The Magazine went to print just after a sharp increase in the number of people in the Borough testing positive for Covid-19. The number of cases can change rapidly, which is a reminder to us all that we need to stay alert and do whatever we can to keep everyone safe. There is still a risk the number of cases will continue to increase, which will have an impact on our local hospitals. Please take note of the key public health messages designed to protect us particularly on hands, space, face, the need to get a test if you have Covid symptoms
and the need to self-isolate if you or someone you have been in contact with tests positive. This year has been challenging in many ways, but there has been good news that we hope points the way to an end of the pandemic next year X New testing site The borough’s third local testing site recently opened at Felixstowe Road in Abbey Wood for use by people who book a test through the NHS.
X Vaccination – Largescale vaccination against COVID-19 is due to start next month for NHS staff, followed by other groups in priority order.
Inspirational park opens The borough’s most recently transformed and upgraded open space officially opened on 26 September. Old Farm Park playground and wildlife habitat in Sidcup is fully accessible by wheelchair and boasts a brand new playground, paths, trim trails, exercise equipment, benches, plants, trees and a wildlife area. The park will also become home to the borough’s official Covid-19 commemorative garden. Sponsors are being sought for the ongoing project and those interested are asked to email Parks&OpenSpaces@bexley.gov.uk
Pictured at the official opening are (l-r) Mayor of Bexley, Cllr James Hunt, Leader of Council, Cllr Teresa O’Neill OBE, Cabinet Member for Places, Cllr Peter Craske, James Brokenshire MP
For the latest national and local updates www.gov.uk/ coronavirus www.bexley.gov.uk/ coronavirus-covid-19
We will continue to share local Covid-19 information through our Community Champions, website, enewsletters and local papers. If you have a neighbour, friend or relative who may not have online access please share the latest local information with them.
Looking after your health
NHS and GP services remain open and they are working hard to make sure that when you come in for your appointment or treatment, everything is done to protect you from Covid-19. It is important that anyone who needs medical attention still receives it during the pandemic and that you turn up for hospital or doctor appointments. The NHS 111 telephone service can help if you have an urgent medical problem and you’re not sure what to do. In an emergency always call 999. Visit - www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/nhsservices/urgent-and-emergency-care/
7
