With the easing of lockdown and as we move our focus to the next phase of management of the COVID-19 epidemic, a locally led system to prevent and reduce transmission of the virus is critical.
The Dudley local outbreak control plan will build on the strong relationships with key partners and the approach already in place for tackling situations and outbreaks locally during the pandemic including work across our care homes.
The aim of this plan is to reduce the spread of the virus, to prevent and minimise the impact of a potential second wave, whilst reducing the direct and indirect health, social and economic consequences. It details how we identify early and manage local outbreaks and how we will support high risk locations and vulnerable communities.
Council powers to impose restrictions under coronavirus regulations
The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (No.3) Regulations 2020 came into force on Saturday 18 July. The new regulations give local and national government additional powers to stop local transmission of the virus. These will allow them to restrict local public gatherings and events, and close local businesses premises and outdoor spaces.
The Department of Health and Social Care has published statutory guidance for councils in England on:
• what the new regulations allow them to do and how they should exercise those powers
• how those powers should be enforced
• guidance for those affected by local authority directions
