We understand that our residents and customers may have concerns about the coronavirus pandemic. We would like to reassure you that we are working with the government, NHS, other councils, partners and community groups to keep people safe.
You can:
National lockdown in place
A third national lockdown began at 12.01am on 5 January. It applies until further notice.
This means that:
- you have to stay at home, except for specific purposes
- you can’t gather with people you don’t live with, except in exceptional circumstances
- certain businesses and venues in the non-essential retail, leisure, entertainment and personal care industries will have to close
- pubs, bars and restaurants must close too, but can provide non-alcoholic takeaways
- you should work from home if possible
In addition, if you are clinically extremely vulnerable, you follow the shielding guidance.
You can find:
Prevent coronavirus spreading
Everyone must help stop the spread of coronavirus.
The steps we can take to help control the virus are:
- stay at home as much as possible
- keep your distance from people not in your household if you go out (two metres apart where possible)
- wash your hands regularly
- wear a mask where required
If you or anyone in your household has symptoms, do not leave home and immediately get a test. People with symptoms can only leave home to get the test.
Where social distancing is not possible, you should wear a face covering. If you are unable to wear a face covering, you can download an exemption card.
Test and Trace
You can find more information about getting tested for covid-19.
You can download the NHS Covid-19 app on the Apple Store or Google Play.
If you have been contacted by NHS Test and Trace and have been told to self-isolate, you may be entitled to a self-isolation payment.
Mass testing
You can read more about getting tested if you don't have symptoms and can't work from home.
Vaccine rollout
You can find out the latest about the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine from the Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT).
If you are isolated and in need of support, you can contact the Chelmsford Centre Supporting Voluntary Action (CVS).
Their Community Response Hub can offer practical support, such as food shopping assistance or collecting prescriptions, for those without friends, neighbours or family to help. The helpline number is 01245 280731 and the email address is community@chelmsfordcvs.org.uk.
You can also view Essex County Council's coronavirus support for residents for advice, support and organisations you can contact if you need other help.
Report a breach
If you are concerned that a person or business is not following the law regarding coronavirus restrictions, you can report a breach to Essex Police.
Protect yourself against coronavirus-related scams
There are numerous bogus emails and text messages circulating, so find out how to spot them and protect yourself from fraud.
Privacy notice
We have published a new privacy notice during the coronavirus outbreak.
Essex County Council services
Schools
We are not responsible for schools and education, as this comes under the remit of Essex County Council.
Household recycling centres
We are not responsible for household recycling centres household recycling centres, as this comes under the remit of Essex County Council.