Emergancy Notices - Liverpool City Region - Merseyside

AS This page is to place quick update important notices that are being sent to us from Government and other organisations over the Coronavirus Emergency affecting our country (UK)... Please remember that the information changes quickly, so always check to see what time and when the last post was made. We will update as and when we can.... Users of our Formby Reporter's Free Email Service will get most updates 1st and then they will be added on here as soon as we can...

FROM Friday, 20 March 2020, in the UK, Schools, Colleges, and Nurseries are being shut until, further notice as a response to the Coronavirus, Pandemic. This includes Private Schools and 6th Forms Collages are also being told to follow the guidance to close their doors. The UK Government has announced that children of key workers (like NHS staff) and vulnerable children will not be included in this and previsions will be made to look after them. Prime Minister Boris Johnson added that he wanted to thank Teachers and Headteachers for helping to do this. But he added that Children:- "should not be left" with Grandparents or others in groups vulnerable to contracting Coronavirus. We are told that this academic year's exams will not go ahead within England and Wales; decisions are due to be made in Scotland and Northern Ireland very soon. It came as UK deaths reached 104 after a further 33 people died.

FOLLOWING UK Government advice in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Merseyrail services will be running every 30 minutes on all lines from start of service, on Thursday, 19 March 2020. All trains will be made up of 6 car carriages to keep the Liverpool City Region moving and ensure that Merseyrail is providing the most reliable service possible. Monday to Saturday Services will be running from their regular start time with a 30 minute frequency, with services on Sundays staying the same. There are likely to be further amendments to our timetable over the coming weeks, and we would encourage all customers to check before you travel. This can be done by visiting the Merseyrail website www.merseyrail.org or the Merseyrail twitter account @merseyrail for the latest information.

Andy Heath, Managing Director at Merseyrail, said:- "The safety of our staff and customers is of the upmost importance and these measures have been taken to ensure that we continue to provide a reliable, consistent service train service so essential workers can still travel around the Liverpool City Region. Merseyrail, alongside the rest of the UK rail industry, is being proactive in its response to this pandemic, ensuring the latest Government advice is shared with staff, including reminding people about good hand hygiene and keeping surfaces clean. When travelling by train, if you need to cough or sneeze, they should make sure they follow the Public Health England advice to 'catch it, bin it, kill it'."

METRO Mayor Steve Rotheram is urging people to follow national advice about essential travel as changes to public transport services are set to be introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to keep services running.

City region transport operators have been reviewing services and timetables in light of a reduction in passenger numbers due to people following the national advice and with a view to being able to continue to provide a resilient and appropriate level of service to support those who need to travel for essential reasons.

Customers are also being encouraged to pay by contactless where they can and to use cash as a last resort to help reduce risk for drivers and other customers.

People are also being strongly advised to follow Public Health England's guidance to protect themselves and others that includes washing hands more regularly and thoroughly, particularly when arriving at home or work and before eating.

Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram said:- "We find ourselves in very challenging times and I am strongly urging people to continue to follow the national advice to only use public transport for essential journeys. During this serious situation which has ramifications for both the number of travellers and staff, revised timetables are being introduced. However, I fully appreciate that we have city region residents who do need to travel, especially if they carry out essential services for our communities, and we will support them to get to where they need to be. I pay tribute to those workers in the transport sector, and indeed across all our public services, who are doing everything they can to provide those services in difficult circumstances."

As there are likely to be more changes in the coming weeks, customers are advised to keep checking both the national Government advice and transport operators websites and social media platforms for the most up to date timetables and to plan ahead.

From Thursday, 19 March 2020, Merseyrail services will be running every 30 minutes on all lines from start of service. All trains will be made up of 6 car carriages to keep the Liverpool City Region moving enable social distancing and ensure we are providing the most reliable service possible.

Monday to Saturday services will be running from their regular start time with a 30 minute frequency, with services on Sundays staying the same.

There are likely to be further amendments to the timetable over the coming weeks and customers should check before you travel.

There may be changes to other train operators timetables and customers should direct before they travel.

From Monday, 23 March 2020, Stagecoach services will be running to revised timetables. Customers should check their website for the most up to date information.

Arriva are reviewing services in light of the national guidance for public transport and social distancing and will let customers know of any changes.

Mersey Ferries are running please keep checking the Mersey Ferries website and @merseytravel for the latest information.

The Queensway (Birkenhead) and Kingsway (Wallasey) Mersey Tunnels are currently open.

For the latest national information and guidance in relation to the Coronavirus please visit gov.uk and Public Health England websites.

Public urged to continue to follow national guidance including advice about essential travel and social distancing.

Merseyrail services will be running every 30 minutes on all lines from start of service, on Thursday, 19 March 2020, to ensure a resilient service is maintained.

FOLLOWING the news that the National Trust will be aiming to open many of their gardens and parks for free during this difficult time, so the nation can use open spaces to relax while following the Government's social distancing guidance.

FOR over 135 years, M&S, our customers, and the communities we serve, have faced into challenges big and small and come through them all by supporting each other and working together. Now, as ever, the entire M&S team; across our stores, our support centres, our warehouses and in our supply chain; is working tirelessly to deliver for our customers. This is only possible through the dedication of our colleagues and I would like to express my thanks to each and every member of the M&S family. I would also like to say a huge thank you to you; our customers; for your loyalty and understanding during these exceptional times. However events unfold, M&S is here to help and we have already put in place new measures to support our customers and colleagues:-

► Colleagues across our stores and supply chain have been provided with additional hygiene products to use and extra cleaning is taking place to keep up our excellent standards for you and our teams.

► Colleagues from our Clothing and Home team will be joining our Food teams so we can continue to give the magic and sparkle service you rely on at M&S despite increased demand.

► Our expert fitters are still available to advise customers on the right styles and sizes for you but we have paused our cubicle based bra and suit fit services.

► We have longstanding relationships with the farmers, growers and manufacturers we work with and, together, we are increasing the amount of food we make here in the UK to help meet customer demand. Now, as ever, you can be confident that the food you buy from M&S is responsibly sourced and we are continuing to support and invest in our supplier partners to deliver trusted value every day.

► We will share helpful advice on ways to store and save your food and cook delicious meals - so please keep an eye on our social channels.

► To make sure we can always deliver for you, we have now introduced a contact free delivery experience for all clothing, home, flowers, hampers and wine orders. This gives the option of no hand to hand contact and the driver can leave the delivery safely at your door.

► M&S Bank is set up to support you if you're concerned about the impact on your finances and will tailor help to your individual needs. We are also offering currency refunds if you can no longer travel due to COVID-19.

Throughout our history, our customers, colleagues and communities have relied on us during the most challenging circumstances. We don't take that lightly and in the coming weeks we will share more about what we are doing to help you and the wider community, particularly its most vulnerable members.

It's the kindness and support that we give to each other that will help us get through these unprecedented times.

Take care and a big thank you from us all.

Steve Rowe and the M&S team

How to care for your pets staying at home and social distancing

THE RSPCA is encouraging pet owners to think about how they will care for their animals if they need to stay at home with suspected symptoms of Coronavirus. The latest Government guidance advises everyone to carry out 'social distancing' in order to stop the spread of Coronavirus and protect vulnerable members of the community. As a result of this advice the Government has said that:- "people can go out for a walk if they stay two metres away from people."

RSPCA animal welfare expert, Dr Samantha Gaines, said:- "There's no evidence to suggest that pets can be carriers of Coronavirus or can become ill from it themselves. We would urge pet owners not to panic and to not abandon their pets. The latest 'social distancing' advice does not have a huge impact on pet owners, but dog walkers do need to follow Government advice and keep two meters away from others while they are out for a stroll."

Social distancing

She added:- "Pet owners who are not showing any signs of Coronavirus themselves or living with anyone who has symptoms should continue to interact with their pets but adopt good hygiene practices including washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching them, their food, toys and bedding. This is good advice at any time and not specific to the Coronavirus situation. Avoid being kissed or licked and sharing food with your pet."

Social distancing tips for keeping your pets and family safe:-

						
						Always adopt good hygiene practises and 
						thoroughly wash your hands after interacting with your 
						pets, such as:- 
						
						rabbits,
						
						rodents, 
						birds and 
						
						reptiles.

						
						Avoid being kissed or licked and sharing 
						food with your pet. 

						
						Ensure you have supplies of pet food and 
						medication in case of you need to stay at home.

						
						Enjoy dog walks but keep 2 meters away 
						from other people

						
						Speak to your 
						
						vet 
						or doctor for more advice.

Stay at home advice:-

The charity encouraged pet owners to think about how they can care for their animals if they need to 'stay at home' if they or a member of the household show symptoms of the virus. Sam added:- "As well as the good hygiene measures, pet owners should try and ensure you have supplies of pet food and medication if you need to 'stay at home' and speak to your vet or doctor for more advice. If you own a horse or livestock and keep them on land that is not based at your address, arrange for a friend to care for them until you're able to return to normal. If possible, arrange for another person to care for your pet (you could consider using a dog walker or home boarder)."

Additional guidance for people staying at home with suspected Coronavirus:-

						
						Limit contact with pets and other animals 
						while you are sick.

						
						Do not go on dog walks, instead exercise 
						your dog in the garden or ask a friend or relative to 
						help. A dog walker or boarder may also be able to help.

						
						Ask friends to care for livestock and 
						horses.

						
						If you feel unwell ask friends or a 
						boarder to take your pets to be looked after.

						
						If you have any concerns about your pet 
						or your pet shows signs of ill health, please do not 
						visit the vet but phone for advice. As you will be 
						unable to take your pet to the vet yourself, have a plan 
						so that someone else can do this on your behalf.

Sam added:- "It's so heartening to see people rallying round to support each other at these difficult times, we'd encourage anyone who needs help to ask for it, from friends, neighbours and charities. 1 positive to come out of this is people will be working from home and spending extra time with their pets which is a great opportunity to try some new games."

Tips for keeping dogs happy:-

Mental stimulation is a great way to keep your dog entertained and occupied so you can keep your dog happy by replacing exercise with other activities until you are able to take them back out for their usual walks.

						
						Try challenging your pooch at tea time - 
						ditch the food bowl and feed Fido using a Kong or a food 
						puzzle to get them thinking. 

						
						Play, play, play! Most dogs love to play 
						so set aside some time to have a good game of fetch or 
						tug with your pooch. 

						
						Learning a new trick or command is great 
						mental stimulation for a dog. Get out their favourite 
						treats and try teaching Fido how to 
						
						wave his paw,
						
						'sit',
						
						'lie down', 
						or 'roll over'.

						
						Get him sniffing - scent work can be a 
						great way to keep them busy for ages! Hide treats around 
						the garden or around the house and send them off in 
						search of them. If you feed your dog kibble this can be 
						a great way to serve them their meals!

						
						Remember toilet breaks - remember your 
						dog will still need to go outside to use the toilet so 
						make sure they get regular access to the garden to 
						potter, sniff and wee.

						
						Spotify has recently launched 
						'My 
						Dog's Favourite Podcast'
						which has a range of 
						carefully selected spoken word, sound and original music 
						designed to encourage relaxation.

Tips to keep horses happy and healthy:-

						
						Adopt good hygiene practices including 
						washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before and 
						after touching them and any shared yard  items such as 
						wheelbarrows, brooms and forks. Avoid being licked by 
						your horse.

						
						Visit The 
						
						British Horse Society 
						websites for some practical tips.

						
						Ensure you have sufficient supplies of 
						feed and any medication needed.

						
						Although you won't be able to take your 
						horse beyond your land if you have suspected 
						Coronavirus, aim to ensure your horse is kept happy with 
						sufficient exercise and stimulation, if possible 
						increasing turnout, amending feeding accordingly and try 
						providing any existing stable toys to keep his mind 
						occupied as much as possible.

						
						Speak to your 
						
						vet 
						or doctor for more advice.

You can browse the RSPCA shop for toys and food games to keep your pets entertained.

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing animals in desperate need of care please visit our website or call our donation line on:- 0300 123 8181.

IN the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, England Golf has today announced a number of key decisions relating to all of our championships and wider golfing activities.

These remain extremely difficult and unprecedented times for the game of golf as well as the country in general.

England Golf remains committed to helping our golfing community adapt to the necessary changes and for golfers to continue to play the game in a safe environment and according to Government and public health guidelines.

The pace of change and the constant updating of Government and medical advice means that a continual process of re-assessment of decisions and guidelines must be undertaken.

England Golf will continue to communicate any changes through our website, social platforms and via direct correspondence to our affiliated counties, clubs and golfers.

It is vital that everyone continues to follow best practice when it comes to dealing with the current outbreak of Coronavirus.

MERSEYSIDE Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) would like to reassure members of the community that we are still here for them and will continue to respond to emergencies throughout the current pandemic.

Measures are being taken to ensure that our frontline firefighters and staff are protected to ensure we can continue to provide a service and also to protect the public of Merseyside.

Chief Fire Officer Phil Garrigan said:- "These are difficult times particularly for those working on the health frontline, but it's important that the public to know that we are doing everything we can to keep you safe. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service has robust business continuity plans in place which are tested regularly to make sure they work so there will always be enough firefighters and fire engines to respond to 999 calls. Like all emergency services, we plan and exercise for all scenarios regularly, including flu pandemics, so we know what to do in the face of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. On the basis of those plans, we have taken the decision to reduce some of our prevention activity where the risk of fire is low. We will also be avoiding visiting hospitals and care homes; except in cases of high risk or emergency; as we do not wish to put the particularly vulnerable at risk. Be assured we will continue to work with our partners to keep everyone in Merseyside safe."

Many members of our community will now be spending more time at home than usual, with some of us forced to self isolate. MFRS understands how stressful this can be and that's why we want to make sure people stay as safe as possible. We will be posting advice on our social media feeds about keeping yourself safe from fire; please take notice and always remember, if there is a fire, get out, stay out and call:- 999.

Follow these tips to stay safe from fire:-

► Smoke alarms – smoke alarms save lives, but only if they're working and in the right place. You should have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home. Consider installing additional alarms in rooms with electrical appliances or sleeping areas. Don't put alarms in or near kitchens and bathrooms where smoke or steam could set them off accidentally. NEVER take the batteries out of your smoke alarm to put into another electrical device.

► Heaters – keep heaters well away from clothes, curtains, furniture and other flammable materials. NEVER use heaters to dry clothes. ALWAYS switch off and unplug your heaters before going to bed.

► Smoking – if you smoke, use a proper ashtray and make sure it is placed on a level surface away from combustible materials. Make sure your cigarettes are fully extinguished. Don't smoke in bed – you could easily fall asleep while your cigarette is still burning and cause a fire.

► Candles – keep candles and tea lights away from anything that can catch fire. NEVER leave lit candles unattended – make sure they are fully extinguished before leaving the room or going to bed. Consider using LED battery-operated candles instead.

► Cooking – make it a priority to keep cooking areas clear and clean from combustible materials. Make sure your oven and grill are clean – a build-up of fat or grease can cause a fire. DON'T leave pans unattended while cooking and NEVER leave children or pets unattended in the kitchen.

► Escape routes – make sure everyone in your household knows how to get out in the event of a fire. Ensure your escape routes are clear from any clutter. Keep your door and window keys in a known and accessible place.

► IN AN EMERGENCY, CALL 999 IMMEDIATELY. In the event of a fire, get out, stay out and call:- 999.

During the current situation, we would ask those who are able, to check on their elderly and vulnerable neighbours and relatives and offer them support. If they are self-isolating due to their age or underlying health conditions, check if you can help by picking up items from the shop and leaving it on their doorstep.

CFO Garrigan added:- "As the country deals with the Coronavirus outbreak, many of you will be moving into self isolation, and many of you will be feeling anxious, vulnerable and isolated. Please remember that no matter what happens, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service is here, looking out for you and your loved ones."

IN response to the latest developments in the Coronavirus outbreak, the CLA has issued the following statement.

In this time of uncertainty, the CLA is doing its utmost to support its members, and we have published comprehensive advice on our website to provide support to the wide variety of rural businesses that are struggling to deal with the fallout of the corona virus outbreak.

It's encouraging to see that the Chancellor of Exchequer has pledged to make ₤350bn available to the economy. This will bring some much needed and welcome relief for rural businesses. We fully recognise that the global nature of COVID-19 will bring a level of economic distress to rural communities not experienced in generations and we are determined to support our members through it.

CLA President Mark Bridgeman said:- "Whilst most CLA staff are working from home after UK Government advice, we continue to support our members in every way possible; be it the business implications of Coronavirus, or standing up for their interests on the raft of changes and challenges that were already facing the industry."

To keep up to date with the latest CLA advice, visit the Association's Coronavirus Page.

DATE:- 18/03/2020 15:30

Tax Institute welcomes delay of off payroll working rules, but asks the Government to go further

THE Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) welcomes last night's announcement that the controversial 'off payroll' rules will be deferred until April 2021, but on the eve of publication of the Finance Bill urges the Government to defer other April 2020 changes, too.

John Cullinane, CIOT Tax Policy Director, said:- "We welcome the announcement last night that the reforms to the off-payroll working rules will be delayed from 6 April 2020 to 6 April 2021. We are currently in extraordinary times and many individuals, businesses and employers are already facing significant challenges simply being able to work or to pay the people they employ. These new rules had the potential to significantly impact the labour market, and their deferral is welcome."

In the light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CIOT is encouraging the Government to look critically at other measures scheduled to take place from next month, with a view to avoiding creating unnecessary burdens during a time of crisis.

John Cullinane added:- "There are a number of other measures due to commence in April 2020 which, when considered in the light of our current situation, should really be delayed. For example, the Finance Bill is expected to contain measures limiting the availability of Private Residence Relief, including reducing the final period exemption from eighteen to nine months. The property market is likely to slow down significantly in the coming months and properties may take much longer to sell than expected, leaving some vendors with an unexpected Tax bill. It would be sensible to defer this measure until 2021. Also, the new 30 day Capital Gains Tax reporting and payment obligations go live on 6 April. As this measure requires an entirely new reporting system, which is not expected to be fully operational by 6 April and has inadequate provision for the digitally challenged or excluded, it would be sensible to defer this until 2021 as well. Given the slower property market it would be unlikely to bring in the expected revenue this year in any case. We would encourage the Government to look critically at the Finance Bill, and those measures in previous Finance Acts which take effect next month, and defer those which are not absolutely vital. It will also ensure that any remaining measures stand a fighting chance of receiving proper scrutiny."

The CIOT is also urging the Government, and HMRC, to consider practical steps they can take to help businesses and individuals comply with their Tax obligations during this challenging period.

John Cullinane added:- "The measures announced at the Budget, and subsequently, to help businesses and individuals survive the pandemic are extremely welcome. Practical support and guidance is also needed, from simple things like missed deadlines and correspondence because offices are closed, to more complex matters around residence status and exceptional circumstances. We are ready, willing and able to help on these issues."

DATE:- 18/03/2020 15:24

Foodbanks need help

"We are currently experiencing unprecedentedly high levels of phone calls and emails both offering and seeking support and help. West Cheshire Foodbank are working closely with a wider local task force pulling together various agencies and will meet this Friday to co-ordinate our response in the light of considerable challenges we all face. Please look out for updates which will be communicated as soon as possible. Thank you all for your patience; this is a fast moving situation." Trustees of West Cheshire Foodbank

DATE: - 18/03/2020 13:34

Message from Sainsbury's Chief Executive Mike Coupe

YOU will have seen that, due to the ongoing uncertainty around the full impact of Coronavirus, supermarkets have been much busier than usual and customers are choosing to stock up.

I wanted to personally reassure you that we have more food and other essential items coming to us from manufacturers and into our warehouses and distribution centres. If we all shop just for the food that we and our families need, there will be enough for everyone.

I also wanted to let you know that at Sainsbury's, we are working really hard to ensure this remains the case. Over the past 2 weeks we have:-

► Ordered more stock of essential items from our suppliers.

► Put more capacity into our warehouses.

► Set limits on a small number of items, including some cleaning products, soap and pain relief. This is a precautionary measure - if everyone shops normally, there will be enough for everyone.

There are gaps on shelves because of increased demand, but we have new stock arriving regularly and we're doing our best to keep shelves stocked. Our store colleagues are working tirelessly and doing the best job they can.

Which brings me onto a request. Please think before you buy and only buy what you and your family need. If we all do this then we can make sure we have enough for everyone. And please help elderly and vulnerable friends, family and neighbours with their shopping if you can.

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support and to thank our colleagues who are all working incredibly hard to ensure we can continue to serve our customers well.

Best wishes,

Mike

17/03/2020 13:36