I’m writing to you with my latest update on the response to the
Coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic in
Harrow. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌


[CV Update from GT]

Dear John,

This is an update following last week’s news that at least two cases
of the South African variant had been found in Harrow. I understand
over 3700 tests 🧪 have now taken place in parts of NORTH HARROW,
HATCH END, MARLBOROUGH, WEALDSTONE, HARROW WEALD and BELMONT with 15
positive tests found so far. The council are waiting on the genomic
sequencing results to determine if there are further cases of the
South African variant (or any other variant of concern). With door to
door knocking and leafleting complete, testing has moved to local
businesses and five schools within the surge tested areas: PINNER PARK
PRIMARY, BELMONT PRIMARY, HATCH END HIGH, SHAFTESBURY HIGH AND ST
TERESA'S CATHOLIC SECONDARY. In the event that more variants of
concern emerge in Harrow, I will be sure to update you on the response
locally, including any expansion in surge testing.

CLICK HERE FOR MY LATEST VIDEO UPDATE ON SURGE TESTING IN HARROW
[[link removed]]

🦠 Over the past week, Harrow has seen 129 cases of coronavirus,
which is a drop in 4 cases from last week. The rate per 100,000 is
down to 48 in Harrow today; down from 66 just a month ago. Admission
rates to Northwick Park hospital over the past seven days is down
to 12, from 19 last week. Whilst the level of Covid-19 circulating
in the community remains lower than a few weeks ago, the fall in cases
is slowing down. We continue to monitor the impact of children and
young people going back to school, but we are seeing a small increase
in the number of young people testing positive. The need to stay
vigilant, to wear a mask, wash hands & socially distance remains
critical, especially with the emergence of variants of concern in
Harrow. 

🧪 If you feel fine and are leaving the house on a regular basis –
be sure to get a free rapid test and help stop the asymptomatic
spread. Rapid test centres are opening across Harrow and have stopped
hundreds of people from spreading Coronavirus so far. 1 in 3 people
with Covid do not display any symptoms & mobile units across Harrow
have already identified hundreds of people who did not know they were
Covid positive. Book a free rapid test at the Beacon Centre, St
Ann’s Shopping Centre, Harrow Arts Centre, Harrow Civic Centre, or
Shree Swaminarayan Temple Stanmore, open 7 days a week.

Book a test: [link removed]
[[link removed]]

My thoughts continue to be with the loved ones of those who have died,
and with those who have contracted the virus. Again, I can only begin
to imagine the sense of fear and loss families must be feeling. 

I hope readers continue to stay safe, socially distance and regularly
check in on loved ones.  Again, people are being urged to remain
vigilant for any symptoms of Covid-19 If you're feeling unwell with
any of the symptoms of Covid, a new continuous cough, high
temperature, or a loss of or change to taste or smell, it's vital that
you get tested. 

The response to Coronavirus is being directed by Government centrally
working with Public Health England, the Government’s advice
is available here
[[link removed]]. Government
assistance specifically for businesses  is available here
[[link removed]].  

A reminder that if you need to get in touch about the issues covered
here – or anything else – please contact my office on 0207 219
4243 or e-mail me at [email protected]. Please bear
with us, as we have received five times our regular casework
correspondence in recent months.

🚧 ROADMAP CHANGES FROM TOMORROW 🚧

[29/03 changes]

The second phase of the first step in the roadmap out of lockdown
comes into effect tomorrow. These changes include:

🌳 Outdoor gatherings (including in private gardens) of either 6
people (the Rule of 6) or 2 households will be allowed.

🥅 Outdoor sports facilities such as tennis and basketball courts,
and open-air swimming pools, will be allowed to reopen, and people
will be able to take part in formally organised outdoor sports.

🏘️ The ‘stay at home’ rule will end but many restrictions
will remain in place. People should continue to work from home where
they can and minimise the number of journeys they make where possible,
avoiding travel at the busiest times and routes

In just two weeks’ time, or no earlier than APRIL 12TH, we will see
the restrictions ease for non-essential retail and some
hospitality.🛍️

VACCINE DELAYS

This week I have been contacted by many constituents that are
concerned about any potential delays to their second vaccination
dosage. I understand issues with the vaccine supply chain are having
an impact on supplies locally but I am assured by GPs that the system
is adapting to ensure everyone will receive their second doses. Below
are a few common questions and answers on the rollout.

WHEN WILL I HAVE MY SECOND VACCINE BOOKED?

If your GP booked you in for your first vaccine they will contact you
and book you for your second vaccine 11-12 weeks later. GPs are
adapting to changes in the supply chain but insist they will be
contacting residents. Don’t be alarmed, you are still a priority.

If first vaccinations were booked through one of the online booking
systems, then second vaccinations can be booked for 11-12 weeks later
through the national booking system
[[link removed]]. 

 

WHAT HAPPENS IF MORE THAN 12 WEEKS PASSES BEFORE I HAVE MY SECOND
VACCINE?

If for any reason someone misses having their second vaccine 12 weeks
later, please contact your GP or book in through the national booking
system and have it as soon as possible. 

 

WHERE WILL I GO FOR MY SECOND VACCINE?

People will need to return to the same venue that they had their first
vaccine for their second one but we are awaiting further clarity on
vaccination centres earmarked for closure.

 

IF YOU HAVE ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS/QUERIES

I appreciate that there are many questions people might have on the
issue of vaccines, so feel free to send me an e-mail
on [email protected] and I aim to secure a quick
response from the NHS locally.

UNPAID CARERS AND OVER 50S

A reminder that unpaid carers are in priority group 6 for Covid-19
vaccinations. This means those in Harrow who are the primary carer of
someone who is clinically vulnerable are now able to register for a
vaccine appointment using the National Booking Service, or by calling
119. 

To ensure everyone has been offered the opportunity to have the
jab, people aged 50 & over who have not yet been vaccinated and who
would like to, are now able to contact the national booking service
directly to arrange an appointment.  People can go
online 🖥 - www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination or ☎️ call 119.
Visit the nhs.uk website for more info and guidance on how to
book: [link removed]

CLINICALLY EXTREMELY VULNERABLE

From 1 April, if you have been identified as clinically extremely
vulnerable you will no longer be advised to shield. However, you
should continue to take extra precautions to protect yourself. It is
important that you continue to keep the number of social interactions
that you have low and try to limit the amount of time you spend in
settings where you are unable to maintain social distancing. 

If you are in this group, you will previously have received a letter
from the NHS or from your GP telling you this. Contact your local
authority or speak to your GP if you have any concerns.

ASTRAZENECA VACCINE CONCERNS 

A number of constituents have raised some concerns about the
AstraZeneca vaccination following reports about blood clots. Harrow
Council’s Public Health Director, Carole Furlong issued the below
statement to provide reassurance 

_Dear Community Leaders,_

_We’ve all been hearing a lot in the news about the AstraZeneca
vaccine and blood clots._

_A small number of countries temporarily stopped using it due to
concerns about people developing blood clots after having the vaccine.
This was a precautionary measure until the evidence could be
reviewed._

_The UK regulator (the MHRA), the European regulator (EMA), and the
World Health Organisation all concluded that there is no increased
risk of blood clots from the AstraZeneca vaccine._

_In more than 17 million doses given, just 35 people developed blood
clots, which is two cases of clots per million people vaccinated. The
general population gets blood clots at a rate of 1 in every thousand
people: that’s 500 times higher than the rate seen in those who were
vaccinated._

_For women taking the oral contraceptive pill, the risk is six cases
in every thousand people taking the pill – that is six times higher
than the general population risk and 30,000 times higher than that
seen in the AstraZeneca vaccinated group. _

_If you catch Covid-19, your risk of having a blood clot increases
and, for people in intensive care with the virus, the figure is one in
five._

_With fluctuating vaccine supplies, the focus remains on getting the
most vulnerable groups vaccinated first, which is why NHS England has
opened up the national booking service to everyone aged 50 or over.
People due a second dose of their vaccine in April will also receive
it then._

_I recently received the AstraZeneca vaccine. I experienced some minor
side effects for a day or so, but this would not deter me from having
it again or recommending that you have it. You are far more likely to
become infected with Covid-19 than you are to get a blood clot from
having the vaccine. My advice is to take the vaccine._

_ _

_Best wishes,_

_ _

_Carole Furlong_

FINDING SUPPORT

The renewed lockdown measures will have created anxiety and stress for
many. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you are worried about
your mental health: SAMARITANS: 116 123, CALM: 0800 58 58
58, YOUNG MINDS:0800 018 2138, THE MIX (UNDER 25S): 0808 808 4994,
HARROW COUNCIL ALSO ENCOURAGE CALLING THE CORONAVIRUS HOTLINE: 0208
901 2698

HARROW TALKING THERAPIES

If you're anxious, feeling low or stressed about the impact of the
virus on you or loved ones, Harrow Talking Therapies Service is here
to help.

Part of the NHS Improving Access to Psychological Therapy service, it
supports people feeling isolated or worrying about what's going on, as
well those dealing with depression, bereavement and insomnia. 

Available via phone or video
call: [link removed]
[[link removed]]

CORONAVIRUS HOTLINE

The council continues to operate a hotline telephone number during
weekends in order to provide support to those in need of assistance in
Harrow - if you are in need of support due to Covid please give the
hotline a call - 0208 901 2698

GUIDE TO TAX DEBT AND MENTAL HEALTH​

[link removed]
[[link removed]]

Some of the topics in the above guide to tax debt and mental health
will be of support to constituents, in order to:

Understand the impact of debt to mental health - the different kinds
of debt (e.g. tax debt) and how they can be a key source of stress,
depression, and anxiety if not planned and managed properly.

Advice for dealing with debt such as setting up a Debt Management Plan
or an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA), qualifying for a Debt
Relief Order (DRO), or even filing bankruptcy to get some protection
and keep life essentials like pension savings safe from creditors.

What to do if debt problems begin affecting your mental health. This
includes recognizing the symptoms and early warning signs of mental
health problems associated with debt as well as advice on where to
turn to for help and support.

Other useful information and resources, including debt charities and
organisations that are dedicated to helping people conquer their debt
problems.

SUPPORT FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE VICTIMS

Anyone that is experiencing domestic abuse can now go into a Boots or
an independent chemist and seek help. If they say the codeword
‘ANI’ (pronounced Annie), they’ll be taken to a private room
and asked if they want to call 999 or a domestic abuse helpline. ANI
stands for Action Needed Immediately.

📞NATIONAL DOMESTIC ABUSE HELPLINE 0808 2000 247

📞RESPECT HELPLINE FOR MALE VICTIMS OF ABUSE 0808 8010327

FIRM FOUNDATION

Due to COVID - FirmFoundation have suspended drop-in facilities. If
you are homeless and rough sleeping, you can call Streetlink on 0300
5000 914. Ring Harrow Council on 020 8424 1093 – you can also
contact FirmFoundation through the Contact Us page on their website or
call the office on 02084265515.

FRESH HORIZONS CND

The Fresh Horizons CND charity based in Wembley has supported
accommodation available for the single homeless in Harrow during the
ongoing coronavirus restrictions. If you or someone you know is in
need of supported accommodation, Fresh Horizons can be contacted by
telephone at 0300 321 4702 or via email at [email protected]

SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

Harrow Council, Harrow CCG, and Young Harrow Foundation have put
together a joint document
[[link removed]] signposting
residents to a collection of some of the most helpful and trusted
sources of information and guidance for children and young people’s
wellbeing.

For young people (high school and college age), the
document ‘looking after ourselves’ can be found here
[[link removed]] – covering
how to stay healthy, stay connected and learn new skills during this
time.

SUPPORT AND ONLINE RESOURCES FOR THE FAMILY

Harrow Council have collected a range of online resources
[[link removed]]
 for all members of the family to keep entertained while libraries
are closed. You will be able to find resource to help with homework,
eBooks, newspapers and magazines and keeping yourself healthy and
motivated.

Counselling services and mental health support

•       5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing
[[link removed]]
  - A fantastic primer on stress, anxiety and depression from the
NHS. Evidence suggests there are 5 steps you can take to improve your
mental health and wellbeing. Trying these things could help you feel
more positive and able to get the most out of life.

·       Relate Family Mediation 
[[link removed]] - a
service fully geared up to supporting families through the crisis.
Tel: 0300 0032324 or email [email protected].

·       DAWN [[link removed]]  - provide
a counselling service to the local community of Harrow and its
neighbouring boroughs. Tel: 020 8427 6796 or
email: [email protected]

·       Need To Talk [[link removed]]  - offering
1 to 1 counselling supporting their clients or any client by telephone
or webcam. Tel: call/ text on 07427548559 or
email [email protected]

·       Ignite Trust 
[[link removed]]  - During these challenging
and uncertain times, Ignite Trust is working hard to ensure they
continue to provide support to the boroughs most vulnerable and
at-risk young people. Email [email protected].

·        [[link removed]] Every
Mind Matters [[link removed]] - Expert
advice and practical tips to help you look after your mental health
and wellbeing.

HARROW COUNCIL

[HC Covid-19]

The council has a webpage covering their own response to the
coronavirus pandemic, this is regularly being updated and is
available here.  
[[link removed]]

BOOK A FREE TEST ONLINE
[[link removed]] OR
CALL 119

😷 GETTING TESTED AT A LOCAL TESTING CENTRE: 🧪

[Feel Fine? Get Tested.]

FEEL FINE? GET TESTED

 

Rapid test centres are opening across Harrow and have stopped hundreds
of people from spreading Coronavirus so far. 1 IN 3 people with Covid
do not display any symptoms & mobile units across Harrow have already
identified hundreds of people who did not know they were Covid
positive

Book a free rapid test at the BEACON CENTRE, ST ANN’S SHOPPING
CENTRE, HARROW ARTS CENTRE, HARROW CIVIC CENTRE, OR SHREE SWAMINARAYAN
TEMPLE STANMORE, open 7 days a week. 

BOOK A FREE TEST: [link removed]
[[link removed]]

[Get a test]

AS ALWAYS, BOOK A TEST IF:

• You have coronavirus symptoms: 🤒 fever and/or new and
continuous cough and/or loss of or change to sense of taste or smell

• You are an ‘essential worker’ who is not having symptoms

• You have been asked by NHS Test & Trace or Harrow Council to have
a test

BOOK A FREE TEST  [[link removed]] - TESTS MUST
BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE. 

CAN YOU PROVIDE SUPPORT?

LONDON'S COMMUNITY KITCHEN

[LCK]

London's Community Kitchen (based at The Bridge, next to Harrow
Leisure Centre) run a FREE SURPLUS FOOD MARKET open to everyone every
FRIDAY from 3-5PM . This operation continues to serve over 10,000
people across Harrow and London. Please consider donating or getting
involved in any way that you can with this incredible Harrow-wide
response to the coronavirus pandemic:
[link removed]
[[link removed]]

If you’re ever in need of their support, the Community Kitchen want
to help - they won’t ask you for any details, or anything in return,
just turn up and they will provide you with food.

VOLUNTEER:

The Community Kitchen would love any support to keep their operation
running as effectively as possible. Please get in touch with Vivette
Morrow: [email protected]  and once you have had a
Covid test, she will help set you up as a volunteer!

HARROW FOODBANK

[Foodbank]

Harrow Foodbank continues to highlight the impact of in-work poverty
and the number of ways that people find themselves at a crisis point.
Donations are accepted in collection bins after checkout at all major
supermarkets. The Foodbank continue to emphasise the majority of its
users are in work, but many are in need of emergency food provisions.
If you can, please consider providing a monetary donation to the food
bank, they have acquired a van and plan to make deliveries to
vulnerable residents across the borough in 2021 - send an email to
[email protected] or visit Harrow.foodbank.org.uk
[/Harrow.foodbank.org.uk ]  [/Harrow.foodbank.org.uk ]for more.

HELP FROM ME

[GT Zoom Surgeries]

I appreciate that whilst this outbreak of Covid-19 is currently
dominating a lot of our thoughts, other concerns and problems do not
disappear. However, to help reduce the spread of infection, I am
asking members of the public who need to contact my office to do so by
phone or email rather than in person and further, I will continue to
hold surgery appointments exclusively by telephone and Zoom video
conferencing. This is a temporary measure and a sensible precaution to
protect vulnerable people.  Please be assured we continue to offer a
full service of advice and support to members of the public who need
it. 

My office can be contacted on [email protected] or by
telephone on 0207 219 4243 (Monday-Friday). Please bear with us, as we
have received five times our regular casework correspondence in recent
months.

STAY SAFE,

GARETH

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[link removed]