Responding to the Government’s announcement to drop plans for all primary school years in England to go back to school before the end of term, Cllr Judith Blake, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Children and Young People Board, said: “We are pleased that the Government has acted on our calls and will give councils and local schools flexibility over the decision to expand the number of pupils before the summer holidays. Councils want all children to return to school but it is imperative that pupils return to school only when it is safe for them to do so and schools are best placed to make those decisions based on their own individual circumstances.”
Launch of Edge Post Covid-19 Revival Fund – How to Build Back Better
The Edge Foundation has launched a one-off ‘Covid-19 Revival Fund’ with up to £250,000 of grant funding open to institutions and not-for-profit organisations working in the educational sector to support the development of projects and initiatives to revive education and support the sector to ‘build back better’ following the coronavirus.
Teaching about mental wellbeing
Practical materials for primary and secondary schools to use to train staff about teaching mental wellbeing.
Study launched to monitor prevalence of COVID-19 in schools
The new voluntary coronavirus (COVID-19) study will assess and monitor the prevalence of COVID-19 among pre-school, primary and secondary school pupils and teachers.
Awarding qualifications in summer 2020
Information for schools, students and parents on how GCSE, AS, A level, vocational and technical qualifications will be graded and awarded in summer 2020 – updated Guidance for teachers, students, parents and carers: Summer 2020 grades for GCSE, AS and A level, Extended Project Qualification and Advanced Extension Award in maths.
Attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus outbreak
A summary of attendance in education settings since Monday 23 March and early years settings since Thursday 16 April – added latest data and ‘4 June 2020 summary: attendance in education and early years settings during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak’.
SPI-M-O: Consensus view on the impact of mass school closures, 17 March 2020
Consensus statement from the Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Modelling, Operational sub-group (SPI-M-O) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
Universities Minister sets out support for international students
International Education Champion appointed to support international students and the higher education sector during Covid-19
Funding: ITT coronavirus (COVID-19) course extensions 2019 to 2020
Guidance about funding extensions to initial teacher training (ITT) courses during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): initial teacher training (ITT)
Information for providers about managing initial teacher training courses impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) – update to confirm arrangements for trainees not recommended for qualified teacher status (QTS) in the 2019 to 2020 academic year.
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus outbreak
What childcare services early years settings, childminders and local authorities need to provide during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – added a clarification on the requirement for providers to carry the appropriate insurance (for example, public liability insurance) to cover all premises from which they provide childcare or childminding.
EMPLOYERS / BUSINESS / FINANCE:
DCMS Coronavirus Impact Business Survey
Survey data on how Digital Culture Media & Sport sectors are responding to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
DCMS Economic Estimates: Ad-hoc statistical releases
This page lists links to ad hoc statistical analyses on Economic Estimates that have not been included in our standard publications.
Sending your forms to Companies House during the coronavirus outbreak
As an emergency response to coronavirus (COVID-19), we’ve developed a temporary online service to upload a number of completed forms and send them to Companies House digitally.
Parents returning to work after extended leave eligible for furlough
People on paternity and maternity leave who return to work in the coming months will be eligible for the government’s furlough scheme, HM Treasury announced (9 June).
Coronavirus grant funding: local authority payments to small and medium businesses
Local authorities have received and distributed funding to support small and medium businesses in England during coronavirus.
£35billion provided to 830,000 businesses by lenders through Covid-19 schemes
Figures published by HM Treasury today reveal that lenders have provided £34.9 billion through the three major government-backed lending programmes. £3.6 billion has been granted to 85,000 businesses in the past week, with more applications expected to be approved in the coming days as the industry continues to help the UK get through these tough times. Lenders are approving thousands of Bounce Bank Loans for small and micro businesses every day. In the five weeks since the launch of the scheme, over 780,000 businesses have successfully applied – an average of 156,000 approvals by lenders each week. £23.8 billion has been provided by the industry through the BBL scheme, including £2.5 billion in the last seven days.
OPSS coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance for business and local authorities
Second version of the guidance on how OPSS is supporting businesses and local authorities and protecting consumers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic for manufacturers and makers of face coverings on complying with the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 published, amended to reflect the latest government guidance on when a face covering should be worn.
HMRC coronavirus (COVID-19) statistics
HMRC data about the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme, and the VAT payments deferral scheme.
Forestry Commission operational update: coronavirus
This update provides details on the Forestry Commission’s working practices during the coronavirus outbreak – added a link to the FISA working safely during coronavirus
Help and support if your business is affected by coronavirus (COVID-19)
Watch videos and register for the free webinars to learn more about the?support available to help you deal with the economic impacts of?coronavirus. The YouTube videos have been updated for how to make a claim through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, and how to make a claim through the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme.
Advice on staying secure during COVID-19
Guidance from the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure for businesses and insolvency office holders on managing security risks during the pandemic.
Find out if you can use the Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme, or how to make a claim on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, by joining one of the updated webinars.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: guidance for research organisations
Guidance for those involved in research, including research organisations in receipt of public funding through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS).
Closing certain businesses and venues in England
This document provides guidance on the closure of certain businesses and venues as part of further social distancing measures – guidance updated to reflect current regulations.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) advice for accommodation providers
Guidance and advice for those providing hotel and other accommodation in the UK.
Analysis over time, business impact of coronavirus: Waves 2 to 5, UK
This high-level article looks at those businesses who are common across different waves of the BICS survey. We use Sankey diagrams to draw out how those businesses in common have evolved between the different waves from Wave 2, Wave 3, Wave 4 and Wave 5. We look at high level information for the Turnover, Workforce and Trade related questions. This is because the Wave 1 questions do not have the same level of detail we need to assess over time for those variables.
HM Treasury coronavirus (COVID-19) business loan scheme statistics
HMT management information about the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS), Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CLBILS), Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) and Future Fund Scheme – updated with new figures
Coronavirus support from Business Representative Organisations and Trade Associations
Details of the National Franchise Dealer Association, the Associated Retirement Community Operators, the Association of Vehicle Recovery Operators, the Glass and Glazing Federation and the British Printing Industries Federation added to Business Representative Organisations and Trade Associations that are providing coronavirus related support for specific sectors.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: people receiving direct payments
How the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) can be used by direct payment holders who employ people for their care.
The RCG projects that by March 2021, UK businesses are likely to face between £97bn to £107bn of unsustainable debt. Of this amount, around half will sit with SMEs, with between £35bn-£40bn of the unsustainable debt burden on small businesses, and between £16bn-£17bn on medium-sized businesses. By the end of March 2021, while the majority of unsustainable debt will stem from existing debt, the RCG estimates that between £32bn-£36bn of the total unsustainable debt will stem from the Government’s Covid-19 lending schemes; this is broadly a third of total projected lending resulting from the schemes. The RCG’s analysis suggests that the sectors most exposed to unsustainable debt by March 2021 are likely to be property (representing 24% of the total estimated unsustainable debt), accommodation & food services (16%) and construction (11%). On top of the unsustainable debt, some sectors may be less able to weather short-term revenue shocks and will need support sooner than others. The RCG’s analysis suggests accommodation and food services, transport and storage, construction and business admin and support service sectors could be among those.
European Structural and Investment Funds: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response
A series of documents and updates regarding the 2014 to 2020 European Structural and Investment Funds Programme and the response to COVID-19 – the ESF Q & A has been updated with amended answers to existing questions. A new question and answer has also been added. See date next to questions for those updated or added.
HEALTH & HEALTHCARE:
Adult Social Care Infection Control Fund
Sets out the infection control measures that the infection control fund will support, including information on the distribution of funds and reporting requirements.
Behavioural science ‘key to success’ of test and trace app
According to the British Psychological Society, with the new Covid-19 digital contact tracing app requiring people to perform at least four inter-related behaviours, we’re recommending that behavioural science is integrated within both the app itself and all associated communications if it is to be fit for purpose. We’ve also called for further research to be undertaken to help understand and overcome the potential barriers to people using it.
Informing DfE of the death of a colleague across children’s services
How local authorities and social care providers can tell the Department for Education (DfE) about the death of a colleague across children’s services.
COVID-19: management of staff and exposed patients and residents in health and social care settings
Updated flowcharts with additional guidance on clinical symptoms added to guidance on the management of staff, patients and residents who have been exposed to COVID-19.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for people receiving direct payments
Advice for people who buy care and support through a direct payment, as well as local authorities, clinical commissioning groups and those who provide care and support. Changes to this document include the addition of case studies, and there are new sections on PPE, testing and the flexible of use of direct payments. Two other documents have been added: ‘Guidance for commissioners, people receiving direct payments and care providers (easy read)’ and ‘Using direct payments during the coronavirus outbreak: the most important things to know’. The document ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for people receiving direct payments’ has been renamed ‘Guidance for commissioners, people receiving direct payments and care providers’. There are no other changes to this document.
COVID-19: personal protective equipment use for aerosol generating procedures
Guidance on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for aerosol generating procedures (AGPs) – added video for donning and doffing PPE when using coveralls instead of gowns.
COVID-19: background information
Updated global case numbers to information on COVID-19 including epidemiology, virology and clinical features.
COVID-19: PHE assessment of laboratory tests and assays
Added DHSC guidance ‘Serology and viral detection testing: UK procurement overview’ to information, resources and guidance relating to the evaluation of COVID-19 tests.
Face masks and coverings to be worn by all NHS hospital staff and visitors
All staff in hospitals in England will be expected to wear surgical masks from 15 June. All visitors and outpatients will be expected to wear face coverings at all times.
PHE: Are asymptomatic people with 2019nCoV infectious?
Paper prepared by Public Health England (PHE) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
PHE: If there is evidence of a cluster of COVID-19 cases in the UK, what will the PHE proposal be?
Paper prepared by Public Health England (PHE) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
Loss of smell and taste in combination with other symptoms is a strong predictor of COVID-19 infection
Paper prepared by Kings College London (KCL) on the loss of smell and taste with COVID-19.
Coronavirus and loneliness, Great Britain: 3 April 2020 to 3 May 2020
Analysis of loneliness in Great Britain during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic from the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey. We explore who is reporting feeling lonely, what their lived experience is and how they are coping. This release uses four waves of survey results covering 3 April 2020 to 3 May 2020.
COVID-19 tests offered to every care home for elderly or those with dementia
Test kits have been offered to every care home for over-65s or those with dementia in England, reaching the testing target for 6 June.
COVID-19: laboratory evaluations of serological assays
PHE has undertaken a number of rapid evaluations of commercial serological assays for their suitability for detecting the production of COVID-19 antibodies. Updated Evaluation of Abbott SARS-CoV-2 IgG for the detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.
Number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk in the UK
The latest number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and risk level in the UK.
NHS volunteers extend support to frontline health and social care staff
Frontline health and care staff will be able to access support from the hundreds of thousands of NHS volunteer responders, Minister for Care Helen Whately announced today.
New UK deals will bring millions more PPE items to frontline healthcare staff
Millions more visors, aprons and gowns will be delivered to frontline health and social care workers treating coronavirus patients, manufactured in response to the UK government’s call to arms.
How tests and testing kits for coronavirus (COVID-19) work
The different types of tests and testing kits for COVID-19, and the specifications for manufacturers – added Target Product Profiles for Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) Antibody tests to help determine if people have antibodies to SARS-CoV-2
SPI-M-O: Consensus view on the impact of mass school closures, 10 February 2020
Consensus statement from the Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Modelling, Operational sub-group (SPI-M-O) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
Coronavirus (COVID-19): getting tested
Guidance on coronavirus testing, including who is eligible for a test and how to get tested. – added information and link to book a courier collection for used testing kits in care homes. Replaced ‘guidance on Randox testing’ and ‘guidance on non-Randox testing’. Removed: ‘This testing is currently only available in England. At the moment, you can only get tests if your care home looks after older people or people with dementia.’
Case fatality in hospitalised patients after 23 March 2020, 11 May 2020
Report for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
Use of blood plasma donations to treat COVID-19: recommendations from SaBTO
Recommendations from the Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood, Tissues and Organs (SaBTO) on the use of convalescent plasma to treat COVID-19.
MHRA guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19)
We are producing guidance and information for industry, healthcare professionals and patients covering the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak – added link to the Medical Device Alert (MDA) on results from laboratory-based tests for COVID-19 antibodies using capillary blood sample collection kits may not be reliable.
SPI-M-O: Consensus view on the impact of possible interventions to delay the spread of a UK outbreak of 2019-nCov, 3 February 2020
Consensus statement from the Scientific Pandemic Influenza Group on Modelling, Operational sub-group (SPI-M-O) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
PHE: Key issues for contact tracing for consideration by NERVTAG, 23 April 2020
Paper prepared by Public Health England (PHE) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
NERVTAG: Duration of infectiousness following symptoms onset in COVID-19, 13 April 2020
Paper prepared by the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
The R number in the UK
The reproduction number (R) is the average number of secondary infections produced by 1 infected person.
The R number range for the UK is 0.7-0.9 as of 5 June 2020.
OpenSAFELY: Factors associated with COVID-19 related hospital deaths in adult NHS patients, 28 April 2020
Cohort study looking at the factors associated with COVID-19 related hospital deaths.
COVID-19: PHE assessment of laboratory tests and assays
Information, resources and guidance relating to the evaluation of COVID-19 tests.
PPE portal: how to order emergency personal protective equipment
Healthcare providers can order additional personal protective equipment (PPE) through the portal to top up their existing supplies for COVID-19 in an emergency.
PHE: The effectiveness of interventions in Italy, 23 March 2020
Paper prepared by Public Health England (PHE) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
Coronavirus (COVID-19): scientific evidence supporting the UK government response
The national and global response to the spread of COVID-19 continues to develop quickly and our collective knowledge of the virus is growing by the second – updated the list of evidence provided to SAGE with 38 papers on health issues.
NERVTAG: Distance, time, handshakes, 12 March 2020
Paper prepared by the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
Coronavirus in pregnancy and delivery: rapid review and expert consensus, 9 March 2020
Rapid review prepared for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
An analysis of SARS-CoV-2 viral load by patient age, 30 April 2020
Paper prepared by academics on an analysis of SARS-CoV-2 viral load by patient age.
PHE: When to stop contact tracing – developing triggers from PHE systems, 20 February 2020
Paper prepared by Public Health England (PHE) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
PHE: SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV: What do we know about children?,
Paper prepared by Public Health England (PHE) and the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
HOSPITALITY:
UKHospitality has warned that, unless financial support is forthcoming, the reopening of hospitality businesses after months of lockdown will be at risk.
The trade body has written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Secretaries of State at BEIS, DCMS and HCLG, warning that hospitality businesses hammered by COVID-19 and facing difficult trading for the foreseeable future, will be unable to come to rent settlements without support. Its letter sets out measures to resolve the deadlock, including the possible introduction of: tax credits to incentivise rent waivers, property bounce back bonds to cover lost revenue form the closure period, and the introduction of a furloughed space grant scheme. The trade body has also reiterated its willingness to work with all parties to help deliver an equitable solution and support for the proposed Code of Practice to facilitate negotiations.
IT & TECHNOLOGY:
Genuine HMRC contact and recognising phishing emails and texts
Find out how to recognise when contact from HMRC is genuine, and how to recognise phishing or bogus emails and text messages – information added about SMS text messages for Tax credit.
JUDICIARY:
Courts and tribunals tracker list during coronavirus outbreak
Updated page that holds a tracker list of open, staffed and suspended courts during the coronavirus outbreak. It will be regularly updated.
HMCTS weekly operational summary on courts and tribunals during coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
This page provides a weekly summary of the HM Courts and Tribunals Service operational position during the coronavirus pandemic. We will aim to update this every Friday at 5pm.
MANUFACTURING:
PPE production starts in Grimsby thanks to Austrian investment
Austria-based Hygiene Austria are set to produce 10 million face masks per month in Grimsby in a project that will create around 60 new jobs in the next 3 months
PROPERTY:
Estate Agents face big challenge adjusting to ‘new normal’
A survey of estate agents conducted through trade publications has revealed that market uncertainty and the handling of transactions within government restrictions are the biggest challenges facing the industry. Last week Estate Agent Today was amongst trade titles conducting the survey for the new foundation Agents Together, created by the founders of Purplebricks, Michael and Kenny Bruce. Some 50 per cent of the respondents expressed concern about the uncertainty facing the industry, with 43 per cent worried about handling a growth in transaction numbers and 30 per cent specifically concerned about how to operate social distancing. Over 65 per cent of respondents said they would access the free mentoring scheme being promoted by the foundation for advice and training.
Business Desk: Commercial Property staging recovery as lockdown eases
Both office and industrial teams at Knight Frank in Manchester have reported a marked increase in online inquiries since the announcement of COVID-19 lock down rules easing. The regional spike tallies with analysis released by real estate search portal Rightmove which reported activity was six per cent higher in May this year than it was in May 2019. The industry sectors performing most strongly are industrial and logistics, land and development, retail and offices.
Housing market set for long-term recovery despite short-term dips
That’s the message from the latest house price index from the Halifax, which reveals a 0.2 per cent month-on-month decline in property values in May. “This is the third successive monthly fall, though more modest than in April, and reflects a continued loss of momentum following what was a strong start to the year” according to Russell Galley, managing director at Halifax. “Though it should still be noted that with a limited number of transactions available, calculating average house prices remains challenging and increased volatility is to be expected.”
Ban on evictions extended by 2 months to further protect renters
Renters across England and Wales will receive greater protection after the government extended the suspension of new evictions until 23 August.
Big rise in Buy-to-Let mortgages as market recovers
There’s been a significant increase in the mortgage choice available to landlords as the buy to let market gets closer to normal trading again after the lockdown. Independent mortgage monitor Moneyfacts says the choice in products has increased, and some higher loan-to-value average rates have reduced. Overall, there are 280 more buy to let products available now than there were at the start of May, just five weeks ago. The product choice at 75 per cent loan to value has increased by 46 two-year fixed rate deals and 54 more products are available in the five-year fixed rate bracket. The picture at 80 per cent LTV is similar, with this traditionally smaller sector increasing by 26 two-year fixed rate products and 20 more options available for those seeking a five-year fixed rate over the month.
RETAIL:
Retail sector ‘not out of the woods yet’
On a Total basis, sales decreased by 5.9% in May, against a decrease of 1.9% in May 2019*. This is the second worst decline recorded since our monitor began in January 1995, an improvement over April. It is above the 3-month average decline of 9.4% and below the 12m average decline of 2.6%. “Sales in May demonstrated yet another month of struggle for retailers across the country, despite an improvement on the previous month. Nonetheless, as the sun came out and restaurants lay dormant, food sales rose with consumers taking to their local parks for beers, BBQs and picnics. Clothing and beauty sales improved slightly on April, as people left their homes to meet outside with friends and family. Continuing the lockdown trend, office supplies, fitness equipment and bicycles all performed well, thanks to strong online sales and DIY was boosted by the opening of garden centres. However, for those shops whose doors remain shuttered it was once again a tough month and even those who stayed open suffered reduced footfall and huge costs implementing social distancing measures.”
A national restaurant owner has today confirmed plans that would see more than 200 sites at risk of closure.
The Restaurant Group, which reported on Monday that it was in talks with landlords over the future of 120 of its Frankie & Benny restaurants, today confirmed plans to close 125 sites, with a further 85 at risk. It said that those 85 sites’ futures will be subject to a reduction in rental costs and revised lease terms.
Jewellery retailer Beaverbrooks is preparing to reopen 58 of its stores in England on Monday – but customers should be prepared for a number of changes.
The retailer has revealed measures that have been put in place to keep staff and customers safe – but has insisted shoppers looking to buy a special gift, they can try on jewellery. The Lancashire-headquartered family business has installed clear screens at consultation points and said there will be fewer selling zones and reduced numbers allowed into stores. Other measures include floor markings to ensure safe social distancing, daily temperature checks for staff, and hand sanitizer stations at the entrance and throughout the store which will be mandatory for shoppers to use before entering.
Veggie Pret set to reopen alongside delivery service with Deliveroo
The 10 Veggie Pret shops in London and Manchester, which have been shut during the coronavirus pandemic, will reopen on 11th June with safety and social distancing measures in place
British Beer & Pub Association urges Government to make decision on opening
The association has also reiterated that even if pub beer gardens reopen from June 22nd, the priority must still be for ALL pubs to be free to reopen from July 4th as originally indicated in Government’s roadmap for the recovery of the economy
Association of Convenience Stores issues new guidance to support carers in shops
The guidance helps retailers and colleagues working in local stores to identify carers as the ACS look at ways to support the UK’s 6.5 million unpaid carers
Administrators appointed to Victoria’s Secret UK division
Victoria’s Secret UK, which employs hundreds of staff, has entered administration. The company – which is part of the iconic lingerie and loungewear brand – owns and operates stores across the country, having 25 leasehold sites. Rob Harding and Dan Butters, restructuring partners at Deloitte, have been appointed as part of a ‘light touch’ administration. It is currently envisaged that for the business to exit the administration process, it will be necessary to either restructure the lease terms across the portfolio and/or achieve a sale of the company’s assets to a third party. Employing approximately 800 staff, a total of 785 were on furlough at the time of the appointment.
Insider Business Matters: The future of the high street
Simon Bedford, partner at Deloitte in the North West, says following the government’s announcement that non-essential retailers may be allowed to resume trading on the 15th June, it’s possible that we are merely a few weeks away from town centre reopening to the public again. However, it is clear that in the nearly three months of disruption, Greater Manchester’s retail sector has suffered a significant blow. Analysis from Deloitte, in partnership with Google, revealed that retail and recreation activity fell by 68 per cent in April, with time spent at home up by nearly a quarter as lockdown took full effect. While government continues to provide significant support to towns across Greater Manchester – over £600m has been earmarked for up to 50,000 eligible businesses from across the regions – it is crucial that we have a clear plan in place to come out of this lockdown period. If we do not, we may see a number of empty shops remain once city centres reopen.
Coronavirus: Latest retailer announcements:
Debenhams will reopen its first stores in NI on Monday, followed by 50 shops in England on 15 June.
Primark is working to re-open all of its 153 stores in England on 15 June following the recent announcement by the UK Government. They will implement a strict social distancing protocol, provide personal protection for employees and customers and increase in-store cleaning. More information can be found here.
M&S has reopened five of their Bank branches: Leeds, Gateshead Metro Centre, Handforth Dean, Cribbs Causeway and Culverhouse Cross. Each brand is open 09:30 – 14:30 Monday – Friday.
DFS has re-opened 88 more showrooms in England in the next stage of phased re-opening plan following a successful test and learn period in three stores. All reopened showrooms will be operating with extensive new processes and safety measures in place in line with Government and British Retail Consortium guidance.
Pret has announced it will open 204 more shops on 1 June for takeaway and delivery, including locations in Newcastle, Liverpool, Exeter, Bournemouth and Bath.
Morrisons has launched a £20 next-day delivery flowers service so customers can send their family and friends a bouquet direct to their door during the lockdown.
BRC: How to thrive in the new retail landscape
In the third session of our FREE interactive webinar series we will be exploring The Impact of COVID-19 on ‘This Sector’ with Neil Gibb, Consultant, Speaker, Mentor, Coach and Social Innovator. We caught up with Neil ahead of the webinar to get a preview of what he’ll be sharing:
TRANSPORT:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): requirements to provide public health information to passengers travelling to England
Information that transport operators must ensure is provided to passengers and how to provide it.
New powers for councils to keep cyclists safe
Local authorities will be given new tools to support cyclists to create a greener and more resilient transport network, Cycling Minister Chris Heaton-Harris has announced today (10 June 2020). Local authorities in England will have new powers to use CCTV to issue penalty charge notices to drivers who park or load illegally in mandatory cycle lanes, putting cyclists at risk of a serious accident. Cars parked on cycle lanes pose problems for cyclists, often forcing them into the flow of traffic. With approved camera devices, it will be easier for those local authorities with civil parking enforcement powers to take action against cars illegally parked on mandatory cycle lanes, allowing cyclists to complete their journeys without deviating from their path.
TRAVEL:
Jet2 postpones July holiday restart by two weeks to July 15th
Jet2 said it was “working closely with all relevant authorities” to ensure the safety of passengers and guests – and would be introducing a range of safety measures on aircraft and transfer vehicles/
Airlines seek quarantine injunction as holiday bookings take off
The number of Britons booking holidays abroad has doubled in a week amid claims that the “irrational” quarantine on arrivals into the UK could be quashed by the courts. International Airlines Group is planning to file papers with the High Court today requesting an urgent hearing to apply for an injunction against the policy. The legal challenge is being backed by Ryanair and EasyJet.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) essential international travel guidance
The guidance on travel during the COVID-19 pandemic has been updated as the new rules for entering the UK (providing contact details and self-isolating) come into force. The Foreign & Commonwealth Office advises against all but essential travel.
Travel advice: coronavirus (COVID-19)
Guidance for British people travelling overseas during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic updated as the new rules for entering the UK (providing contact details and self-isolating) come into force
Coronavirus (COVID-19): travellers exempt from border rules in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland
This guidance explains who will be exempt from new border rules in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland introduced due to coronavirus. The rules will apply to travellers to the UK from 8 June 2020. Exemptions to border rules have been extended to Scotland. Some rules in Scotland are different to those England and Northern Ireland.
Booking special charter flights during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
This page has been updated as the new rules for entering the UK (providing contact details and self-isolating) come into force and explains who is eligible to register for special charter flights, and how the booking process works to return to the UK during the coronavirus pandemic.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): advice for UK visa applicants and temporary UK residents
This is advice for visa customers and applicants in the UK, visa customers outside of the UK and British nationals overseas who need to apply for a passport affected by travel restrictions associated with coronavirus – updated information if you are outside the UK, getting your documents and for British nationals abroad who need to apply for a passport.
Home Office: Scientific advice on restricting flights from specific countries, 22 March 2020
Paper prepared by the Home Office for the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).
WTTC: Quarantine and travel ban risk nearly three million UK travel jobs
Lifting quarantine, establishing air bridges, adopting global health and safety protocols, and implementing a rapid test and trace strategy will be vital to protecting nearly three million at-risk travel and tourism jobs in the UK, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).
Coronavirus (COVID-19): how to self-isolate when you travel to the UK
Sets out how to self-isolate if you arrive in the UK on or after 8 June 2020. You will not be allowed to leave the place you’re staying for the first 14 days you’re in the UK – added links to the public health passenger locator form in the ‘Exemptions’ section.
Useful Links:
Cheshire East Council – Discretionary Fund
Businesses that have been unable to access other forms of Covid-19 support can apply for grants from a £4.68 million fund.
http://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/covidDGS
Apply for the coronavirus Future Fund
The Future Fund will provide UK Government loans to UK-based companies ranging from £125,000 to £5 million, subject to at least equal match funding from private investors.
Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme set to launch
Employers will be able to make claims through the Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme from 26 May.
Cheshire East Council – Business rates grants
https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/business/business_rates/business-rates-relief/coronavirus-covid-19-help-for-business-rates-customers.aspx
Government – Guidance on Returning to Work safely
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19
Government – Setting out of Road Map to recovery – 11th May 2020
Our plan to rebuild: The UK Government’s 60 page COVID-19 recovery strategy
The UK Government’s COVID-19 recovery strategy. The strategy sets out a cautious roadmap to easing existing measures in a safe and measured way, subject to successfully controlling the virus and being able to monitor and react to its spread.
Coronavirus Act 2020: status
A table setting out the status of each measure in the Coronavirus Act 2020.
Government – Financial Support
New 100% government backed loan scheme for small business
Government – Financial Support
CBILS – A guide to whether it may be the best options for a business
Government – Financial Support
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – online claims portal open
Government – Business Support:
Government launches new coronavirus business support finder tool
Government – Business Support Hub:
https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support
Government – Financial Support: HMRC has published guidance on how it will work out income and profits for the self-employed or those in a partnership who have lost profits due to coronavirus.
Government – Business Support:
https://www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support/
Government – Business Support: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19
Government – Financial Support: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-on-business-support-grant-funding
Government – Business Support: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/covid-19-support-for-businesses
Bank of England – Financial Support: https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/news/2020/march/the-covid-corporate-financing-facility
Cheshire and Warrington Growth Hub
Gov.uk: Maintaining Educational Provision: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-maintaining-educational-provision/guidance-for-schools-colleges-and-local-authorities-on-maintaining-educational-provision
UK Lockdown – Further businesses to close and exceptions: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/874732/230320_-_Revised_guidance_note_-_finalVF
Health – updates from NHS
https://www.england.nhs.uk/news/
Health – Shielding the most vulnerable https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19
Media and Marketing:
Travel: https://media.northernrailway.co.uk/news/coronavirus-travel-information
Recruitment: – DWP and Universal Credit: http://news.dwp.gov.uk/dwplz/lz.aspx?p1=MQsDU1NjQ5MlM2OTA0OjNCNDJBOEZCRTJDOUJEOTc1ODQ0RTRCRDNDNzk4QUNF-&CC=&p=0
Retail: An update form British Retail Consortium https://brc.org.uk/news/corporate-affairs/coronavirus-latest-retailer-activity/
Resources available from Acas:
Redundancy letter templates
Redundancy process map Acas have also contributed to the development of a new return to work toolkit in partnership with SOM, CIPD, BITC and Mind.
Small businesses received £21.3 billion in COVID-19 support from local authority grants 
Two year extension announced for Covid Recovery Loan scheme 
Research finds Covid-19 has not fundamentally changed the UK labour market