Statement on schools and serious rise in Islington coronavirus cases
Cllr Richard Watts, leader of Islington Council, said: “Coronavirus cases are rising fast in Islington and London, and following public health advice about this very serious situation, we originally advised schools in Islington to move to online learning.
“After discussion today with the Department for Education, we have now advised our schools to open as usual to pupils on Wednesday (Dec 16), and advised our schools that they are able to arrange an INSET day on Thursday. Friday was to be an INSET day already.
“We issued this advice to schools because the situation in Islington is so serious. As Islington and London continue to face surging rates of coronavirus it’s absolutely vital we all work together and do everything we can to keep our families and loved ones safe. The more people mix, the more the virus will spread, and the serious illness and death we will all see in our community. I urge residents to do whatever you can to stay safe at this dangerous time.”
Notes to editors
We can all help stop the virus spreading, and protect our loved ones.
Please stay at home as much as possible to help stop the virus spreading. Avoid crowded spaces, including buses and trains, if you can, as the virus spreads more easily when people mix. Travel or shop at less busy times.
- Make space – stay 2 metres apart from people who aren’t in your household or bubble - this helps stop the virus spreading between people
- Wash your hands - regularly and for at least 20 seconds, especially when you get home– this washes any virus off your hands and helps stop it spreading
- Wear a face covering over your nose and mouth to stop the virus spreading - in public places, including in shops, on public transport and at the school gates
Know the symptoms of Covid - a high temperature, or a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste and get tested if you have any of the three symptoms
Testing is quick, easy and free – Islington has two testing sites, which the council made sure were opened to help our residents. Getting a test is free and simple – nhs,uk/coronavirus or call 119
We can support you if you have to self-isolate: phone We Are Islington on 020 7527 8222 to find out how – help with emergency food deliveries, shopping, financial support, benefits.
Islington schools will reopen to onsite teaching after the Christmas break as originally planned (in the week of January 4).
Contact information
If you are a member of the public with a general question about the council please view the contact information on our website or call 020 7527 2000.