The plans that will support Northumberland residents and businesses during the coronavirus pandemic

Northumberland County Council is reassuring residents and businesses that it will fully support them through the COVID-19 outbreak.

The council has said it has processes and plans in place to deal with any challenges that the county may face over the next few weeks - with key services prioritised and operating as normal – where possible.

Coun Peter Jackson, leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “I want to reassure everyone that we have plans in place to continue to deliver critical services to the best of our ability following guidance from the Government.

“It is true to say that our services are, and will continue to be tested as this outbreak develops, but we are working tirelessly to respond and deal with COVID-19 - prioritising those key services such as children's and adult social care, and other services which are vital to our communities.

"Following advice on school closures, we are committed to ensure our vulnerable students and children of key workers get access to the support they need, and I can confirm that for any child entitled to free school transport, these services will run as normal next week.

“In the coming days we will continue to make announcements on how our services are adapting and responding to the situation, including a volunteering programme where we can come together as a county to support our most vulnerable.”

Coun Jackson, continued: “I am acutely aware of the economic impact to all our communities, and we are working on ways that the council can assist residents across the county, particularly those in most need.

“We will also work with businesses in helping them to access key grants and loan schemes that have been made available to them.

“Indeed, a recovery plan is already being developed to support organisations following the outbreak.

"Please be assured that for council suppliers and contractors the message is very clear - it’s business as usual - and we're committed to doing our bit to keep businesses going.”