Coronavirus update 11 November 2021
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A message from Cllr Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council
At the time of writing it is encouraging to see signs of international co-operation between China and the US at the COP26 climate summit. It's a step in the right direction among world leaders, showing commitment on tackling the climate emergency. Locally, we will keep making the case and also taking action on things that make a real difference to our residents. You can keep up to date with what we are doing to tackle the climate and ecological emergency on our newsroom here and by following our dedicated twitter account, GreenBathNES.
Another issue where we need to have the council’s voice heard is on how central government allocates funding to councils. The government acknowledges that the current system is unfair, but changes have been delayed. So we are teaming up with around 20 fellow low-funded councils to ensure our residents get a fairer share of the national funding pot for councils. We’ve written the Secretary of State making the case for an immediate injection of finance to councils like our own which have to deal with impact of these national decisions, and I will let you know the outcome.
A more positive figure released this week is that the amount of waste recycled across Bath and North East Somerset last year has reached its highest level since records began with a Reuse, Recycling and Composting rate of 59.2% for 2020/21.
This really is a phenomenal achievement, and its shows our residents take environmental issues seriously. We should be very proud of the work being done by to reuse and recycle – and that includes the efforts of our waste teams who do such a great job under very challenging conditions that are impacting on the service. Unfortunately today, due to driver shortage and staff sickness, the garden waste collection for some residents has been affected and we are doing all we can to resolve this.
Last night we held our virtual cabinet, which is on our YouTube channel. I'm pleased to say plans have been approved for the first new general needs council houses to be built in a generation in Bath and North East Somerset. This will mean 58 new council houses to rent to help meet the demand for affordable homes in the area.
I'm afraid it is mixed news on the Covid figures. On a positive note, our figures are continuing to fall. However, our rates are high in our 60-74-year-old residents and currently higher than other local authorities in the South West. So please get your booster jab if you are eligible. If it has been five months since your second Covid-19 vaccination you can now go onto the National Booking System to book your booster appointment – but remember the booster vaccination can only be given six months after your last dose.
With COVID-19 cases also high in school-aged children, please remember to regularly LFD test to help identify if your child is asymptomatic early. This will help to protect older family members.
Finally I was honoured to take part in The Veterans Charity and GWR’s Poppies to Paddington wreath ceremony to mark Armistice Day today and I will be paying my respects on Sunday – you can find out here about events taking place across Bath and North East Somerset to commemorate Remembrance Day.
Have a good weekend.
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| These are the latest Covid case figures for B&NES – please play your part to drive the number down. |
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Getting your Covid-19 vaccine
Parents across Bath and North East Somerset can now arrange for their children aged 12 to 15 to receive a coronavirus vaccine using the online National Booking Service.
Out-of-school vaccinations have been introduced to supplement what is already happening in schools and will continue to be available throughout November.
The National Booking Service can be accessed online by visiting www.nhs.uk or over the phone by calling 119.
Information about the local rollout of the coronavirus vaccine, including details of vaccination centres and an extensive list of frequently asked questions, is available here. |
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Book your booster jabs now
If it's been five months since your second Covid-19 vaccination, you can now access the National Booking System to book your booster appointment. Booster vaccines can still only be given six months after your second dose, but you can access the booking system sooner so you can get the jab as soon as you are ready. You can book or manage your appointment via the nHS website, or by calling the 119 number (lines open every day 7am to 11pm).
As well as Covid-19, it's worth remembering that other winter viruses are on the rise, including flu. As fewer people have built up a natural immunity to flu during the pandemic, more people are likely to get the it this winter. Research shows that you're more likely to be seriously ill if you get flu and Covid-19 at the same time.
Getting vaccinated against both flu and Covid-19 will provide protection for you and those around you against both of these serious illnesses. Find out if you’re eligible this autumn/winter. |
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Covid-19 vaccination clinics
The vaccination clinics planned at the University of Bath on Thursday 11, 18 and 25 November will now only offer booked appointments to students from the University of Bath, arranged through the University directly, for first and second doses.
To find an alternative walk-in site, please visit here, or to book a vaccine appointment, visit the National Booking Service or call 119.
A walk-in vaccination clinic is still running at Bath Racecourse on non-race days. For those travelling to the racecourse by bus, the shuttle from the Park and Ride at Lansdown will no longer be available from this Saturday 13 November, due to driver shortages.
For more information about how and when you can get the bus here.
All buses will be wheelchair accessible. For more information about the service can be found here.
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Stopping transmission in families
Covid-19 rates in our residents aged 60-74 are currently higher than any other local authority area in the south west, and it's really important we act to help protect this age group, who are among the most vulnerable to Covid-19.
If you're now eligible for your booster, please make sure you book yours to give you added protection.
With case rates high in school-age children, it's also really important that families in particular take a regular LFD test to help identify asymptomatic cases and help protect those older family members. |
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 Asymptomatic Covid-19 testing
Remember to look out for our mobile test and collect van. Locations are published on our website, and you can pick up test kits or have a supervised test. Trained outreach workers will also answer questions about Covid-19 vaccinations.
Please do not attend the van or the test and collect hub in New Bond Street if you have any of the symptoms of Covid-19. Take a PCR test instead.
You can also pick up test kits from our libraries in: Timsbury, Radstock, Bishop Sutton, Weston, Midsomer Norton, Keynsham and also Bath One Stop Shop. |
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City traffic update
The city is likely to experience further congestion this coming weekend as necessary repair work continues on the Cleveland Bridge, as well as the Wessex Water sewer pipe works at the Ambury which has to happen to allow redevelopment of the area.
Therefore for this weekend please plan your journey in advance. We encourage residents and visitors to use alternative forms of travel where possible, using the P&R sites and other sustainable transport modes such as the train, walking, cycling and scooting. Where possible please avoid the Ambury area.
Please note that access to the Avon Street car park will be via Green Park Road and not via the Ambury.
The Wessex Water sewer pipe works are due to finish next week, to minimise traffic congestion during the peak Christmas period, then re-commence in the new year. Therefore traffic flow in the area will return to normal next week.
There are also road closures on Sunday as the city remembers those who sacrificed themselves in the many conflicts we have experienced, and honours both veterans and serving officers along with those who have paid the ultimate price. |
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Have your say on mental health services
You can help us shape the way mental health services are delivered in Bath and North East Somerset through the mental health care pathway consultation.
Open until 19 December, the consultation is a chance to learn about, and comment on, the proposed pathway to greater independence for people with specialist mental health needs.
You can see the consultation pages here. We will treat any feedback you give us in this consultation in strictest confidence. |
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Waste collection reminder
We are sorry but some garden waste collections have been suspended today (11 November) to ensure that we can prioritise the black bin and kerbside recycling routes.
To check if your property has been affected visit our waste disruptions page. If your collection has been affected please retain your garden waste and put your bin out again on your next scheduled collection.
We are doing everything possible to reduce disruption to collections but the national shortage of HGV drivers is continuing to impact on the waste and recycling services, alongside staff sickness.
We will arrange for all residents affected by the suspended garden waste collections to have an extension to their existing subscriptions.
We thank you for your patience and understanding in difficult circumstances. |
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Sydney Gardens launches Tree Weekender programme
Sydney Gardens has released the programme of events for its Tree Weekender, encouraging people to join a range of walks and creative sessions in the gardens and an online programme of activities and talks. |
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Seasonal Gift a Book campaign calls for donations
Libraries in Bath and North East Somerset are inviting book donations, to be gifted to people in the community who may not otherwise receive a Christmas present. |
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Supporting residents to financial wellbeing
It can be a taboo subject, but residents across Bath and North East Somerset are being urged to talk about money and personal finances to help improve their mental health and wellbeing. |
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Remembrance Day events reminder
People wishing to pay their respects are being reminded about events taking place across Bath and North East Somerset to commemorate Remembrance Day. |
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Record breaking recycling for B&NES
The amount of waste recycled across Bath and North East Somerset last year has reached its highest level since records began. |
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New mobility equipment daily hire service
Residents and visitors in Bath needing the use of mobility equipment when out and about can now hire items by the day from a local business. |
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Council meeting calendar
Do you want to know about decisions being taken by the council and have your say? Please follow this link to the council’s calendar of meetings. |
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Latest Government guidance
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Providing home care
Information for those providing personal care to people living in their own home during the coronavirus outbreak. |
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Finding and choosing a private coronavirus (COVID-19) test provider
Lists of and information about private test providers, to help you get the private COVID-19 tests you need. |
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New measures in Bill to assist commercial landlords and tenants in resolving rent debts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic
Commercial tenants mandated to close to be further protected from enforcement action to pave the way for proportionate resolution of COVID-19 related rent debts. |
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Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Find out how to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading in your workplace. |
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Follow us online
You can follow us on twitter, facebook and instagram; subscribe to us on YouTube, read the latest releases on our newsroom and if you sign up on nextdoor we are there too.
For updates on our services visit our website. |
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Employment and Skills Pod
Are you returning to work after a short or long break? Perhaps you are already in work and planning to change the direction of your career? The Employment & Skills Pod can help you find the right opportunities.
Since launching in March, more than 50 B&NES residents have been helped with their job, business and training goals. Here is what some of them said about our services:
- “Friendly professionals giving helpful and spot on advice. Really appreciate your help.”
- “Great help during the uncertain process of attempting to change careers.”
- “Great communication. They have endeavoured to seek out potential possibilities to push my career in the right direction. I would highly recommend this free careers service.”
- “The service was very professional and thorough.”
Call us now on 0300 247 0050 or email us on EmploymentSkills_Pod@bathnes.gov.uk. You can also find out more on the website. |
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Live Well B&NES adults
A brand-new, web-based resource providing information, signposting and support to residents in Bath & North East Somerset has launched.
Live Well B&NES provides a wealth of useful information, signposting and resources for families, including Ofsted registered childcare, children and young people with additional needs (our SEND Local Offer) and adults needing care or support to live independently.
Information, services and groups are regularly added to Live Well B&NES. If you work with, support, provide services or run groups for children and young people or for adults needing care or support (such as older people, adults with physical disabilities and/or sensory impairments, people living with mental ill health), and haven’t already registered - make sure you’re included! It’s free and takes less than five minutes to register.
Find out more:
https://livewell.bathnes.gov.uk/
www.facebook.com/livewellbathnes
www.instagram.com/Youth_Info_Bathnes |
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Future Bright
Do you know someone who is in work and wants to take the next step in their career? Future Bright offers FREE careers coaching, support and access to training. Future Bright Careers Coaches work with local residents to develop the skills and confidence needed to improve their work and pay. Check out the Future Bright newsletter to read about those who have already benefitted from the project.
For more information go to www.futurebright.org.uk or give us a call 01225 395555. |
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Specialised dementia groups in B&NES
Age UK Bath & North East Somerset are starting two new specialised Dementia Groups, which are now running weekly in Midsomer Norton & Bath.
These groups are a safe, fun environment for people to come for activities and friendship. Staff are trained in Maintenance Cognitive Behaviour Therapy which helps concentration, confidence, memory and wellbeing.
You can find out more here or call 01225 466135. |
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Do you look after someone else?
If you support someone who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, addiction or who needs extra help as they grow older, Bath and North East Somerset Carers’ Centre is here for you.
Their friendly team will listen to any concerns you have, offer practical advice and access to free wellbeing activities to ensure you’re happy and healthy in your caring role. Contact our freephone support line: 0800 038 8885 or email us. We’re available 8:15am-12pm, every weekday. |
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Support available from the Community Wellbeing Hub
Anybody who is a resident of Bath and North East Somerset can benefit from support from the Community Wellbeing Hub, including those people who are isolating due to testing positive for Covid-19 or being in contact with someone who has Covid-19.
Originally a collaboration between Bath & North East Somerset Council; Virgin Care; the 3SG; Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group; and other third sector organisation representatives, the team can offer a range of support services such as mental health, returning home from hospital, income, housing and benefits advice, emergency food, as well as lifestyle services for help with stopping smoking, getting active or losing weight.
To contact the Hub:
Phone: 0300 247 0050.
Email: CWHBanes@virgincare.co.uk
Website: http://communitywellbeinghub.co.uk
Text: 07870 868368
Opening hours: Monday–Friday, 9am until 5pm
If you need to contact the council about its services please ring Council Connect on 01225 394041 or email Council_connect@bathnes.gov.uk |
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Domestic abuse
Southside provides help to people who live in Bath & North East Somerset who are at risk of domestic violence and abuse. The working hours are 9am-5pm Monday-Thursday, and 9am-4pm Fridays. Local support services can be found here. |
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Sight loss support
Sight Support West of England provides emotional and practical support to help people adjust to living with sight loss. Since lockdown this has been either online or over the phone. Now following careful planning, some Covid-secure face-to-face support sessions are resuming on an appointment only basis.
Your Community Sight Loss Adviser will be available at Manvers Street Baptist Church, Bath on the first Wednesday each month and at Midsomer Norton Town Hall on the 4th Thursday each month.
To find out more, or make an appointment please call 0117 3224885 or email For more information on the full range of services visit www.sightsupportwest.org.uk
For more useful information visit the RNIB website: www.rnib.org.uk/ |
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Local agencies and useful links
We have been working closely with local agencies and if you would like to find out more about their work please look on their website: RUH, Avon and Somerset Police, Curo, and Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire CCG.
- Public Health England updates a daily dashboard: https://coronavirus.data.gov.uk/ It includes deaths that have occurred in all settings where there has been a positive Covid-19 test, including hospitals, care homes and the wider community.
- Latest information on coronavirus: www.gov.uk/coronavirus
NHS information on coronavirus: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ |
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Tune in
Local radio is a great way of keeping up to date with essential information, if you don’t already you should tune into BBC Radio Bristol, BBC Radio Somerset or BBC Radio Wiltshire. |
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Somer Valley FM covers Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Westfield and surrounding villages including Farrington, Paulton, Peasedown, Coleford and Stratton.
Broadcast online and on 97.5fm you can contact at studio@somervalleyfm.co.uk or call 01761 411 755 |
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| Bath Radio is a community radio station which has been operating as a hospital radio station for the past 50 years. It now broadcasts to the wider Bath community. Listen online. |
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| Radio Bath provides local news and information, promotes the city and supports its businesses, charities and community organisations. |
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Keynsham’s KTCRfm 105.8FM is now broadcasting 24/7.
KTCRfm covers Keynsham, Saltford, Hanham, Bitton, Warmley, Clutton, Timsbury, the Chew Valley and as far south as Temple Cloud. East to the eastern edge of Bath. North across South Gloucestershire to the M4 corridor and west into many parts of Bristol. |
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BA1 Radio have been established for a year in Bath and operate from a studio in Southside Youth Hub, broadcasting twelve hours of shows every weekday, focusing on Bath and the local community, including hourly news reports.
website: www.BA1Radio.org
call: 01225 941 080
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