Message from the Leader of Harrow Council, Immediate action required as London moves to High level Covid alert

Cases of covid continue to rise rapidly across London, as well as in Harrow where they have nearly doubled in the past couple of weeks. Because of this London will move to tier 2 lockdown tomorrow.

I understand this is a difficult and worrying time for our communities, residents and businesses but these new restrictions are essential to keep Harrow safe. If we are to slow the spread of this deadly virus we must all take action now.

The move to tier 2 now means more restrictions around social distancing in London and Harrow to control the spread and save lives:

• We must not meet socially with friends and family indoors in any setting unless we live with them or have formed a support bubble with them. This includes private homes, and any other indoor venues such as pubs and restaurants.

The new restrictions come into place from midnight tomorrow (Friday 16 October) across the whole of London - however I urge you all to start following the guidance now.

The following also remain in place:

• Nurseries, schools, colleges and universities will stay open.
• Work from home, if you can. If you cannot work from home, you should continue to attend your place of work. Only use public transport when necessary and walk or cycle where you can.
• Pubs, bars and restaurants continue to close at 10pm and operate table-service only, except for takeaways.
• Informal childcare arrangements may continue.

It is essential that we all follow the hands, face, space mantra:

• Wash your hands, or use hand sanitiser, regularly and for at least 20 seconds
• Cover your face, when using public transport or in busy spaces like high streets or shops where it may be more difficult to keep your distance
• Keep a safe distance from anyone not in your household or support bubble.

If you develop symptoms of the virus, please immediately self-isolate – people who fail to self-isolate will face a fine of up to £10,000.

If you have one of the three symptoms book a free test online or call 119.

You can now get tested at a local testing centre:

• South Harrow walk-through testing centre at Brigade Close Car Park, HA2 0LQ (opposite South Harrow Police Station) - open daily 8am to 8pm. No parking available at this site.
• Edgware testing centre at Watling Community Centre, Orange Hill Road, HA8 0TR - open daily 8am to 8pm.
• Mobile testing site (cars only) on selected days, 10.30am to 3.30pm at Harrow Civic Centre and Northwick Park Hospital.

Tests must be booked in advance. Only book a test if you have symptoms.

As the Council we stand together with the rest of London in the fight against Covid-19 - I am working with London Council Leaders, the Mayor of London and the Government to balance the public health, economic and social impacts of this virus. London Councils and the Mayor are asking the Government for economic support for London’s businesses to ensure they survive this pandemic.

If you are struggling financially or with your well-being, support is available.

None of us want to stop seeing our family and friends, but by following the Public Health rules, helping each other and working together we can get through this, just as we did during the lockdown earlier this year. We must all play our part to avoid further restrictions and keep Harrow safe.

Please stay safe and take all necessary precautions to do so.

Graham Henson, Leader of Harrow Council