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Newport Council sets out its strategic recovery aims in response to Covid-19

Posted on Wednesday 24th June 2020
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Newport City Council’s Cabinet met today with a key focus on how the council has responded to the current health emergency, and the plans for recovery.

Councillor Jane Mudd, Leader of the council, said: “The Covid-19 health emergency has posed significant and unprecedented challenge to the way we deliver our services and our way of life in Newport. Our focus has been to preserve life, minimise the spread of the virus and support our communities and the vulnerable that have been impacted by this disease.

“During this difficult time, the council has ensured that frontline services continue to be delivered to communities across Newport.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our staff, partners, residents and our local volunteers and unsung heroes – so many people have gone above and beyond to help – the effort has been outstanding.”

Members of Cabinet echoed these sentiments recognising many public services, bodies, charities, volunteer groups and individuals.

Some of the key areas of work and support highlighted included:

  • Continuation of kerb-side waste collection
  • Over 1,000 food parcels distributed
  • Schools supporting children of key workers and vulnerable children
  • Flying Start settings looking after children and supporting key workers
  • Continued care and support provided by the council’s children and adult social services
  • Over £46 million of business support provided to eligible businesses
  • Working with partners to provide safe and secure accommodation for the homeless
  • Operating a virtual contact centre answering over 43,000 calls

Over the last few weeks, statistics have shown encouraging signs of Covid-19 cases slowing but the council is fully aware that future peaks could still occur. During this time, there has also been some easing of restrictions and the re-establishment of council’s services such as the Household Waste Recycling Centre, establishment of a track and trace service and preparation for the safe reopening of schools.

Councillor Mudd added: “We are now at a stage where further council services are recovering into a ‘new normal’ way of working and we must have a renewed focus to ensure that this good work is not undone, that we support our economy to rebuild and we focus on the communities that have been impacted most by Covid-19.

“Our strategic recovery aims will provide a focus for Members, staff, partners and our communities to understand what our priorities are for this next year. They do not replace, but rather support the council’s corporate plan, building upon and ensuring the focus and response is appropriate following this unprecedented time.”

The four strategic recovery aims identify the additional challenges that Covid-19 has presented and focuses on these key areas, supporting:

  • education and employment
  • the environment and economy
  • health and wellbeing
  • the needs of citizens post Covid-19

“We recognise many issues including loss of employment, impact on business, and the progress, achievement and wellbeing of both mainstream and vulnerable learners. These strategic aims will help us understand and respond to the impact on the city’s economic and environmental goals and to enable Newport to thrive again.

“We will promote and protect the health and wellbeing of our people, safeguard our most vulnerable, and build strong, resilient communities. We will provide people with the resources and support that they need to move out of the crisis, considering in particular the impact that Covid-19 has had on our minority and marginalised communities.” said Councillor Mudd.

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