The Council is bringing forward £687,000 of planned financial support for Cornwall’s cultural and creative sector to help organisations that have been heavily affected by the impact of the COVID-19 virus.

The organisations set to receive funding include local theatres, creative workspaces, performing art organisations, creative business support organisations, Cornish language community groups, museums and galleries and cultural community groups across Cornwall.

Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for culture, economy and planning, Bob Egerton said: “We support many creative and cultural organisations and recognise their important contribution to Cornwall’s economy.  They deliver innovative projects to create jobs and build on the already strong economic success of creative industries which make a significant contribution to the Cornish economy.  They also encourage communities to get involved with what makes Cornwall’s culture and identity so special and distinctive, not just in the UK but globally.”

“During these unprecedented times, we are accelerating a funding package to support those organisations who receive grants from the Council.  We want to help them be in the strongest financial position to be able to continue contributing to our economy and our Cornish culture and creativity when this crisis is over.”

The measures being carried out by the Culture and Creative Economy team include:

• Paying annual revenues grants and reviewing payment schedules for 2020/2021 upfront to give organisations the strongest financial viability possible
• Reviewing and renegotiating what each organisation will deliver to help them adapt their approach and enable activity to get back underway as soon as the situation improves
• Extending our 2018-2022 programme for a further year until 2023 rolling over the existing annual budget to continue to offer support in line with Arts Council England’s commitment to their National Portfolio Organisations.

To ensure appropriate support can be put in place to assist a successful recovery phase for our creative sector, all creative organisations and self-employed individuals are encouraged to take part in Baseline a survey being facilitated by Creative Kernow in partnership with the wider cultural sector including the Culture and Creative Industries team at Cornwall Council.  The survey will collect data about the impact of COVID-19 on the creative and cultural sectors in Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly.

 

Story posted 02 April 2020

Ahead of the Easter holidays Cornwall Council is calling on holiday accommodation providers, including letting agents and online booking platforms, to support the COVID-19 response by following the Government’s closure orders.

The overwhelming majority of holiday accommodation providers such as self- catering businesses, bed and breakfasts, caravan parks, hotels, campsites and holiday homes have shut their doors as a result of the Government ordering all non-essential businesses to stop operating and for everyone to stay at home and avoid unessential travel.

There are a number of exemptions which allow some holiday accommodation businesses to remain open, for example to provide accommodation for key workers, NHS staff and for health and care use.

One such establishment is Carnmarth Hotel in Newquay which has been providing a place to stay for people who have been in hospital, are able to be discharged, but are not ready to go home.

However, Cornwall Council has received complaints alleging that some holiday accommodation providers are still having holiday makers in their premises and operating illegally.

Ahead of the Easter holiday the Council’s enforcement team is now writing to all holiday accommodation owners, letting agents and online booking platforms in Cornwall who are not exempt to the COVID-19 orders to ask for their cooperation in complying with the orders.

The email, which is going out to holiday accommodation providers today (April 2), says: “As you know the Government passed legislation last week which requires certain businesses to close with immediate effect. We appreciate that you may have already acted on the Government’s directions and closed your accommodation, although there are a few exceptions which are covered in this letter. The overwhelming majority of businesses in Cornwall have done exactly that. Indeed, we know that some businesses have been able to provide valuable support to the community by housing vulnerable people and key workers.

“Nevertheless, the Council is receiving complaints that allege that some holiday accommodation businesses are continuing to trade. This is undoubtedly a small minority, but due to the risks involved, we are taking the precaution of writing to you to seek your support in helping to control the COVID 19 outbreak in Cornwall.”

The new legislation requires any person responsible for running a business providing holiday accommodation, whether in a hotel, hostel, bed and breakfast accommodation, holiday apartment, home, cottage or bungalow, campsite, caravan park or boarding house, to cease trading during the emergency period.

The Government’s controls are expected to remain in place until the regulations are reviewed by the Secretary of State and a direction issued to end them.

In its letter to accommodation providers Cornwall Council outlines the new legal requirements and where businesses can get further advice.

It also warns that businesses can face enforcement action if they flout the orders.

Rob Nolan, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for environment and public protection, said: “We are calling on and trust that our holiday accommodation providers in Cornwall will do the right thing and ensure compliance with this requirement which has been introduced to protect the health of our population, NHS and other critical services at this time.

 “We understand that this legislation may have serious financial impacts upon businesses so please read the guidance to understand how you can access the financial help you need.”

Malcolm Bell, Chief Executive of Visit Cornwall, said: “It’s up to all of us to play our part in fighting this virus, as well as obeying the law, and this simply means that not only should all the traditional tourism business be closed to holiday makers, but also people letting out rooms and properties on the online booking platforms that have grown rapidly over the last few years.”

There are a number of exemptions which allow holiday accommodation businesses to remain open, including where they provide services to:

• People who live there permanently or because their primary residence is unavailable.
• Critical workers and non-UK residents who are unable to travel to their country of residence during this period.
• People who are unable to move into a new home due to the current restrictions.
• Homeless and other vulnerable people such as those who cannot safely stay in their home, through arrangements with local authorities and other public bodies.
• Those attending a funeral.
• Hosting of blood donation sessions.

Also, holiday accommodation can remain open for any other purpose requested by the Secretary of State or Local Authority.

A current list of exemptions can be found on the Government's website.

The government has produced guidance on business closures for further reference. However, if you require additional advice please do not hesitate to contact the Council’s Business Support Hub at businessadvice@cornwall.gov.uk. 

If you believe that holiday accommodation might not be complying with the new regulations then please contact Cornwall Council at businessadvice@cornwall.gov.uk.

For anyone seeking refunds due to a holiday booking cancellation Cornwall Council advises:

1. Check the small print on your booking – what does it say about cancellation due to Government intervention?
2. Check the small print on your travel insurance – will your booking be covered?
3. Register your concerns with your holiday provider – are they working to a timetable (ie most imminent bookings first)? What are they suggesting as a solution? But please be patient as businesses have to deal with many pressures at this current time.
4. If you paid for your holiday by credit card you may have additional protection through the credit card provider.

If you do still need further advice or information about cancelling a booking due to Covid-19 please call the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506 or contact Cornwall Council Trading Standards at businesscompliance@cornwall.gov.uk

Cornwall Council will be working with Visit Cornwall when this emergency period is over to support those affected.

 

Story posted on April 2, 2020

 

A call has gone out for any former or retired social workers to help Cornwall’s most vulnerable people during this time of unprecedented demand.

Cornwall Council would like to hear from anyone living in Cornwall who has experience of working in social care - including retired social workers or those who have recently left the profession - to help them maintain the support provided to vulnerable families, children and adults through the Covid-19 pandemic.

Cornwall Council portfolio holder for children, wellbeing and public health, Cllr Sally Hawken said: “Those who take up the call will be deployed in their local area to work that is matched to their experience and skills.

"We need to increase our social care workforce to help and protect Cornwall’s most vulnerable children and families who need our help most at the moment.”

Our call out comes after Social Work England announced plans to contact 8,000 former social workers who have left the register in the last two years.

Cornwall Council would like to extend this invitation to local, ‘fit, proper and suitably experienced professionals’ to bolster local efforts during this emergency.

If it has been more than two years since you have worked in this area, or have worked within social care services as a registered social worker at any point, or you have worked in a supporting role within children’s or adult’s services then there may be alternative positions which you could support with.

Cllr Hawken added: “I’d like to thank our social work teams who are doing a fantastic job of supporting families during this difficult time and also to thank those who come forward to answer this call. There have never been times like these before and we need everyone to play their part to help get us all though this.”

Cornwall Council portfolio holder for adults, Cllr Rob Rotchell said: “We have recently put a call out for more carers in the social care sector and we’re very grateful to all of those who have got in touch so far.

"This campaign widens our search further, so if you have experience of working in social services and think you could help then it is vital that you get in touch and will be very grateful for your support, as will Cornwall’s most vulnerable adults, children and families who need all the help we can provide at this present time.”

To register your interest please email HRdeployment@cornwall.gov.uk who will contact you to gain further details of your qualifications and skill set.

Alternatively, if you would prefer to volunteer then please contact Volunteer Cornwall through their website www.volunteercornwall.org.uk or call on 01872 266988.

 

Story posted on April 1, 2020

Emergency legislation to register deaths by phone has now been implemented.

None of Cornwall’s Register Offices will be open except for existing appointments to register a death. No more face-to-face death registration appointments will be made.

From now until further notice, people will be able to make a request to register a death through an on-line form on the Cornwall Council website or by phoning 0300 1234 181 (Monday to Friday 8:30am to 6:00pm). We will then contact the customer only once we have received all the necessary paperwork, which may be subject to understandable delays with the medical profession.

All other Register Office services are suspended until further notice. Birth registrations are suspended, but please note the change that child benefit can now be claimed prior to registration.

We are contacting marriage/civil partnership couples who have booked with us to discuss their options, but we have over 3,000 bookings so there is a backlog. We are not taking any new bookings for marriages or Civil Partnerships until we have been able to reschedule our displaced bookings. Email us on ceremonies@cornwall.gov.uk but please be aware there will be a delay in our response.

Thank you for noting this restricted service at this busy time.

Cornwall Council, in partnership with the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Leadership Board, has called on the government to increase the speed at which personal protective equipment (PPE) is made available to key workers in Cornwall.

Council leader Julian German said it was vital that key workers and organisations who need PPE to safely carry out their jobs receive it quickly, and asked for further details about how and when that equipment would be distributed.

Cllr German said: “I understand that these are unprecedented times and there is a UK shortage of PPE, but I urge the government to quickly clarify how it intends to distribute this vital equipment – particularly in rural areas like Cornwall.

“Our frontline workers are doing an incredible job caring for residents who are sick or vulnerable, and we desperately need to protect them from falling ill so we can keep Cornwall running and prepare for recovery.

“We as a council have appealed for businesses across Cornwall who may be able to help us with the supply of unused PPE to get in touch, and while we greatly appreciate their support we recognise that this is not a sustainable solution.

“We still require clarification about when the government intends to make new supplies available, and how it will deliver those supplies throughout this difficult period. We will help with those distribution efforts where we can.

“I look forward to hearing more about the government’s plans as soon as possible.”

Many of Cornwall Council’s health and social care partners – in particular social care providers - have identified a lack of PPE as their biggest concern when trying to keep staff and service users safe. PPE is not needed for use at home unless you are a health care worker providing regular personal care to someone who has Covid-19 or is displaying symptoms.

A number of organisations across Cornwall are likely to have PPE that they are not using, and we would ask that you make this available to us now, so we can protect key workers from infection and help reduce the spread of coronavirus.

We currently need:

• Fluid repellent facemasks (IIR)
• Disposable aprons
• Disposable gloves (latex and powder free)
• Eye protection
• Hand sanitiser gel

Cornwall Council Deputy Director of Public Health, Rachel Wigglesworth, said: “I can’t stress enough how important it is that we make sure everyone who needs PPE receives it and makes proper use of it.

“We want to minimise the spread of coronavirus and providing key workers with the protective equipment they need is an important part of that effort.

“We know that there are issues across the country with the supply of PPE, so we’re calling on businesses here in Cornwall that may have unused stock to get in touch and let us know, so we can get it to the people who need it most.”

 Businesses or organisations that can provide PPE are asked to email the council at covid19@cornwall.gov.uk. Please get in touch via this email address and do not drop any supplies off at County Hall, or any other council building.

Posted on 30 March, 2020.

 

Cornwall Council has acquired around 120 acres of land at Langarth - marking a major milestone in delivering the ambitious Garden Village project.

The transfer of land brings the council a step closer to its goal of providing a new community with local character, strong services and integrated and accessible transport and green spaces.

Plans for providing up to 3,500 homes, key infrastructure such as a new primary school, and the extension to the Truro Park and Ride and the new Northern Access Road (NAR) can now move ahead.

The council can also begin the process of transferring the land to its Stadium for Cornwall partners, delivering a vital next step in this long-awaited project.

35% of the new homes at Langarth will be affordable, with homes for older people and those with special requirements.  There will also be homes for key workers, students, and good quality council-owned market rented homes.

A major new transport link in Truro, the NAR (Northern Access Road) will connect all the developments on the Langarth site and provide a route from the Garden village to the Royal Cornwall Hospital at Treliske avoiding the A390.

It will also prioritise cycling and walking along its entire length. The council will ensure that public transport is provided at the earliest possible stage.

The council is also working with Cormac, the master planning team and other partners to create an effective transport strategy which provides better cycle, bus and walking connections to provide a realistic and practical alternative to car use for accessing the city centre and other services.

This includes cycleways and paths that allow easy access to everywhere people want to go, as well as cycle parking and storage, cycle training programmes, car clubs and an extension to the park and ride site.

An application for outline planning permission for the Langarth scheme, which includes the construction of the NAR, is due to be submitted in early summer.

Subject to all the necessary approvals and consents being secured, work is anticipated to start on constructing the new road during 2021 and be completed by Spring 2024.

 

Posted on March 30, 2020

Cornwall Council and Volunteer Cornwall have mobilised staff and local communities to make sure Cornwall’s most vulnerable residents receive the food and medication they need during the coronavirus outbreak.

People with serious medical conditions that make them more vulnerable to coronavirus were asked to register their need for help with the government.

Cornwall Council has now received information about them and has worked quickly to top-up the emergency supplies allocated to Cornwall by government.

Working closely with local suppliers, this means everyone who has asked for help will receive a food parcel today (March 29).

When everyone receives their delivery, they will also be given a phone number so that they can provide the council with more information on things like their dietary requirements and their pharmaceutical needs, allowing volunteers from Volunteer Cornwall to make sure they have the right food and medication to stay safe and well.

Cornwall Council Leader, Cllr Julian German said: “What’s important here is that those people who have been made extremely isolated in this emergency situation are made known to us so that we can ensure they have their nutrition and health needs met immediately.  

“This is the start of a new initiative and I know the Government is working hard to ensure future deliveries provide enough supplies for the most vulnerable people in Cornwall.  I am grateful to our fantastic Cornish suppliers who rallied round over the weekend, so that Cornwall Council could supplement the Government’s first delivery, and deliver a food parcel to everyone in Cornwall who told the Government they have no support.”

Emma Rowse, Chair of Volunteer Cornwall said: “Our staff and local volunteers are on hand and ready to help, and we are ideally placed to bring those people together that need help, with those who able to provide it.

“We have been overwhelmed with the response we have had already from local communities, with over 2,000 people coming forward as well as 220 community groups. However, if there is anyone else who is still able to assist then please do not hesitate to get in touch with us so that we can ensure that everyone who needs help and support in this time of emergency gets it. Also if you know of someone who needs help let us know”.

Cllr German added: “I’d like to pass on my grateful thanks to all of those involved in making sure people receive help, including those local suppliers, Bodmin Asda, Bookers Redruth, Waitrose Truro, the Local Resilience Forum, and the Red Cross who have gone above and beyond. And not forgetting the large number of council staff who have worked around the clock to carry out this vital piece of work.

“I’d also like to thank Volunteer Cornwall who have been by our sides throughout this situation so far and have not hesitated to play their part in bringing Cornwall together to help those most in need.”

Anyone able to help is urged to visit Volunteer Cornwall’s website, or call 01872 266988 for more information and to apply to help or if you know someone who needs assistance.

Story posted on 29 March

Cornwall Council has suspended car park charges until the end of April to support essential workers during the pandemic.

These changes will come into effect from midnight tonight (March 27) and will be reviewed on a monthly basis.

Councillor Geoff Brown, portfolio holder for transport, said: “We need residents to stay at home and stay safe, now is not the time for anyone to worry about parking charges and issues associated with coin handling.

"We also want to make it as easy as possible for essential workers to get to and from work and removing parking charges is one way in which we can support them during this critical time.

“It is really important, however, that people always remember to park considerately and continue to follow government guidance about avoiding any unnecessary travel.”

Anyone with questions about the new parking arrangements should email the Council’s Parking Services team in the first instance parking@cornwall.gov.uk.

The team will aim to respond within 10 working days. If you don’t have access to email or the Internet please call 0300 1234 222.

 

Posted on 27 March 2020

Cornwall’s hotel industry will soon be joining Cornwall Council in helping to reduce the impact of coronavirus by providing a place to stay for people who have been in hospital, are able to be discharged, but are not ready to go home.

Cornwall Council’s adult social care team has been working on this scheme that will help free up 120 hospital beds while ensuring those people still get the care and support they need.

Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for adults Rob Rotchell said: “We have been working very hard to find ways in which we can support people to live safely at home following their stay in hospital, and, in the current climate, with such a strain on our resources this has proved a particular challenge. We have just launched a massive recruitment campaign to enlist the help of people across Cornwall for the care sector which will also help to relieve the pressure on the health and care system.

“The people who will be using this resource have been in hospital with varying conditions not related to Coronavirus and now no longer require hospital care so this a great solution for them, keeping them well and nearer to being back into their own home.

“Fully trained care workers, deployed from Corcare, part of Corserv, will make sure that everyone in the hotels are receiving the support they need, as well as putting in all of the measures in place to get them back home as soon as they can. People will be transported safely from the hospital and then met by a member of the care and support team to settle them into their room and answer any questions. Social distancing requirements will be strictly followed at all times to help keep people safe.”

The first hotel to open will be the independent, and family-owned, Carnmarth Hotel in Newquay and the owner, Will Hatfield, said: “We are working hard behind the scenes to ensure that staff are trained and equipped to support people. I’m really pleased and very proud that we are able to help Cornwall and support the health and care system at this time of emergency”.

Conversations are underway with other hotels in Cornwall who are similarly wanting to show their support and replicate these services.  It is thought they should all be in operation within the next month.

This is a short-term arrangement, expected to be in place for a period of up to 12 weeks. During this time the hotels will not be open to the general public.

Story posted on 27 March

People who need care and support in Cornwall are calling on everyone who can, to urgently step up and apply for a role in Cornwall’s care sector.

The call for more carers comes as Cornwall faces an unprecedented demand for care and support during the Coronavirus emergency.

Cornwall Council is mobilising as many workers as it can spare, as well as leading the recruitment campaign, working closely with its arms-length company, Corserv, Volunteer Cornwall , Cornwall Adult Health and Social Care Learning Partnership (CAHSC) and other partners to ensure that the people who need help don’t miss out on vital care.

Cornwall Council portfolio holder for adults, Cllr Rob Rotchell said: “This recruitment campaign comes as Cornwall steps up its effort to address the strain that Coronavirus is putting on its residents.

“As the Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust has started to prepare for the demand on its resources, the council, and the whole of Cornwall’s population has a part to play in supporting them. We are currently in the process of increasing the capacity of beds in our care sector to make sure that people are able to leave hospital much quicker. We are also looking at how we can redirect some of our current staff into these vital roles to make sure the most vulnerable in our society are cared for. Across the Corserv Group, 30 employees have already redeployed to various areas to support the efforts, and more people will be joining them next week.

“We now need as many people in Cornwall as possible to think about how they can help. A large number of people have already registered their interest and availability to help with Volunteer Cornwall, which is great to see, and we are working closely with them to see how many of those people could help in the care sector, with many paid roles available. We are now asking any of you who are currently unemployed or have time to spare to think about whether you could help people in their time of need. There is also a strong message for anyone who has worked in care before, now is the time to re-join. We need you.”

Andy Brelsford from Volunteer Cornwall said: “It’s been an amazing response from Cornwall so far with over 2000 people already getting in touch in the last few weeks, all wanting to help people in their community. Being able to signpost some of these people to paid employment is also a bonus when so many people are facing sudden unemployment.”

Cllr Rotchell added: “With Cornwall’s ‘super-ageing’ population there was already a considerable shortage of carers to meet the demand needed, and it’s now more important than ever that get these roles filled as soon as possible so that no one in Cornwall is left alone and uncared for.

“I’d also like to pass on my heartfelt, grateful thanks to the carers already going above and beyond by continuing to help those who can’t look after themselves at the moment. They are providing a vital service and their efforts in this current crisis will be remembered by us all for the years to come. I’d also like to thank CAHSC for all of their hard work in supporting this programme of work.”

CAHSC have led work with providers to develop a comprehensive induction programme to ensure that all those who are recruited have the essential skills and knowledge required for the role and there are plenty of opportunities for this to become a permanent role in the future.

If you can help then please visit the Proud to Care Cornwall website and apply as soon as possible.

If you would like to help but only in a volunteer capacity then please visit the Volunteer Cornwall website 

Story posted on 27 March 

Staff at Cornwall Council are working flat out with the community and voluntary sector to help the residents of Cornwall who are most vulnerable during this unprecedented crisis.

As a priority, our staff are working with central Government and local partners so that local community hubs are ready to respond where people in Cornwall choose to request the help they need through central Government. We will continue to update our communities as our plans are firmed up.

As the Coronavirus pandemic develops, we have seen huge demands placed on crisis groups across Cornwall – the foodbanks, the homeless shelters and the soup kitchens.

To help ensure these groups can continue to support vulnerable residents, Cornwall Council has contributed £100,000 to Cornwall Community Foundation’s (CCF) Cornwall Coronavirus Emergency Appeal.

The CCF has taken a lead role in providing crisis support, offering small grants of £500 - £3,000 to organisations in Cornwall, to cover the additional costs of supporting people during the coronavirus crisis.

Members of the public can also donate to the emergency appeal by visiting https://www.cornwallcommunityfoundation.com/donate-to-cornwall-emergency-coronavirus-appeal/

Cornwall Council leader Julian German said: “We will do whatever we can joining forces with our partners across Cornwall to protect our most vulnerable residents during this unprecedented time. The work of these crisis groups is always vital, but never more so than right now and I want to thank each and every volunteer involved in this amazing work.

“They are stretched by the demands being placed on them, alongside the unique challenges posed by the pandemic, such as the difficulty in getting hold of food.

“We are calling on central Government to direct supermarkets to introduce priority purchasing arrangements for foodbanks, so that we can make sure our most vulnerable residents are not going hungry in this crisis.”

“Right now, anyone in Cornwall who needs help with shopping, collecting medicines or other practical help and support can request a volunteer by ringing 01872 265300 or emailing requestforhelp@volunteercornwall.org.uk.

“Arrangements are in place with local pharmacies to include prescription collection as part of this service. Volunteer Cornwall have over 1,500 individuals and 160 community groups registered to provide support – and they will always follow up with the individual to ensure the volunteering has happened and their needs were met.

“We have made arrangements  with the police so that volunteers registered with Volunteer Cornwall can easily identify themselves as carrying out essential activity.”

Jane Hartley DL, Chairman of the CCF said: “The Coronavirus outbreak is putting immense pressure on foodbanks and other small, frontline community groups supporting people most in need in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Demand is increasing as a result of redundancies and isolation from usual support networks.

“At the same time, food donations have reduced due to stockpiling and local charities cannot get out in their communities to do their usual fund raising. We are very grateful to Cornwall Council for their quick response to this unprecedented crisis and for donating £100,000 to support the vital work of grassroots organisations.”

Cornwall Council is aware that there is increasing concern, due to the guidance on Covid-19, about members of the community who are homeless or threatened with homelessness.

The Council commissions Cornwall Housing Limited to deliver housing options services, and this continues to operate as an essential service.

Keeping residents safe is our number one priority. If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness, you should contact Cornwall Housing Limited on 0300 1234 161 and ask for the Prevention & Engagement team. You can also find useful information and advice on their website at www.cornwallhousing.org.uk

If you are concerned about someone who is sleeping rough, you should report this through Streetlink by visiting www.streetlink.org.uk or by phoning them on 0300 500 0914. Streetlink will then inform our Outreach Team who can make contact with the person and offer them help and support to find accommodation.

The Government has confirmed that hotels, B&Bs, hostels and holiday parks who are providing accommodation to support people who are homeless through arrangements with the local authority or other public bodies should remain open to facilitate these arrangements. If you are able to offer accommodation to the local authority to support their Covid-19 response, please email the details to covid19@cornwall.gov.uk.

 

Posted on 26 March 2020

Usually Lifeguard cover for many of Cornwall’s beaches begins from this Saturday onwards marking the start of the Easter Holidays.

But this year in response to the Covid 19 outbreak the RNLI is having to withdraw Lifeguard services.

Lifeguards were due to be deployed across Cornish beaches as of this weekend 28 March, but for the time being their familiar flags marking safe bathing areas, warning flags showing unsafe conditions, and their reassuring Lifeguards in vehicles and lookouts, will be missing.

Cornwall Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Protection, Rob Nolan, says: “Like the advice around Covid itself, this means extra vigilance by the public in order to remain safe.”

“Our beaches are open, though you must not make unnecessary journeys to them, or congregate on them. But be aware that there will no longer be Lifeguards keeping an eagle eye out for people in danger or in need of rescue. Social distancing also means that people will be dispersed, and in general there will be fewer people around to spot anyone who needs help. Inevitably some experienced swimmers and surfers may still want to go into the sea. Leisure centres are also closed, so swimming pools will not be offering a safer alternative.”

“I urge beach users and walkers, and in particular parents, to be extra vigilant while there are no Lifeguards in place. Parents may be in charge of only one member of their household. We must follow the Government’s anti-virus guidelines, but if we choose to use the beaches for our daily exercise we all have to take responsibility for our own safety in the water. Heed warning signs advising of local hazards, check tide times to avoid being cut off, and look at weather conditions before setting out into, or onto, the sea.”

It is important to note that the RNLI's Lifeboat stations remain on service. The RNLI says it is working towards providing a peak summer season service, if the situation with Covid 19 at that time allows it.

But for now, it falls to every individual to use the beaches and the sea as safely as possible.

Cornwall Council’s Countryside Services team is in regular contact with the RNLI and will notify everyone as soon as they have a clear indication of Lifeguard services being resumed.

Following on from our commitment to clarify with government what help would be available for struggling businesses, Cornwall Council has now received further information about how the schemes for Local Authority Business Rate Grants to Businesses will be made available.

The Council expects to receive the grant funding from government in early April, at which time it will be made available immediately to struggling businesses. There is no need to apply or to contact the Council.

Whilst the details of the scheme are still being finalised, the Council is committed to getting advice and information to all businesses as soon as possible and is able to advise businesses that:

The Small Business Grant Fund (SBGF) will be available for all businesses in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR) or Rural Rate Relief (RRR). Businesses will receive £10,000. There are approx. 19,500 Cornish businesses in this category.

The Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant (RHLG) will be available to those businesses in receipt of the Expanded Retail Discount (there are 5,600 Cornish businesses in this category) as follows:

- Rateable value up to and including £15,000 will receive a grant of £10,000
- Rateable value over £15,000 to £51,000 will receive a grant of £25,000
- Businesses with a rateable value over £51,000 are not eligible

Exclusions will include private stables, beach huts, moorings etc, car parks and parking spaces and businesses who were in liquidation as of 11th March. It should be noted that State Aid Limitations apply.

Businesses will NOT need to apply for the grants of £10,000 or £25,000. They will be contacted shortly in order for Cornwall Council to check or obtain bank details. Once the Council has these correct details, payments will be sent to the registered Business Rate payer in April. There is no need to contact the Council. We are committed to updating businesses further when we can.

Cornwall Council’s Leader Julian German said: “We are committed to helping our residents and businesses through this crisis. We promised to seek urgent clarification about these schemes and will update businesses in Cornwall as more information becomes available.”

The information was welcomed by Mark Duddridge, chair of the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership, who said: “Businesses are desperate for support and will welcome the pledge by Cornwall Council to disperse these funds as soon as they are available. We are currently collecting data about the impact of coronavirus on the business community and are asking businesses to fill out a short survey here so that we can feed back information to Government to help shape future support.”

The Council is working closely with its partners and business organisations to help Cornish businesses affected by the pandemic. Please check our website for further updates or you can visit the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Growth Hub which is constantly updated with the latest coronavirus business support information.

 

Story posted on March 25, 2020

We are deeply saddened to learn of the fifth death in Cornwall relating to Coronavirus.

The Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust has confirmed the patient, who had been cared for at Royal Cornwall Hospital, and had tested positive for COVID-19, has died.

The patient was in their 60s and had underlying health conditions.

Their family has been informed about the cause of death and are following national guidance.

Our thoughts go out to their family and friends at this difficult time.

We are continuing to work closely with our health colleagues to support their efforts to manage Coronavirus.

We urge everyone to follow the Government’s advice on staying at home, especially for our older residents and people with underlying health conditions.

Please see www.gov.uk/coronavirus for all latest advice.

 

Story posted on 22 March, 2020

The Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust has confirmed that four patients who had been cared for at Royal Cornwall Hospital, and had tested positive for COVID-19, have died this week.

The patients were all over 70 and had underlying health conditions. 

The RCHT says their families have been informed about the cause of death and are following national guidance.

Julian German, Leader of Cornwall Council, said: “We are deeply saddened to note the first deaths in Cornwall relating to Coronavirus. Our thoughts go out to their families and friends at this incredibly difficult time.  

“I want to reassure residents across Cornwall that we are working closely with our health colleagues to support their efforts to manage Coronavirus.  

“It is vital that we stay united as a community and look out for each other – especially older residents and people with underlying health conditions – and that we follow the Government’s advice on social distancing and avoiding non-essential travel. 

“Everyone at the council is working extremely hard to make sure the core frontline services that residents rely on the most can keep running while this situation is ongoing. 

“I’d also like to pay tribute to those working in health and other front-line services. They are doing a remarkable job in difficult circumstances.” 

Steve Brown, Deputy Director of Public Health at Cornwall Council, said: “My sincere condolences are with the families, friends and loved ones at this sad time.  

“We are working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Cornwall are protected. Everyone has a role to play in reducing the risk of infection.

“The best action we can all take to prevent spread of the virus is to follow the Government’s advice on social distancing, avoiding non-essential travel and following the NHS advice. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time, and if you cough or sneeze cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or cough into your elbow. If you use a tissue throw it away immediately – catch it, bin it, kill it.  

“Clean down surfaces regularly and practice good hand hygiene when you arrive home, get to work, and before you eat and drink.”  

The Government has issued guidance to reduce the spread of infection which requires anyone who has symptoms of a coronavirus infection – a new continuous cough and/or a high temperature (37.8 degrees centigrade or higher) – to stay at home for seven days from the point that their symptoms first started.   

This will help protect others in the community while the individual is infectious. You do not need to call NHS 111 to go into self-isolation. If your symptoms worsen during home isolation or are no better after seven days, visit NHS 111 online. If you have no internet access, call NHS 111. For a medical emergency dial 999.   

The latest government advice is available at www.gov.uk/coronavirus

 

Story posted on 21 March, 2020

With regret, we are temporarily closing Kresen Kernow, Cornwall’s archive centre and the home of Cornwall Council’s Archives and Cornish Studies Service, due to the ongoing situation with the Covid-19 virus.

The health of our visitors, volunteers and staff is of the highest importance to us so, in line with current advice, we will be closed for public visits from Friday 20 March until further notice.

Where possible our staff will continue to work on-site to care for our archive collections and carry out our enquiry, document copy and research services.

We will also still be providing access for key public services such as the coroners and police.

Although we have suspended our public activity programme for the immediate future, we are looking forward to welcoming schools and groups back later in the year, and continuing to deliver our successful range of exhibitions and events.

We have also temporarily suspended our on-site volunteer and work experience programme, and will restart both of these as soon as we are able.

Our catalogue, information about our collections, and online exhibitions are still available to everyone on our website at www.kresenkernow.org.

We will also be using our social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @kresenkernow) to continue to share inspiring and engaging content from 850 years of Cornwall’s archive history.

We will contact anyone who has pre-ordered documents for a research visit in the upcoming months.

Thank you all for your patience and understanding at this difficult time and please do keep an eye on our website and social media for updates and information.

 

Published on March 20, 2020

Cornwall prides itself on being an open and welcoming place, but during these unprecedented times we ask that anyone planning a trip to Cornwall consider deferring their visit and avoid all but essential travel.

There are three urgent requests of government:

1. That an announcement is made today that will ensure that the tens of thousands of workers in the sector, including those in the supply chain, will have a fair wage support mechanism, so that they are supported through this crisis.

2. The Government provides clarity to businesses, that if a business has closed, or is thinking of closing, that they will gain full access to the financial packages and support available. Many businesses are concerned that if they voluntarily close they will firstly void any insurance that they may have, and secondly make themselves ineligible for Government financial support.

3. Finally, clarity on the definition of non-essential travel is required. At present non-essential travel appears to focus purely on the use of public transport. It does not provide any clarity about whether going for a short break or a holiday in the UK is deemed to be non-essential travel. Given the fast escalating situation, Visit Cornwall believes that a holiday or short break should be deemed as non-essential travel. This would avoid the confusion that currently exists and mean that customers’ personal travel insurance should reimburse visitors who choose to cancel rather than postpone their holiday.

As the restrictions put in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus begin to be implemented across the country we are aware of the huge impact this is having on the tourism and hospitality sector in Cornwall. We are already seeing businesses close and redundancies made.

However, we are also aware that additional visitors to Cornwall at this time will potentially put extra pressure on public services, including the NHS.

Visit Cornwall has been considering the scenarios for several weeks, but it is now clearer how this will impact on the UK and Cornwall significantly in the next three to six months.

Our advice is for visitors to plan to come to Cornwall later in the year when more of our facilities are open for business, trading normally, and when visitors will get the high-quality experience they associate with coming to Cornwall.

We urge anyone considering travelling to Cornwall in the coming days and weeks to think carefully about the implications of being removed from your normal social network during the coronavirus period, the risk of not being able to travel back home as planned, to be aware that supermarkets are experiencing the same pressures here as elsewhere, and consider the added pressure on public services in a rural area which this travel may cause.

We urge people to delay their visit to Cornwall to a later stage. This will also reassure our communities that we are doing everything possible to contain the spread of Coronavirus over the next few weeks. 

Welcoming visitors back to Cornwall will be key to our economic recovery.

But Government needs to act in order to support tourism businesses through this difficult time.

Cornwall Council, Visit Cornwall and the Local Enterprise Partnership will continue to work in partnership to support the sector and our communities through this difficult period.

 

Posted on March 20, 2020

As a consequence of the Covid-19 virus, the Returning Officer has taken the decision to suspend scheduled polls due to take place in Cornwall between now and 7 May 2020.

This includes the Parish Council by-election in the Stratton Ward of Bude Town Council, due to be held on Thursday, 19 March 2020.

New national guidance issued for Returning Officers on the evening of 18 March confirmed that it would be both reasonable and consistent with the national position for a Returning Officer to suspend any poll scheduled within this period, including those due to take place imminently.

The elections will take place on a new date to be announced.

This decision has been taken with due regard to ensure fair participation in our democracy and the protection of the public and elections staff during this time.

 

Story posted on 18 March 2020

Residents are being asked for their views and suggestions on new planning rules to help Cornwall tackle the climate emergency. 

The Climate Change Development Plan Document, or DPD, will outline Cornwall Council’s vision to protect the environment by introducing new planning policies and strengthening existing rules to support Cornwall Council’s ambitious aim to become carbon neutral by 2030. 

At a meeting at Lys Kernow today (March 18) Cabinet members approved initial plans for public consultation on the new DPD to start at the end of this month.  

Due to the social distancing requirements introduced in response to the Coronavirus the Council will be consulting on the plans online and will not be holding exhibitions or face to face events at this point. Residents and other stakeholders will be able to view the proposals and to give their views by email and through webcasts. Further details on the webcasts will follow.

Climate Change DPD policies are being considered to support:   

Green energy –This could mean allocating areas for renewable energy, safeguarding renewable energy sources, and promoting energy storage solutions to ensure renewable power generated in Cornwall can be used here.  

Enhancing the environment – Using nature to reduce Cornwall’s carbon footprint, protecting and increasing biodiversity and planting more trees and hedges, for example through the 8,000-hectare Forest for Cornwall programme.  

More efficient housing – Building homes with alternative, renewable energy sources, improving building standards and retrofitting Cornwall Council housing to make homes warmer and greener. 

Greener travel – Looking at ways to reduce the need to travel by designing places that encourage walking and cycling. 

Community resilience – Increasing resilience to coastal change and flooding, making sure buildings are in safe locations and creating natural flood management systems. 

Like the Local Plan, the new Climate Change DPD would become a statutory planning document supporting and strengthening the policies that have already been adopted, to protect the environment. 

All suggestions and feedback received during the consultation will be considered but not all ideas can be included in planning policy.  

There will be further chances to comment this year before the final policies are decided and submitted to Government for inspection next year.  

Councillor Bob Egerton, Cornwall’s Cabinet Member for culture, economy and planning, said: “Cornwall already has a Local Plan in place with a number of adopted policies that are aimed at addressing climate change.   

“The DPD that we are developing will help us to be more ambitious, it will create new policies and help strengthen existing ones that address specific issues affecting Cornwall.  The legislation that supports the DPD will give additional powers to help protect our environment. 

“The DPD is at an early scoping stage and while evidence is being gathered from experts and stakeholders on a wide range of themes from building to natural climate solutions, it’s important that you tell us what you think. 

“At the end of March we will start an initial period of consultation, when we’ll ask for your thoughts around the issues you believe we should concentrate on and your suggestions on how to address the major causes of climate change.” 

Councillor Edwina Hannaford, Cornwall’s cabinet member for climate change and neighbourhoods, said: “Cornwall’s aim to become carbon neutral by 2030 needs a combined effort and no single measure will provide the solutions we need.  

“As part of a range of measures we are looking at to address the climate emergency, my colleagues in planning have a major part to play.” 

To give views on the Climate Change DPD or for further information visit Cornwall Council’s website or email climatechange.dpd@cornwall.gov.uk 

 

Story posted March 18, 2020