Published on:
19
March 2020
Like Councils throughout the country, we have been working on plans to continue to deliver services as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. National estimates suggest we could see absences of at least 50% over the months ahead which will put pressure on our already stretched resources.
We are closely following government and NHS advice and as a result, currently over 20% of our staff are off work either due to COVID-19 related symptoms or are having to self isolate because they are in a high risk category, general illness or because they have caring responsibilities and are unable to come into work. The recent decision to close schools after Friday 20 March is also likely to have a huge impact but we have been developing a number of options that will assist us in managing this situation.
All these factors are already having a significant impact on the Council’s and our partners’ capacity to carry out our core functions. Our plans are now focussing on moving all our available staff and resources to provide essential services for our most vulnerable residents who are our main priority. In doing this, we are concentrating on our statutory duties under the Civil Contingencies Act, and we are working with all our resilience partners to deliver this.
Now that we are making this change, business as usual is no longer possible, and we will be moving to deliver urgent services only which directly involve the most vulnerable in our community.
We will provide more information to our residents as our plans are finalised. This is an unprecedented time for everyone, and we are grateful for your understanding and patience while we make these necessary changes to the services we provide. Residents should continue to check our dedicated webpages to keep up to date with developments.
Locally, we know that we have many voluntary groups who are already working in our communities and want to help others cope in these uncertain times. We are already coordinating efforts with many local groups, and further national guidance is expected on this to help local people.
It is vital that we all follow the most recent government and NHS advice, to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of our residents. This is available from NHS Inform.
Clackmannanshire has always had strong and resilient communities, and as a Council we are doing our very best to support our residents. We are grateful for everyone’s help, understanding and patience which will make sure we get through this difficult situation together.