THE GOVERNMENT has provided more details into how the North East will receive 'enhanced' Covid support. 

All 12 local authorities in the North East and Tees Valley have been identified as an Enhanced Response Area (ERA) and will be added to the list of areas receiving an enhanced response package due to the high prevalence of Covid cases.

The Department for Health and Social Care said the decision is based on the "latest data and local insights and will provide targeted additional support to try and slow the growth of Covid-19 variants in the region, whilst also carefully monitoring NHS pressures and the number of cases and deaths." 

The support package will be in place for five weeks from Monday, July 26, to allow for targeted local action.

The support package includes the option to deliver extra testing in these targeted areas, the provision of logistical support to maximise vaccine and testing uptake, and further help for local public health campaigns. 

Local residents are urged to remain cautious and follow the national guidance; including to wear face coverings in crowded areas such as public transport; meet outdoors where possible; let fresh air into homes or other enclosed spaces, and consider minimising the number, proximity and duration of social contacts.

READ MORE: North East and Tees Valley to get enhanced Government Covid support

Public Health Minister Jo Churchill, said: “As the data changes it is vital that our public health response continues to change with it.

“By working in lockstep with local authorities and directors of public health, this additional support should help turn the tide on these growing case numbers and extend the wall of protection that vaccines is creating across the country.

“We all have a part to play in the continued fight against this virus and our message is a clear one: the best thing we can all do to protect ourselves and our loved ones is getting jabbed. If you haven’t had your first or second doses, I’d urge you to book your vaccination at the first opportunity.”

The full list of areas in the North East where additional support will be offered:

  • The North East LA7 (Durham, Gateshead, South Tyneside, Sunderland, Newcastle Upon Tyne, North Tyneside and Northumberland)
  • Tees Valley (Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesborough, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton on Tees)

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