Quick update from me. Apologies for the last few days of silence. I thought I would give you all some peace and quiet over the Easter break.
From the calls and emails, I made and sent it was a weekend like no other in recent memory and one that was very tough for those who had been expecting a booming tourism trade.
PPE:
Over the last few days I have been calling round care homes to discuss PPE supply levels. This has included an updated on the status of the delivery of 1.3m pieces of PPE that was being delivered over the weekend. as well as updating them with the latest information on the status of the 1.3m pieces of PPE. It was not plain sailings and some care homes are in need. I am addressing this issue and will continue to work with local teams to get resources where they need to go.
If your organisation is low on PPE then please do use the following links:
· Purchase through the market – Applegate Supplies https://www.applegate.co.uk/…/ppe-industrial-supplies-31663…
· Order through National Supply Disruption Resource - https://www.supplychain.nhs.uk/covid19/ordering/
· Contact Devon Clinical Commission Group –
https://devonccg.nhs.uk/contact-us
· Contact Devon County Council
https://www.devon.gov.uk/…/personal-protective-equipment-f…/
Police Engagement
Many of you have been contacting my office with concerns surrounding tourists, second homeowners etc and we have all been alive to the impact this might have on our local services.
The local police force’s work has been fantastic and this weekend saw hundreds of fines issued, motorists turned back and main roads monitored. Their method to educate, enforce and engage is working. My team and I are continuing to work closely with them to make sure that can continue to protect the NHS and save lives.
Business Support
You can find the full raft of measures introduced by the government to help support businesses here: https://www.gov.uk/…/guidan…/covid-19-support-for-businesses
If you need clarification on any of it then please contact my office anthony.mangnall.mp@parliament.uk
It is important to note that the small business grant is eligible for all businesses in England who are in receipt of either Small Business Rates Relief (SBRR) or Rural Rates Relief (RRR). Meaning they will be eligible for a payment of £10,000.
South Hams council should have sent you a letter informing you of your eligibility and Torbay Authority have opened an application process on their council website, which can be found here: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/…/financial-support-for-business…/
Business rates are big concern for me and I am working with teams across Whitehall to see how we can change them in the coming months. Please watch this space as change and reform is needed. Especially if we are to support and promote our local shops and businesses.
The coming weeks
Looking at the evidence and the noises that are coming from government, I would guess that we have a few more weeks before the lock down is lifted. It is right that we follow the guidance and expertise of those who know and understand the science. These decisions cannot be political.
As parliament is likely to be recalled next week, I will be taking part in proceedings and ensuring that South Devon has a strong representative in Westminster fighting for its farmers, fishermen, businesses and everything in between.
Please keep going and let me know how I can help.
Call lists
Every day I speak to businesses owners and employees and individuals across South Devon who are asking for help, advice and reassurance. I am doing my best to answer those questions and will continue to do so. My position and office are here to help you so if you need help or you know someone else who does then please let us know.
Lastly, please remember there is volunteer list on my website, it is there to be used and can be found here: https://www.anthonymangnall.co.uk/news/coronavirus-help-list
We will get through this together.
All the best
Anthony