Decision details

Cabinet received a report of the Chief Executive providing an update on the County Council’s response to the Covid-19 crisis.

The Chief Executive and the Director of Public Health highlighted a number of key developments set out in the report relating in particular to the national move to step four, the effectiveness of the vaccination programme and its impact on transmission amongst different age groups. It was noted that those who had not yet been vaccinated were being encouraged to come forward and that PCR testing capacity had been increased.

Members heard that the emergency response structure within the Council had been wound down and all work was now overseen by CMT. Highlighting the £6-7 billion loss to the local economy, it was recognised that the County Council would play a key role in economic recovery. The exceptional work being carried out within Adults Health and Care was noted as was the support that was being provided to schools. The outcomes of the collective wisdom project, in particular plans for a return to the office and taking forward beneficial changes arising from the pandemic were reported.

Cabinet welcomed the report, acknowledging the success of the vaccine, the preparations being made for the return to school in September and the advances in technology that had been made. It was recognised that partnership working would be central to recovery.

The recommendations set out in the report were considered and agreed. A decision record is attached to these minutes.