Sutton Scene - Deputy Leader of the Council Column 06/11/20

None of us could have imagined what a challenging year 2020 would be and all of us in Sutton have had to adapt to the very difficult situation that Coronavirus has placed us in.

As we start this new lockdown, it’s really important that we all stick to the rules and look out for each other in Sutton. This means that, just like earlier this year, we should all stay at home as much as possible and work from home if we can.

This is hard for all Sutton residents and businesses, but it is really important that we all stick to the rules. Together we can reduce the number of people catching the virus, protect our families, friends and neighbours, and save lives. I want to thank you for your patience, your resilience and your positive spirit – I know that in Sutton we will stand together as a community again.

The lockdown restrictions will be in place until at least 2 December. During this time the only reasons you should leave your home are:

• for education or to provide childcare 

• for outdoor exercise and recreation on your own, with people from your household or support bubble, or one other person not from your household

• for work, but only if you cannot work from home  

• to shop for food and essentials 

• for medical reasons, appointments and to escape injury or harm 

• to visit members of your support bubble or to provide care for vulnerable people, or as a volunteer 

You can see the full guidance on the new restrictions here.

The coming weeks will be very difficult for many Sutton residents, but please be reassured that the Council is here to help anyone affected by coronavirus. You can visit the council website for the most up to date information about council services during lockdown and all the help and support available. Vital council services will continue to run, including rubbish and recycling collections. You can check our website for the latest updates or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. We stand ready once again, with our voluntary and community sector partners, to support any Sutton resident in need.

Many of you will be understandably worried about these restrictions. Some will be worried about the financial impact on your families, while others will fear loneliness and isolation. I can’t pretend it will be easy, but I can promise you that the Council will do everything it can to support you through this hugely difficult time.

It is also important to remember that the lockdown this time is slightly different from last time. 

You can see a friend. You can take a book out from our libraries. You can use our parks and green spaces to give yourselves a break and some time out of the house. You can order food and watch a film at home. You can, and should, see a doctor if you need to. It is important that health needs, in particular mental health needs, are met in Sutton.

Another important act of remembrance will be taking place this week too. In the coming days we will be remembering those who gave their lives in the two world wars and other conflicts. Events will be very different this year because of the lockdown, but we can all still remember at home for Sutton’s Civic Act of Remembrance.

This year has already shown how people in Sutton step up and support each other in difficult times. We will get through the coming weeks by keeping that strong community spirit alive, standing strong and supporting each other. 

Thank you again for continuing to do your bit to keep Sutton safe.