‘Local Outbreak Engagement Board meets to hear latest COVID developments

The Local Outbreak Engagement Board (LOEB) has met to discuss further steps in preventing the spread of COVID-19 in West Sussex.

The group, which includes representatives from the County Council, District and Borough Councils, NHS and health professionals, heard the latest case numbers and infection rate in West Sussex which was 98.3 per 100,000 in the seven days between 28 October and 3 November.

Amanda Jupp, Chairman of the LOEB and the County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, reiterated the continuing need for residents to follow government guidance as we move through the second lockdown.

She said: “While our rates locally are below the national average, cases have been rising over the last few weeks and there is still widespread community transmission throughout the county.

“It is vitally important that we look after ourselves as well as each other and ensure that we do not become complacent.

“We need to do all we can to slow the spread and keep West Sussex safe so please continue to wash your hands regularly, maintain social distancing and wear face coverings.”

Face coverings should be worn when in public indoor spaces, in line with government guidelines, unless you are exempt due to an age, health or disability reason. People are also reminded that visors are not a replacement and that face coverings should meet the standards on the government website.

The LOEB also received an update on the response to COVID, including the work of the Community Hub. The Hub is open seven days a week from 8 am to 8 pm, to help those who need practical aid and support during the pandemic.

The Hub has received in the region of 55,000 inbound calls and online support request forms, made nearly 40,000 outbound calls and delivered more than 3,000 urgent food parcels across the county.

You can find more information about the Community Hub and request support online at www.westsussex.gov.uk/covid19communityhub or call 033 022 27980 to speak to someone.

The meeting also heard the latest news on the Keep West Sussex Safe campaign, which calls on people to regularly wash their hands, maintain social distancing, wear face coverings when required and to self-isolate immediately and get tested if they develop symptoms which include a new continuous cough, a high temperature and/or a loss of or change in your sense of taste and smell.

Local businesses, organisations, communities and services can download and share campaign material including posters and social media assets to promote these messages and encourage others to keep West Sussex safe and prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Follow us on Facebook @WestSussexCC and Twitter @WSCCNews for updates and sign-up for our COVID-19 newsletter at www.westsussex.gov.uk/coronavirus to receive the latest information about our response to the pandemic. WSCC is also now on Nextdoor, the app designed with communities in mind. Follow the link and join the conversation at https://nextdoor.co.uk/agency-detail/england/west-sussex/west-sussex-council/‘