The spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) is understandably concerning and, as the situation develops, it is becoming apparent that ‘life as we know it’ may not be able to carry on for a period of time. This is very much the case in Italy and it’s right that people here in West Cornwall want to know how the UK response to coronavirus will impact on them. The best advice I can give is to encourage people to refer to Government websites including the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for those who expect to travel overseas. I will, of course, continue to raise specific concerns with Ministers as they are raised with me especially in relation to our businesses that are already experiencing a negative impact on cashflow.
The Government has led from the front with the focus being on managing the spread of coronavirus to keep us all safe. The advice is being updated constantly but the key points that ensure the best chance of minimising the spread of the outbreak are as follows: Wash hands frequently and catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue; be prepared to self-isolate; use health services wisely and stay up to date using trusted sources of information. The co-ordinated effort of all public bodies including our schools is impressive and I was also encouraged to hear what measures West Cornwall Hospital has in place to care for people appropriately when I attended a meeting at the hospital last week.
Retaining the focus on health, this month is Brain Tumour Awareness Month and later in the month the All Party Parliamentary Group on Brain Tumours (which I chair) will be releasing fresh data to highlight how many children are diagnosed with brain tumours and the impact this has on their physical and social development. The annual ‘Wear a Hat Day’ takes place on Friday, 27th March and it would be great if local charities and businesses could take part by organising an event to help raise awareness. You can find out more at https://www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/wear-a-hat-day
If you are a BID levy-paying business in the Penzance Business Improvement District then you have until Thursday to vote on whether you support the continuation of BID Penzance. Your completed ballot paper must be received by Cornwall Council’s St Austell electoral office no later than Thursday 19th March.
I was encouraged, having spent an evening with members of the Climate Action Group in Helston on Friday, to learn more about the proactive work the group is doing. Not just to respond to the climate crisis by reducing carbon emissions but by the efforts that are being made to improve the overall experience for everyone living, working in and visiting the town. The community engagement to recover and enhance nature in particular is something that will have a direct impact on the health and wellbeing of everyone! Add this to the proposals the Helston CIC have to improve Coinagehall Street to reduce air pollution and improve the ambiance of the area and we have something worth shouting about. Find out more: https://www.facebook.com/HelstonClimateActionGroup/
