Community News

Keen for a way to recognise and celebrate the significant difference made by people and businesses in the Black Country, the Chamber has modified their annual business awards to give it a business ‘heroes’ focus, reflecting an on-going campaign that has been active since the start of the pandemic.

There are 13 categories which aim to draw out the innovative and diverse range of outstanding contributions by Black Country organisations and employees during these difficult times.

Large Business
Small Business
Family Business
International Trade
Start-Up Business
Retail Resilience
Business Hero of the Year
Young Business Hero of the Year
Collaboration & Partnership
Outstanding Key Worker

University Awards:

Adaptability & Innovation
Kindness in the Community
Exceptional Employee or Team

Headline partner, the University of Wolverhampton has actively contributed three of the categories. Richard Nicklin, Deputy Director of Business Engagement at the University said: “In the context of the community response to the pandemic which has been overwhelming internally at the University - with both students and staff giving their time and efforts to fighting the virus in all kinds of ways - and also externally, we decided to introduce three new categories which better represent the current climate.
“In the spirit of the Chamber of Commerce celebrating local business heroes, as the headline partner of the event, our categories will focus on recognition for those businesses who have adapted their services and showed real innovation throughout the crisis; celebrating an exceptional employee or team and shining the spotlight on individuals or companies that have shown kindness in the community.”
Nominations can be made through the Black Country Chamber Awards website which closes at 5pm on Friday September 11.
The shortlisted nominations will be announced towards the end of September and the final will be on November 13.
Corin Crane, chief executive of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce said, “I am so pleased we have found a brilliant way to recognise the impact that the Black Country businesses and individuals have been making during the Coronavirus pandemic. I have heard of many great contributions and I am really looking forward to seeing the nominations.
“We’ll be announcing more about the Awards event itself in the coming weeks, suffice to say, it is going to be exciting, full of energy and a fitting celebration of our Business Heroes.
“I would also like to formally acknowledge and thank the University for their involvement this year. It is great to have the support of such a well-respected, world-renowned institution and their collaboration with us on the Awards is invaluable.”
The Business Heroes Awards are open to all businesses in the Black Country (including non-Chamber members). Nominations and further details can be found on the website. 

For the first time in the history of the Census, there will be a question on service in the Armed Forces following a campaign led by The Royal British Legion and Poppyscotland and supported by Sandwell Council.

Sandwell Council is delighted that the Government has recently announced the 2021 Census will now include a question to provide information on whether someone has served in HM Armed Forces, following legislation passed last month.

The Royal British Legion, which led the campaign, is at the heart of a national network offering a range of support and services to the Armed Forces community. The decision to include the question on the 2021 census will provide the Legion, as well as public bodies, local authorities, and other military charities with valuable information to ensure they can best meet the needs of serving personnel, veterans and their families.

It has been estimated that there are 2.4 million veterans currently living in Great Britain, who make up part of a wider ex-Service community which includes their spouses, partners, dependent children and widow(er)s. However, little is currently known about the exact numbers, location and needs of this significant group. Including an Armed Forces question in the next census would provide public bodies, local authorities, and charities with valuable information to ensure they are able to deliver the best services they can for our Armed Forces community.

Sandwell Council Deputy Leader, Councillor Maria Crompton, said: “Having a better understanding of the profile and needs of veterans in Sandwell is a key part of making sure our services are tailored for serving personnel, veterans and their families.  I welcome this historic change to include a question on the Armed Forces to the 2021 Census.”

Charles Byrne, Director-General of The Royal British Legion, said: “This is an extremely proud moment for the Legion. After leading a successful campaign, the fact that a military question will be in the 2021 Census will significantly improve our understanding of the Armed Forces community which up until now has been very limited.  It will ensure that we, along with other charities and service providers, can deliver the best service possible to them when and where it is needed most.

“This is something we have been striving towards for many years, it will have a huge impact on service personnel, veterans and their families well into the future, as the outcome will allow us to provide more effective care and support to those who are in need. We are delighted and are extremely grateful to everyone who has supported the campaign and helped us to achieve this historical success.”

Birmingham Heritage Week is returning for 2020 to celebrate the city and its fascinating history, people and places once again. Running from Thursday 10 – Sunday 20 September, this year’s festival will include virtual tours, special outdoor performances, walks and more.
 
In its sixth year, Birmingham Heritage Week will feel a little different to previous festivals due to restrictions as a result of the pandemic, but with events taking place across 11 days there will be plenty of chance to explore the city and delve into its past as usual – whether that’s from the comfort of your own home, or at a safe in-person event.
 
Events are now live at birminghamheritageweek.co.uk with more activities to be added so continue to check back for updates.
 
Birmingham Heritage Week 2020 is sponsored by Birmingham City Council and organised by Birmingham Museums Trust.
 
Irene De Boo, Birmingham Heritage Week Co-ordinator, said: “Birmingham Heritage Week is about discovering how the past has influenced the city today, so we felt it was more important than ever to celebrate Birmingham and its stories, during what has been an historic year for everyone.
 
“We may not be able to bring people together in exactly the same way but we have a brilliant programme of events that can be enjoyed safely online or in-person, so we’d encourage everyone to make the most of this year’s festival, while we’re all spending more time based locally. We’re sure everyone will enjoy discovering something new about this city’s rich heritage this September.”
 
Some of this year’s highlights include:
 
A free guided tour of Birmingham’s oldest operational swimming pool, Woodcock Street Baths, with the option to take a dip for those that fancy a swim. This historic swimming pool retains most of its original features and was constructed in 1902. Guided tours on 10, 11, 17, 18 and 20 Sept

Enjoy an exclusive hidden treasures tour of Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery while its closed to the public, including dinner in the Edwardian Tearooms. Limited ticketed event on Saturday 19 Sept.

Did you know that Ladywood has a Buddhist Peace Pagoda? Visit this golden domed Buddhist Vihara for a tranquil escape from the city and hear from the resident monks that study and practice there. Free timed entry on Thursday 10 September to Sunday 20 September, 9am – 3pm.
The HS2 archaeology programme is continuing to unearth some fascinating discoveries and you can learn more about some of the exciting finds in a series of free online talks as part of the HS2 archaeology conference on Saturday 19 Sept. Reserve your space online.

Discover your local area or new parts of the city and Walk for Heritage during Birmingham Heritage Week. Your sign-up money will support the work of Birmingham Museums Trust, ensuring the charity can continue to inspire future generations. Take part any day during the week and receive a limited-edition heritage pin badge.

Relax while enjoying a series of enchanting mini outdoor performances by the CBSO in the Handsworth secret gardens. Four sessions from 5.30pm on Friday 18 Sept. Timed tickets to be booked in advance.

See a free screening of a new documentary by Aidem Digital & DESIblitz, From Africa to Britain, which recounts personal stories of those who made new lives in Birmingham and the Black Country. Free limited tickets available for Friday 18 Sept; 6pm – 7pm at The Hive.
Meet staff from the Birmingham Royal Ballet in the magnificent surroundings of Aston Hall. You’ll discover that ballet is for everyone and find out about dance, costumes, and how dancers train. Timed ticketed entry throughout the day on Sunday 20 Sept.

Take a free virtual tour of the award-winning Coffin Works on Saturday 12 Sept, 12noon – 1.15pm. This guided tour will focus on the stories of the site’s restoration and the former workers who made coffin fittings for the ‘great and the good.’

The priority at all in-person events is to keep attendees and event organisers safe. All activities will take place within government guidelines. There will be limited space so if you are unable to attend because of symptoms please let event organisers know so the space can be used.
 
More announcements will be made in the coming weeks on the Birmingham Heritage Week website and social media pages.

Showcasing the range of support available to find employment or enter training, the event will include information of interest to residents of all ages and career stages.

The event is hosted by the council’s employment and skills team – Think Sandwell – who have supported 75 people to start jobs and apprenticeships since April 2020.

Councillor Rajbir Singh, Cabinet Member for Skills and Employment, said: “Covid-19 isn’t going to stop us providing residents with the jobs and skills support they need to succeed.

“Jobs and Skills in Sandwell – Online is a week-long series of free online workshops, providing advice to help residents of all ages, to help find their next job or new career including apprenticeships, employment skills, and support for residents made redundant due to Covid-19.
“There is still time to register for the events and I encourage as many as possible to sign-up.”

Videos, support information and workshops will be posted daily during the week. The programme covers the following:
Monday 24 August - All about apprenticeships

What apprenticeships are available, how to apply and a guide to Sandwell council’s apprenticeships programme.

Tuesday 25 August - Training Tuesday
Find out what free training courses are available to help you improve your skills or gain new qualifications.

Wednesday 26 August - Workshop Wednesday
Gain employability skills from our experienced advisors.

Thursday 27 August - Employment/Redundancy Support
An in depth look at the support available to get into employment, whether you’ve been made redundant, looking to change career or re-enter the workplace after time out.

Friday 28 August- Spotlight on...
More information on popular careers including the care industry; construction and working in schools.
To book a FREE place visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/employmentevents

Following Government guidance on how visiting in care homes should be coordinated as lockdown measures are eased across the UK Birmingham City Council has decided to temporarily stop all non-essential visits to care homes within the city.

This guidance confirms the priority is to continue to reduce the risk of Covid-19 transmission in care homes and prevent future outbreaks - ensuring the health and safety of both care workers and residents.

The current rate of infection in Birmingham is now above the set threshold of 14 cases/100,000 population, which put the decision to close care homes into effect.
Care homes were informed of the new restriction on Friday (14th August) with a letter from Director of Public Health for Birmingham City Council, Dr Justin Varney.

Councillor Paulette Hamilton said “In line with national guidelines, the Director of Public Health has looked at the emerging concern about cases rises in Birmingham and decided to stop visiting of both older adult and learning disabilities/physical disabilities care homes as a short-term measure to protect our most vulnerable. 

“We know what the risks are if Covid-19 spreads into care homes, so this is a pre-emptive step to protect our elderly. If the case numbers fall, then this restriction will be lifted, and this relies on what all of us do over the coming days and weeks to prevent the spread of the virus.”

Visits to citizens who are sadly considered to be ‘end of life’ will be deemed essential if appropriate risk assessments and precautions are taken.

Care homes will not reopen to non-essential visits until it is confirmed as safe to do so from the Council’s communication of its weekly thresholds.

Once the weekly thresholds have been determined and it is confirmed care homes can open to non-essential visitors, the decision to open then rests with the care home to reopen once they feel they can safely do so for residents, families, and staff.

London saw the longest stretch of high temperatures in almost six decades, as more thunderstorms are forecast across the UK. The Met Office said temperatures surpassed 34C in the city for the sixth day in a row - the first time that has happened since at least 1961. An amber storm warning is in place for much of England and Wales, including Liverpool, Bristol, Oxford and Cardiff.

Flooding, damage to buildings, travel disruption and power cuts are expected. A yellow storm warning - meaning there is a small chance of flooding and travel disruption - has been issued elsewhere in England and Wales, as well as in parts of Scotland, for Wednesday night. The yellow warning applies to parts of England and Wales until Monday night next week.

The Met Office also warned of potential damage to buildings from lightning strikes or strong winds, and 30 to 40mm of rain falling in less than an hour in some places. It comes after torrential rain and lightning lashed large parts of Scotland.

A major incident was also declared in Fife. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said it received more than 1,000 emergency calls overnight due to the severe weather. Ten properties in Lancashire were also affected by flooding following overnight storms, according to the Environment Agency. However, hot weather has persisted elsewhere in the UK.

Devon and Cornwall Police warned the south west of England is "full to capacity", leading to "unprecedented demand" for 999 services. The force said it saw an increase in anti-social behaviour and public order offences on Saturday and Sunday. Assistant Chief Constable Jim Colwell said the weekend's events, spurred on by the hot weather, had forced officers to attend a "plethora of different incidents".

In Sussex, more homeowners had water supplies cut off or restricted on Wednesday. At least 300 householders had already been without tap water since Friday.

Steve Andrews, head of central operations for South East Water, said more than 150 million litres of extra water were being pumped into the network as the UK heatwave continues.

This is one of the oldest traditional fruit in the world and every part of it is medicinal.it is found in all tropical region of the world, wherever the soil is fertile enough.it is a member of the Caricaceae family. Pawpaw is also called papaw or papaya 

Pawpaw plants grow in three sexes and are relatives: The male produces only pollen and never bear fruit, the female produces small, inedible fruits unless pollinated, and the hermaphrodite can self-pollinate since its flowers contain both male stamens and female ovaries. Almost all commercial pawpaw orchards contain only hermaphrodites. 

Pawpaw may help protect against health conditions. 

In Africa, pawpaw leaves are used as a treatment for malaria, hepatitis, cough, bronchitis and gonorrhoea, infected wounds, fungal infections, Asthma attacks, indigestion cases, guinea worms, cancer. Pawpaw is a plant for every illness. The plant contains substances of medicinal value, such as antibiotics, vitamins, flavonoids and enzymes. Pawpaw contains an enzyme called papain that aids digestion. Pawpaw seeds also contain the cyanogenic substance called prunasin. 

Ripe and unripe fruits, seeds flowers, leaves and roots are all used for various treatment. In fact, the pawpaw tree is a pharmacy in itself. 

The fruits give sufficient supply of vitamins: vitamin A for good eyesight and also necessary for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair, vitamin B for good nerves impulses, assists in the absorption of fat, and reduces chronic inflammation. Choline is a very important and versatile nutrient found in papayas that aids our bodies in sleep, muscle movement, learning, and memory. Choline also helps to maintain the structure of cellular membranes, vitamin C to support the immune system against infections. 

The fiber, potassium, and vitamin content in papaya all help to ward off heart disease. An increase in potassium intake along with a decrease in sodium intake is the most important dietary change that a person can make to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Raw pawpaw pulp contains 88% water, 11% carbohydrates, and negligible fat and protein. In a 100-g amount, papaya fruit provides 43 kilocalories and is a significant source of vitamin C (75% of the Daily Value, DV) and a moderate source of folate (10% DV), but otherwise has a low content of nutrients. 

The possible health benefits of consuming pawpaw include a reduced risk of heart disease, improving blood glucose control in people with diabetes, and lowering blood pressure and progression of age-related macular degeneration. 

Coronavirus restrictions mean that ecotherapy project Livability Flourish can’t welcome the public to their wildlife-friendly summer garden at the moment – but with the Flourish at Home Art to Fundraise, they’re inviting artists to share summer blooms with an online audience.

Artists are invited to create and donate one or more postcard-size images in any medium, on the theme of bee-friendly flowers and plants. This inclusive project wants to inspire artists young and old, professional and amateur, of all abilities, reflecting Flourish’s diverse and inclusive ethos. Artists’ completed images will be displayed in the Flourish online gallery, available for sale for a minimum £20 donation.

Flourish supports individuals who live with disability or mental health challenges, engaging and training people in horticulture and eco-skills, conservation and crafts. Just as important is Flourish’s role in building friendships and community connections, with many service users naming this social contact as a key aspect of Flourish. 75% of individuals attending Flourish report a high sense of wellbeing after four months’ participation, and some go onto volunteering, employment or education. ‘It’s nice to feel useful,’ says one client, and another adds: ‘A lot of fun and laughter today – I’m buzzing!’

The initiative is part of Flourish’s annual fundraising appeal, which due to the pandemic, has been forced to move online to raise much-needed funds for Flourish at Livability’s wellbeing discovery centre Holton Lee, near Poole. The centre is home to a beautiful flower garden, large vegetable plots and 350 acres of Dorset countryside. Usually the site is open to the public and welcomes people with disabilities, those living with mental health issues and people wanting to improve their wellbeing.  The space has become a haven to many as it provides the opportunity to learn new skills, work with others and connect with nature. Guests can also enjoy walks, nature-spotting and accessible trails, and the opportunity to buy fresh produce and craft items created at Flourish.

‘With the art world having to take a rest during the lockdown, we thought this was good timing to launch an online gallery of artworks that can raise money for the project,’ says Emma Browning, Wellbeing Programmes Manager. ‘Like most charities and businesses, Covid-19 has had a financial impact on Flourish and a fundraising project at this point will help greatly with the additional costs we will incur moving forward. The artworks will be available for sale during September, when we would have normally hosted our annual community fair, now postponed. This offers an opportunity for new and old friends and supporters of Holton Lee to support us in a different way.’
 
Dorset artist Maria Burns says she is taking part because she’s seen the value of Holton Lee’s work at first-hand: ‘My dad attended the Flourish project when he had Alzheimer’s and I saw the benefit [to him]. He was a very sociable man so he loved being surrounded by friendly people on the project. It’s a really lovely and very peaceful place at Holton Lee. My dad always loved gardening, so the Flourish project gave him the opportunity to carry on with one of his passions in a safe way.’

Closing date for postcard entry is 24 August 2020 and artwork will be on display until the end of September.

The Black Country Chamber of Commerce are celebrating after being named the first Chamber in England to have been awarded the Defence Gold Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Award 2020.

The Armed Forces Covenant Scheme enables employers to publicly declare their support for Defence personnel. The three-tier scheme of bronze, silver and gold awards encourages employers to support defence and the wider armed forces community by aligning their company values and providing a working environment that openly advocates support for employees from the service community. The awards enable the Ministry of Defence to publicly thank and honour organisations for their support.

British Chambers of Commerce Co-Executive Director Hannah Essex said: “I am delighted that the Black Country Chamber has been recognised for their support of our defence personnel. Not only have they championed this work in their local communities, they are also coordinating and encouraging greater efforts across the Chamber Network.
 
“This Award serves as another example of how local Chambers are striving to make their communities a better place to live and work.”
 
Corin Crane, Chief Executive for Black Country Chamber of Commerce said: “The Defence Employer Recognition Awards represent the value of our UK Armed Forces and the many benefits they bring to employers and business. As an organisation we are committed to upholding our covenant pledge, receiving gold status is testimony to the hard work and endeavours of our team and we congratulate our fellow award winners for the recognition and value they place on our Armed Forces and those in the wider defence community.”
 
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, Johnny Mercer, Minister for Defence People and Veterans said: “ The breadth and diversity of the winners this year show business support for the Armed forces continues to grow no matter the sector, company size or location. I am grateful for the positive attitude and flexible policies these organisations have adopted towards the defence community, which is testament to the fantastic contribution our serving personnel, veterans and their families can make to any organisation.”
 
Sarah Walker, Project Manager and Armed Forces Champion for Black Country Chamber of Commerce told Prosper; “Gold ERS status is a huge achievement which publicly recognises our support for the Armed Forces Community within the Black Country and through our nationwide project the Chamber Military Network (CMN).

“As a Chamber, we are the lead on the CMN project and the award winning ‘Supporting the Unsung Hero’ business start-up programme. We remain committed to ensuring the profile of our military community is raised at the highest levels.”

Martineau Gardens, a Therapeutic Community Garden in Edgbaston, Birmingham is on the shortlist to win a share of Persimmon Homes’ Building Futures £1million pot supporting under-18s nationwide but first they need online votes to win.

Persimmon Homes West Midlands is backing Martineau Gardens to be a prize winner in October, where cash awards of £100,000, £50,000 or £20,000 will be made to those winning the most online votes.

Tim Bruton representing Martineau Gardens said: “It is a huge achievement to have been selected as a regional finalist, but now we really need people to get behind us and get voting so that we are in the strongest possible position to earn one of the top three cash awards on the night.

We have an excellent Environmental Education programme and thousands of family visits each year. If we are fortunate enough to win the public vote we will be able to build a dedicated classroom and improve the children’s play area to enhance the natural play experience.”

Tim added: “Voting could not be simpler. Just log on to www.persimmonhomes.com/building-futures/finalists and select Martineau Gardens and vote for us. We would really appreciate everyone’s support. Please vote as often as you can.”

Building Futures is being delivered through the Persimmon Charitable Foundation. Through the scheme, a total of 128 grants of £1,000 have been awarded to groups supporting sport, education & arts and health across Persimmon’s 31 regional businesses and its head office.

Persimmon Homes is an official partner of Team GB and the Persimmon Charitable Commission enlisted the help of athletes Jason Kenny and Laviai Nielsen to help determine the three regional finalists for each business division.

One initiative from each category will go on to win £100,000 each through a national award scheme to be decided by a public vote.

As well as the £100,000 first prize, there will be a £50,000 second prize and a £20,000 third prize in each sector; while a further 87 shortlisted projects will each receive £5,000.

Online voting opened on 27 July and will close at midnight on 18 September 2020.

The continuing efforts of health and social care workers in the city have been praised as they continue to face up to the coronavirus pandemic.

Leader of the City of Wolverhampton Council, Councillor Ian Brookfield, and Cabinet Member for Adult Services Councillor Linda Leach visited the council-run Bradley Resource Centre and HARP (Home Assisted Reablement Programme) last week to meet staff who provide short term intensive reablement for people when they are discharged from hospital.

And they paid tribute to the hard work and dedication of care workers across Wolverhampton who have continued to support the city's most vulnerable residents throughout the national emergency.

Cllr Brookfield said: "It was a pleasure to visit Bradley Resource Centre and speak to the team who work there. They have had a really difficult time over the last four months, but their energy and commitment to the elderly and vulnerable people who need their help has been absolutely amazing.

“We got the chance to speak with staff and service users and see for ourselves the various safety measures that have been put into place at Bradley, like other council facilities, to make them Covid-secure.”

Cllr Leach added: "We should all be incredibly proud of the work of health and social care staff in our city.

"They have shown incredible dedication and compassion through what has been a terrible time for our country, and on behalf of the council I want to thank them all for their fantastic work."

The council’s Stay Safe, Be Kind campaign offers clear and simple advice about how people can help themselves, and how they can support others who may be particularly vulnerable at this time.

Further easing of Covid-19 restrictions - due to come in this weekend - has been postponed for at least two weeks by the Prime Minister, amid concerns over an increase in coronavirus cases.

Speaking in Downing Street, Boris Johnson said "we must squeeze the brake pedal" to keep the virus under control. Wedding receptions of up to 30 people were meant to be allowed as part of the changes but cannot yet happen. Face coverings will be mandatory in more indoor settings, such as cinemas.

He also postponed the reopening of casinos, bowling alleys and skating rinks and other close contact services, indoor performances, pilots of larger events to 15 August.

The Prime Minister also imposed further restrictions on slowly opening up the admission of people to large sporting events, including the Goodwood race meeting, snooker at the Crucible and cricketing.

Mr Johnson said progress against coronavirus was continuing with  the daily and weekly number of deaths falling, but warned that some European countries are "struggling" to control it. The UK must be ready to "react", he added.

But business leaders in Greater Birmingham called for a “rapid improvement” in Downing Street communications.

Paul Faulkner, chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “Ensuring there is no second peak or second national lockdown is critical for businesses. But so too is the need for a rapid improvement in Government communication.

“One day’s notice on a huge change in guidance for those businesses due to reopen tomorrow and communication of local lockdown measures via twitter late in the evening are not effective ways of engaging businesses. In order to enforce government guidance, businesses need clear messaging and time to understand and apply it.

“This also reinforces the need for a more nuanced approach to government support for businesses including sector-specific support and ongoing access to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme for those businesses most impacted by ongoing Covid-19-secure measures and local lockdowns.”

A weekly ONS survey shows the prevalence of the virus in communities is likely to be rising for the first time since May and last night the health secretary announced new restrictions on household contact in the North West and parts of West Yorkshire.

Guidance for employers having more discretion over whether employees work from home or return to the workplace from tomorrow remains unchanged.

Extending the requirement to wear a face covering to other indoor settings (such as museums) where you are likely to encounter individuals you would not usually meet will become law from 8 August.

Sandwell Council has today issued urgent advice for Sandwell residents in an attempt to avoid a local lockdown.

The council’s emergency committee met to discuss the rise in Covid-19 cases in Sandwell, which has seen 85 people test positive over the past seven days.

The committee has issued three key pieces of advice to people in Sandwell as part of ongoing efforts to slow the spread of the virus and avoid a local lockdown:

Sandwell residents who are currently shielding are being strongly advised to continue shielding for their own safety.
All residents are being strongly advised NOT to go inside the homes of other people.
Anyone who has symptoms must self-isolate and book a test.

All Sandwell residents are asked to follow this advice and play their part in reducing the number of Covid-19 cases.

Sandwell Council’s Deputy Leader Councillor Maria Crompton said: “The coronavirus situation in Sandwell is serious.

“To avoid a local lockdown we’re strongly advising those who are shielding in Sandwell to continue to do so after the national shielding period ends today (31 July) while there is an increase in cases locally.”

Cllr Crompton re-iterated that the advice was a strong recommendation from the council and public health professionals for everyone in Sandwell who is shielding.

“We know that people who are shielding are vulnerable to Covid-19 and they are more likely to become very ill or to die if they are infected.

“We know people are looking forward to going out again but we’re really strongly advising people who are shielding to stay put for now and go out as little as possible. This applies to everyone in Sandwell who is shielding.

“We’re also asking people across Sandwell not to socialise with others inside each other’s homes.

“We know that Covid-19 spreads more easily indoors. So, we really strongly recommend that people do not go inside other people’s houses while the infection rate is increasing.

“We also need people to continue washing their hands regularly, wearing face coverings in shops and on public transport, to social distance from other people and – most importantly – to get a test and self-isolate if you have symptoms.

“We really need people to follow this important advice.

“We are seeing a significant increase in coronavirus cases and by working together we can do our best to avoid lockdown in Sandwell.”

Further announcements will be made by the council as the situation develops.

Some of Birmingham’s most fascinating historic venues are opening their sites for a series of special events that will delight families, food fans and culture lovers throughout the rest of 2020.

These are the first events the Birmingham Museums Historic Properties, including Aston Hall and Blakesley Hall, have been able to run following the coronavirus lockdown – and there’s not long to wait as they begin in August!
 
Alex Nicholson-Evans, Commercial Director at Birmingham Museums Trust, said: “We’ve really missed our visitors, and while we can’t fully reopen our Historic Properties, we’re thrilled we can welcome the public back for these unique events. We’ve created a fun programme we are confident we can run safely, so everyone can relax and enjoy themselves. What’s more buying a ticket is a great way to support Birmingham Museums in these incredibly difficult times. We can’t wait to see you!”
 
The first event on Sunday 23 August is an outdoor theatre experience in the stunning grounds of Aston Hall. Enjoy a charming performance of the classic children’s tale Wind in the Willows by the Attic Theatre and Tread the Boards Theatre Company, with the grand mansion as the backdrop.
 
Join Toad, Badger, Ratty and Mole in this heart-warming and hilarious show suitable for all ages. Add a Badger’s picnic box, with a range of tasty options to choose from, for an extra treat.

With two performance times to choose from (2pm or 5.30pm) this will be an enchanting experience everyone will enjoy.

On Sunday 30 August visit the beautiful gardens of Blakesley Hall for a relaxing summer picnic from 11.30am-3.30pm. The surroundings of this picturesque Tudor house are the perfect setting for this Bank Holiday weekend event. For the ticket price you’ll get a reserved picnic spot on the lawn, a delicious picnic box, be able to enjoy live music from a local folk band, and craft stalls selling handmade gifts. All picnic spots are arranged in order to facilitate social distancing.
 
Visited should bring their own picnic blankets, outdoor chairs and even a small gazebo and really make a day of it. Pre-order tokens for Pimm’s and cider or enjoy hot and chilled drinks from the Herb Garden Café.

Pre-booking will give you a kid’s craft activity bag, so everything is ready for you when you arrive and available at: www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/blakesley/whats-on/blakesley-summer-picnic.
 
Are you a pizza and wine lover? On Saturday 5 September Sarehole Mill is the place to be for a fun and informal pizza and wine tasting evening. Celebrating all things Italian, you’ll enjoy delicious canapés, pizza tasters and wine tasting in Sarehole Mill’s scenic outdoor courtyard.
 
The stone baked pizzas are prepared and baked on site by the resident baker who uses the finest ingredients to create authentic Italian style pizza.
The event is hosted by Tony Elvin of The Wine Events Company, who will provide a brief introduction to the basics of wine tasting and guide people through an evening of relaxed and entertaining tasting.

All who attend will be provide with the chance to taste five Italian wines and learn about the regions they come from and why pizza and wine match so perfectly.

With more unique events taking place throughout September, including guided walks at Blakesley Hall and Sarehole Mill that will bring the local area to life, there’s plenty to look forward to. 

Into the autumn and winter months look out for more, including the popular Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla at Sarehole Mill and spooky Ghost Tours, Torch Lit Tours and Christmas Spectacular events at Aston Hall.
 

The borough Sandwell, in the West Midlands, has been named as an area of concern by Public Health England (PHE) following a rise in the number of coronavirus cases.

In the last two weeks, 173 people have tested positive for the virus in the borough.
Council officials are urging those who are shielding to continue doing so, and residents are being strongly advised not to go inside other people's homes.

Sandwell Council's deputy leader said the situation was "very serious".

The local authority held an emergency meeting as the area was added to the official watchlist and called for residents' help in a bid to avoid a local lockdown. The latest figures saw Sandwell's rate of infections rise to 28.1 per 100,000 people in the week up to 27 July, up from 26.9.

However, the rate is still less than half that of Blackburn & Darwen, England's current hot spot, while areas such as Leicester, Oldham, Bradford and Pendle all saw much higher rates of infection. In recent weeks, Smethwick has been seen as the centre of the outbreak in Sandwell, but figures presented to the emergency council meeting on Friday showed the rate of infections in West Bromwich was almost as high.

While a rate of 4.5 infections per 10,000 people was registered in Smethwick for 22-28 July, West Bromwich was 4.1. Far above the 0.2 in Rowley Regis.

Maria Crompton, Deputy Leader of Sandwell Council, called on anyone with symptoms to get a test and self-isolate immediately. She also asked those shielding to keep doing so, despite a national "pause" being introduced at the weekend.

"We know people are looking forward to going out again but we're really strongly advising people who are shielding to stay put for now and go out as little as possible," she said.

"Area of concern" is the lowest level on the PHE watchlist, which helps guide the national response to the pandemic.

It reflects not just the highest weekly incidence rate and trend in areas, but also experts' advice and local plans to tackle the spread.

Staying alert for Eid Al-Adha this month will help to protect friends and family from coronavirus (COVID-19). The great effort communities across the country made to adapt ritual practise and control the virus during Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr, now needs to continue, so that people can celebrate safely while preventing the spread of infection.

A huge number of sacrifices have been made in recent months, as communities have had to adapt how they celebrate different festivals and other important occasions. It is vital this work is not undone and that we continue to remain flexible in order to control the virus. The most important actions you can take are to maintain social distancing during festivities and practise frequent hand washing, for 20 seconds.

The festival of Eid Al-Adha starts on Thursday 30th July and ends on Monday 3rd August. As with other religious festivals during COVID-19, it is essential to adapt traditional practices for people to protect themselves, their friends and families. The Government’s stay alert and safe (social distancing) rules apply to all UK citizens.

Mosques have now reopened for prayer and service, but in a COVID-Secure way and to ensure social distancing. This means most Mosques are not able to welcome as many worshippers as before. You should speak to your local Mosque to find out what arrangements have been put in place.

There are also guidelines everyone needs to follow when outside the Mosque to ensure they stay safe for Eid. These include not gathering in large groups in people’s homes. Whilst you can gather outdoors in groups of no more than 30, these gatherings will be organised by local Mosques in partnership with local councils, in compliance with COVID-19 Secure guidance.

These restrictions are in place to keep all our families, friends and communities safe during this time, and we recognise that this may make Eid-Al-Adha feel different. Faith leaders continue to use digital tools to bring worshippers together for prayers and sermons and we would encourage you to take advantage of these services to mark Eid-Al-Adha safely.

Osman Dar, Consultant in Global Health at Public Health England said: “Please do continue to keep your distance from those people you don’t live with and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds more often throughout the day. In enclosed public spaces make sure to wear a face mask and stay alert to your surroundings. Please have a happy and blessed Eid”.

Maintaining social distancing is vital for multigenerational households with elderly parents and grandparents, who may also have underlying health issues. Visiting families and friends homes over Eid will increase the risk of spreading COVID-19, especially to those who may be most vulnerable, at a time when the virus is still widely circulating.

We are learning more about the impacts of COVID-19 all the time. Social distancing may be especially important for people of black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, as evidence suggests a disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on different ethnic groups.

Mosques have had to adapt, and it means that fewer people than normal are able to attend. Where feasible it would be advisable to organise Eid prayers outdoors in an appropriately spaced and COVID-secure settings. You could also celebrate with families and friends using digital technology such as Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp, Facetime, Viber and other technological means.

In addition to performing wudu at home before prayers and bringing your own prayer mat to the mosque or Eid prayers venue, healthy hygiene should also be maintained through handwashing for at least 20 seconds, using soap and water or a hand sanitiser, when you enter your home, blow your nose, sneeze or cough and eat or handle food, to help protect yourself and others. People preparing food for others, shouldn’t do so if they have any symptoms of COVID-19 or any other flu-like illness, even if the symptoms are mild.

Remember, if you have symptoms that may be caused by COVID-19, and do not require hospital treatment, or if you live in a household with someone who shows symptoms that may be caused by COVID-19, you must remain at home until you are well. Read more about the availability of testing if you are symptomatic and about self-isolation and household isolation.

Please Read the staying alert and safe social distancing guidance for the full details on the reasons you can leave your house and who you can meet up with.

When you do need to go out, you should follow the guidelines on staying safe outside your home. Most importantly, this includes the key advice that you should stay two metres apart from anyone outside of your household. Face coverings play an important role and can help us protect each other, reducing the spread of the disease if you are in an enclosed space where social distancing isn’t possible, where you will meet people you do not normally meet.

This is most relevant for short periods indoors in crowded areas, for example on public transport or in shops.

The most important thing we can all do in fighting COVID-19 is to stay alert. We must control the spread of the virus to protect the NHS and save lives.

To all celebrating stay safe and Eid Mubarak.