Calderdale ranked 20th in England as Covid infection rates approach 500

The borough currently ranked 20th in England for COVID-19, with an infection rate of 494 cases per 100,000. This is the highest the rate has ever been in Calderdale.

The Leader of Calderdale Council, Councillor Tim Swift, said: “We know there’s a lot of information out there and it can be confusing, so we want to reach as many residents as we can, to ask for their help and give clear advice about how we can all do our bit to bring the rate of infection down.

“Many residents will have received an email with a message from myself and our director of Public Health, Deborah Harkins, which explained the latest situation and how we can all play a part in reducing the spread of the virus.

“Our clear advice is also being shared through social media; this included a live Q&A event on our Facebook and twitter last night, which was watched by over 200 people. This can be watched again on our YouTube page. We’ll also soon be sharing films documenting personal experiences of COVID.

“Each home in Calderdale will soon receive this year’s Winter Wise booklet, in partnership with the Calderdale CCG.

"In addition to the usual winter safety messages, this also includes advice and guidance around COVID. You’ll also hear our messages through radio adverts and see them in local papers and on posters, billboards and other advertising around the borough.

“We’re doing all we can to reach as many people as possible. We have less than two weeks until the end of the national lockdown; if we don't reduce Calderdale’s infection rate now, we risk being subject to stricter restrictions for longer.

“So, please look out for our messages and follow the advice. We’re at a critical point and we all need to do everything possible to save lives, protect our NHS and social care services and avoid severe restrictions over the Christmas period. We managed to bring our rate down earlier this year and I know we can do it again.”