Weekly Update from the Leader and Chief Executive

Dear Friends

As 2022 draws to a close our thoughts turn to those who will be reflecting on a year of loss, hardship and disappointment. The twists and turns of the pandemic have impacted on some far more than others, so as we come together at this darkest time of year, let’s be thoughtful, reach out to neighbours, the elderly or those who are on their own.

We can be thankful too for the countless acts of kindness across our communities and the selfless commitment of our health carers and volunteers. It feels that this Christmas the light is shining more brightly than last, and that after all that we’ve been through together, we’ve so much for which to be thankful.

For those of us who are fortunate to be with family and friends over this festive season, let’s be mindful that local Covid infection levels rose sharply this week from 492 to 776.4 cases per 100,000 people. To ensure the New Year gets off to a safe and positive start, it’s important that we take the necessary precautions including regular tests, to protect our nearest and dearest.

The local booster campaign is now running at pace. We once again want to pay tribute to the NHS and volunteer teams who will be stoically working right through the holidays to get jabs in as many arms as possible, before the year is out. If you’re interested in joining these amazing volunteers, details are available here.

Vaccination is the very best defence against serious Covid illness or hospitalisation, so if you haven’t had yours please do book your booster (or first/second jab) for the protection needed during these critical winter months.

Walk-in booster vaccine clinics are also open on:

• Tuesday 28 December, 8.30am to 3pm
  Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, Adelaide Road, Leamington Spa CV32 5AH (with free parking at Adelaide Bridge)
• Wednesday 29 December, 8.30am to 3pm
  The Sydni Centre, Cottage Square, Sydenham, Leamington Spa CV31 1PT

We’ve been pushing ahead with a number of key elements of the local Recovery Plan this week, including:

• Getting extra support to our rough sleepers. It’s been estimated that across the District this year six people have been sleeping rough, which is two more than last year, but significantly less than the 21 rough sleepers reported in 2019. Combatting and preventing homelessness is testament to the positive work of our housing team working in partnership with the NHS, Warwickshire Police, voluntary and community sector groups and many others. We’re especially grateful for their ongoing and often unseen work, which will continue through this festive season to directly assist those without a place to call home.
• Preparing to administer the new business grant scheme. Our finance and business support teams are on standby to roll-out the new grants scheme and provide further Covid-19 assistance to businesses. Once the government confirms details of the new schemes, our website will be updated and further information shared directly.
• Submitting the proposal to create a new South Warwickshire District Council. A formal submission document has been sent to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove MP, seeking permission for a full political merger with Stratford-on-Avon District Council.
• Granting planning permission to create an ultra-low carbon business centre. Located on vacant land close to Tachbrook Park, 61 flexible, commercial units will be constructed for businesses seeking sustainable and eco efficient premises.

And finally… with just 217 days until the Opening Ceremony, preparations are in full swing to welcome spectators and competitors to the Commonwealth Games.

We’re seeking to make a local connection with each of the 54 participating countries, from Antigua to Zambia. Share your memories and experiences of any part of the Commonwealth, by sending a photo, story or a short video to be posted on our Commonwealth Connections website page. To find out more about how you can be part of this exciting celebration, please visit here.

With every best wish for Christmas and a peaceful, healthy new year.

Andrew Day   Leader                                  Chris Elliott    Chief Executive

2022. Our next Update will be published on Friday 7 January 2022.