The leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council has written to the Prime Minister to request additional support from the Government in relation to the ongoing health emergency in Hull and the East Riding posed by COVID-19, with cases in the area continuing to rise.
In his letter, Councillor Richard Burton expressed support for the city of Hull and echoed calls from Councillor Stephen Brady OBE, leader of Hull City Council, for further Government assistance.
East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Hull City Council have worked together with their Humber Local Resilience Forum partners to try to reduce infection rates and provide support to residents, businesses and schools.
Hull City Council’s infection rate is now one of the highest in the country and East Riding’s continues to increase.
Councillor Richard Burton, leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “During this difficult time, it is vital that the East Riding and Hull continue to work together to drive down infection rates.
“Our public health teams have done a brilliant job working tirelessly to provide advice, guidance and support and deal with infection outbreaks throughout the pandemic and, whilst we have coped well so far, if we are to make the best use of the new lateral flow tests and plan effectively as an area for mass vaccination – as well as dealing with the current infection rates – we urgently need some additional support.
“We have asked for additional support from Public Health England and the Joint Biosecurity Centre to support our local directors of public health leading the pandemic analysis and response as well as assistance with logistics and technical advice for the proposed wider lateral flow tests and mass vaccination rollout.
“All of our staff have done a fantastic job of keeping people as safe as possible. We are proud to be key workers and to continue doing our part in responding to this emergency and to support our residents, businesses and communities. However, we will need more help to keep the infection rates down.”
The pressure facing the area’s hospitals is critical, as these serve both the East Riding and Hull and, for some services, North and North East Lincolnshire.
Three out of the four authorities are in the top 20 areas suffering the highest levels of infection rates. Additional resources and support are required if the hospitals are not to be overrun.
Councillor Burton added: “Most of our residents have become heroes themselves by staying home when they have been asked to and by following our public health campaign message; the 3 Steps To Safety, which asks people to Prevent. Notice. Act.
“Prevent the spread of the virus by washing your hands regularly, respect social distancing and wear a face-covering unless exempt. Notice the symptoms and Act by self-isolating immediately and get a COVID-19 test.”
