County councillors set out core actions to tackle coronavirus defined by 'kindness and resilience'

Cllr Matthew Hicks, leader of suffolk county council, Cllr Sarah Adams, leader of the labour group and Cllr Penny Otton, leader of the liberal democrats, green and independent group have put aside political differences, and outlined core actions the council will take to tackle coronavirus moving forward.

In a joint statement today, they said they would react in a manner defined by 'kindness and resilience' and driven by 'compassion, determination and versatility' in order that people in Suffolk receive the best response.

They urged people to be selfless and 'do the right thing for society' regardless of the potential negative impact on themselves, and implored people to heed official advice.

They praised the efforts being made by their own staff, those working in district and borough councils, and the police, voluntary and business sector and NHS.

In a 10-point plan they stated moving forward they would:

· Protect the most vulnerable residents with easy access to advice, the right practical support and provision of essential public services.

· Provide more financial stability and certainty for care providers and support them to respond with maximum flexibility, including smooth transitions between hospitals and home care.

· Make changes so that elderly and disabled residents can use their concessionary bus passes for essential journeys earlier in the day.

· Work with schools to implement the Government’s school closure arrangements, including free school meals, support for vulnerable children and children of key workers.

· Communicate with everyone in Suffolk with timely, clear and relevant information in a wide range of ways.

· Redeploy Suffolk County Council staff into frontline social care roles.

· Keep Suffolk’s highways moving so that the emergency services can respond and essential travel can continue.

· Ensure Suffolk Fire and Rescue has the resources to respond when lives are at risk.

· Work with district and borough councils and the Chamber of Commerce in Suffolk to support local businesses and the self-employed with advice and guidance.

· Start work now on plans to help Suffolk’s communities and economy recover from COVID-19.