The new normal We take a look at what you need to know now lockdown restrictions are easing
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s Southwark Life went to press, the borough, along with the rest of the country, was starting to see some of the restrictive lockdown measures be relaxed. Some children have returned to schools, people can spend more time outside with friends and family and some shops are re-opening.
Of course all this is subject to change and the message is still very clear – this is a potentially life-threatening illness and we need to continue to do all we can to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Whilst many people will be getting back to normal – or some version of it – the impact of COVID-19 and the lockdown continues to be felt by many. We’ve rounded up what you might need to know now, and where you can continue to get support.
Backing business On Monday 8 June the council announced a further £3.4 million discretionary grants fund for local small businesses and market traders. The funding is for small local businesses that have suffered a significant fall in income due to the COVID-19 pandemic but did not qualify for earlier government support schemes, or were unsuccessful in applying for the Southwark Business Hardship Fund in April.
Supporting our local residents Southwark Council, the local NHS and GP surgeries, charities and community and volunteer groups have come together to reach more people and make sure that everyone in the community has one-stop access to the right support during this difficult time. The Southwark Community Hub is available to anyone in Southwark and provides a place to go to where you can email or chat to someone to get advice and support on a range of issues from finances to mental health. Please contact the Community Hub at covidsupport@southwark.gov.uk or call 020 7525 5000 if you would like to chat to someone about your concern. If you want to find out information about local services and support for residents and businesses please see the council webpages at www.southwark.gov.uk/coronavirus
Grants will be allocated on a rolling basis, according to the need and size of successful applicants, until the fund is exhausted. Payments will be made as soon as possible after successful applications. For more information on the scheme, eligibility criteria and how to apply go to www.southwark.gov.uk/discretionarygrantsfund
Respect our parks and cemeteries Southwark’s parks and open spaces, including our cemeteries, are coming into their own and serving as gardens and meeting places for many people at the moment. Most visitors are following government guidance and taking care of themselves, while respecting each other, our staff and vulnerable members of the community. However, all the extra visitors do put our green spaces under additional strain. Our wardens and park liaison officers are patrolling parks and open spaces on a daily basis and working closely with police colleagues. We also have a new, specific patrol presence in Burgess Park, seven days a week. 8
southwark.gov.uk
Thank you for your continued support in keeping our open spaces clean. • Follow social distancing rules and respect other park users, police officers and our staff - who are trying to keep our parks safe, clean and pleasant for everybody • NO barbecues • Take your litter home and clean up after your dog • Go home to use the toilet • Do not play amplified music over speakers • Cemeteries are for quiet reflection and mourning. Please be respectful to those who have lost loved ones while you visit.
