SHOPPERS who go out for their essentials during the Coronavirus lockdown have been backed with free car parking in all of Wychavon District Council’s car parks.
The move has been introduced to help people while shopping for essentials and support volunteers caring for the vulnerable. Free parking was introduced last week for NHS, health and adult social care workers.
These workers can also park for free, and for any length of time, in on-street parking bays while on essential duties and displaying evidence such as a photocopy of their ID badge.
Anyone struggling financially is urged to make a claim for Universal Credit, Council Tax Support and any other benefits they may be entitled to. Visit www.gov.uk/coronavirus for more.
Anyone of working age who claims Council Tax support will receive a one-off reduction of up to £150.
Retail, leisure and hospitality businesses will receive an automatic 100 per cent discount on their Business Rates Bills. This will be applied automatically and new bills issued.
Self-employed people can get help through the Government’s self-employed income support grant which is being administered by HMRC.
Details of other support available for businesses including how they can claim funding from the Government to pay the wages of staff is available at www.wychavon.gov.uk/business
The council’s housing team has offered temporary accommodation to all known rough sleepers across the district while waste and recycling collections remain unaffected.
Vale residents are being asked to support crews by not carrying out house, shed or garage clearances at the moment unless they can store the waste created for a period of time. Crews cannot take extra waste as it would overwhelm the service.
Coun Bradley Thomas, leader of Wychavon District Council, said: “This is the greatest public health emergency in a generation and I want every resident and business owner in Wychavon to know we are all working flat out to support you.
“To anyone in need of support our message is – please do not struggle alone. Get in touch with us. We are ready and here to help you through this.”
Coun Frances Smith, chairman of Wychavon District Council, said: “I want to pay tribute to all our staff in the NHS and social workers for the fantastic work they are doing under very difficult circumstances. Thanks also to supermarket staff who are going the extra mile to keep shelves stocked and ensure everyone has access to essentials.
“I also applaud the effort being made by the community to rally together to support each other during this difficult time. Everyone needs to follow government advice and stay safe.”
Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/coronavirusf for more.
