Covid-19: Health boss says residents have helped reduce the risk of virus, but admits "we still have a way to go"

As Rotherham and the rest of the country were plunged into its third coronavirus lockdown this week, Rotherham Council's director of public health, Ben Anderson, said that he knew the borough had a strong sense of community - but urged residents to "all pull together and help one another so that the risk of the virus can be reduced further".

He added: "Like the rest of the UK, Rotherham is now in national lockdown restrictions. While I know that many people will be disappointed at this, I want to thank residents for their hard work and the sacrifices that they have made already.

"By sticking to the guidance, residents have helped Rotherham to reduce the risk of the virus, but unfortunately, we still have way to go." 

Mr Anderson added that Rotherham's infection rate, which as of Monday was at 309.0 per 100,000 people, was below the national average but noted there had been an increase in cases in the borough over the Christmas period.

"With the new strain of the virus beginning to spread across the country, it is important that everyone follows the lockdown guidance so that we can reduce the risk of Covid-19 further," added Mr Anderson. 

"The council will be working to help residents stay safe throughout the lockdown. Services like the Rotherham Community Hub, for help with food parcels, befriending and general advice, and other mental health services are available for those who need them."

Visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home for information on lockdown rules.