Dear TRA Chair,

It has come to my attention that some TRAs have been considering applying for funding in order to purchase face masks and/or face covers, in order to take full – but safe – advantage of the recent (slight) relaxation in lockdown measures. Our colleagues in Public Health have issued the following message to us, which I am forwarding to you just in case your TRA is contemplating taking such a step:

1.  Face masks should be used by front line health and care workers, or others carrying out essential works and coming within 2 metres of an individual, or who need to protect themselves from usual occupational hazards. The Government has urged the public not to buy medical-grade masks so as to ensure there is sufficient stock for these workers.

2.  Face coverings can be made at home using a cloth, scarf, or bandana that ties behind the head. On Sunday, the Government suggested the public consider making their own face coverings to be worn in enclosed public spaces, e.g. on public transport or in shops, where social distancing cannot be maintained. The Government has advised that face coverings do not need to be worn outdoors, while exercising, or in workplaces such as offices and retail. They should also not be worn by anyone who may find them difficult to wear, e.g. small children and those who have problems breathing when wearing a face covering.

3.  Importantly, face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing and they are really aimed at preventing the person wearing the covering from unknowingly passing on the virus, rather than protecting themselves from other people. To protect yourself, the advice remains to follow social distancing measures and isolation guidance, and to regularly wash hands. Any residents who are shielding are advised to continue to do so until at least the end of June

If you have any queries regarding this message, please contact the council’s Covid-19 response team at covidsupport@southwark.gov.uk or call 020 7525 5000, and ask for Public Health.

Kind regards,

John

John McCormack, BSc. (Hons.); MA; Cert. Ed.; PhD (London)

Tenant and Home Owner Involvement Team Leader| Communities Directorate | Housing and Modernisation Department

Southwark Council | 160 Tooley Street | London | SE1 2QH

Tel: 0207 525 7544

Mob.: 07908 795167

COVID19 (Coronavirus)

For the latest NHS guidance, please visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19

To read the latest advice and information for Southwark residents, please visit www.southwark.gov.uk/coronavirus

If you have an enquiry about a vulnerable Southwark resident, please email covidsupport@southwark.gov.uk or call 020 7525 5000