Dumfries and Galloway Council in readiness for COVID-19

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Today’s meeting of Dumfries and Galloway Council allowed members to get the latest updates in response to COVID-19 so far, and to agree to stand down the usual committees and focus all energies on dealing with the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The first meeting of the Ad Hoc COVID-19 Sub Committee of Full Council will be scheduled to take place on Friday 27 March 2020 at 10.30 am in The Bridge, Dumfries. The amendment to Standing Order 8.6 to allow for greater use of virtual participation in Council meetings will assist involvement in the Sub Committee, and staff are exploring how future meetings could be webcasted.

Council Officers provided an update on the COVID-19 Pandemic, including the lead role of NHS D&G and the Health and Social Care Partnership; the national position; and the recent UK and Scottish Government announcements, particularly in relation to additional funding streams. The Council is fully supporting the Health Board and the IJB (Integration Joint Board).

Members were briefed on the Council’s arrangements for the COVID-19 Response Management Group, with particular regard to care for people, economic recovery, community support and education and learning.

A range of communication channels are being established to regularly update staff, Elected Members and the public, and to provide ways of supporting Dumfries and Galloway (https://www.dumgal.gov.uk/supportDG) and volunteering (http://thirdsectordumgal.org.uk/volunteer-to-help-during-coronavirus-crisis/) through the Third Sector.