Sutton Scene - Deputy Leader of the Council Column

This will mean we can venture out more freely and socialise outdoors with up to five other people.

It will also mean shops and businesses can reopen and I hope people will look to shop locally, especially to support our smaller independent businesses that have had a very tough year. Restaurants, entertainment venues and leisure facilities are also able to reopen, although measures will be in place to help prevent transmission of the virus.

We will be allowed to visit places of worship once again and weddings, civil partnerships and receptions can go ahead but restricted to a maximum of 15 guests.

As the restrictions will differ from other parts of the country placed in other Tiers, the Council is employing Stay Safe Champions to be available across the borough providing advice and guidance on keeping safe to residents and businesses.

Many people have been struggling financially through this difficult year and the Government has provided grants and funding to assist those affected. Do contact the Council if you are struggling to afford food or pay your bills so we can direct you to help. Businesses can check the council website to see if they are eligible for any of the grants available - and look out for the Council’s discretionary scheme to be announced shortly.

We can give our care workers and NHS workers a good Christmas if we follow the rules and keep safe this December. This will reduce the pressure on them to care for us. They too want to spend time with their families over the festive season, so being extra careful will be the best way we can thank them for all their hard work through this difficult year.