Leader's column: Fighting against the virus

In her latest column, council leader Brenda Warrington says the risk of a second wave of coronavirus infection "remains a clear and present danger" but her faith in Tameside's community spirit "remains unwavering".

For the last six months, protecting Tameside's health has been our highest priority. It is of concern that, according to our latest information, the number of infections in the borough continues to rise. 

This trend has also been mirrored in other areas of Greater Manchester and across the country.

The risk of a second wave of coronavirus infection remains a clear and present danger, especially as the days get colder and the nights get longer.

The best ways to support each other to fight back against the pandemic remain limiting the number of people in high risk settings, on public transport and in unnecessary contact with each other. 

I am particularly conscious that as our schools and colleges begin to reopen we need to do all we can to allow lessons to run smoothly while protecting our children and teachers.

With that in mind, I would ask you all continue taking all precautions, including wearing face coverings, avoiding large crowds of people, practicing good hygiene and observing social distancing at all times.

As we move on to a new phase of the fight against the pandemic, we have also gone out to our residents to ask them what they think of our response so far, and what we can do to make them feel more confident in living with coronavirus in the future.

This has involved getting the views of hundreds of residents through virtual listening sessions, our Big Conversation website, and speaking with a number of community partners such as charities and religious groups.

I am happy to announce that we’re now taking this commitment to engagement and consultation to the next stage by asking you to get involved in our response.

We are looking for ‘Community Champions’ to help spread key messages as well as tell us what is working and what isn’t. I would encourage anybody interested in volunteering for such a role to visit our website to find out more and how to apply.

It is clear that we now face a critical tipping point in our struggle against the pandemic.

The actions we choose to take over the next few weeks will determine whether we secure our future health and prosperity, or face the nightmare of a second wave and renewed lockdown.

My faith in Tameside’s community spirit remains unwavering, and I know that we will come together to keep doing what must be done.