The coronavirus outbreak has seriously impacted the United Kingdom and, like everywhere else in the country, has affected North East Derbyshire, too.
Whilst most people who contract coronavirus will suffer only mild symptoms for a temporary period, we know it more affects some people more seriously and, in a small number of cases, can have extremely serious consequences, including death.
Recent months have not been easy and thank you to everyone who has followed the Government advice to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives. Since the Autumn, the virus has come back again into our communities and, unfortunately, North East Derbyshire and Chesterfield are no exception to this. We have had to endure successive restrictions between September and the end of 2020, each time trying to reflect the challenge at the time and the circumstances on the ground.
From 31st December, North East Derbyshire and Chesterfield will be placed in tier 4 of local restrictions. This means that residents must stay at home unless they have a reason to leave (work, volunteering, medical needs, exercise, support bubble, childcare, education etc.). All retail other than essential retail will have to close on a temporary basis.
A further summary can be found here: www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-4-stay-at-home
Regular, updated guidance on coronavirus can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus. This includes information about what to do if you have symptoms, all of the Government support that has come forward and if guidance if you have specific issues you need to find out more about.
Locally, there is a huge amount of work happening, coordinated by our local Councils and volunteers, to ensure that everyone who needs help gets it. Should you have any issues and need to self-isolate, please see Derbyshire County Council's website (www.derbyshire.gov.uk) and North East Derbyshire (www.ne-derbyshire.gov.uk) for assistance.
Weekly infection rates for North East Derbyshire and Chesterfield are published by the Government. I will place that information on my Facebook page on a regular basis: www.facebook.com/lee4ned.
And, if you have any questions, issues or difficulties, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us on 439222 or lee.rowley.mp@parliament.uk and we will try our best to help. Please stay safe.