News

The Government has announced Islington and all London boroughs will move into tough new Tier 4 restrictions tomorrow (Sunday 20 December) because of soaring cases of coronavirus, and risk of serious illness and death.

As 2020 draws to a close, we wanted to write to each and every one of Islington’s amazing head teachers, teachers, teaching assistants, school support staff and early years workers to say a heartfelt thank you for all the incredible work you have done over the last year.

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.

Islington Council has advised schools to move to online learning from the end of Tuesday (Dec 15) because of a serious rise in coronavirus cases across London.

As rates of Covid-19 rise – and the possibility of more severe restrictions looms over London – Islington Council is calling on everyone to be extra safe this weekend as they shop local to save lives and jobs.

A spokesperson for Islington Council said: “Homelessness is not a crime, and should never be treated as such. Anyone sleeping rough is in need of help and support, and the council's priority will always be getting people into safe, secure accommodation and giving them the support they need to move off the streets.

As the country exits lockdown and with Christmas just around the corner, Islington Council is urging residents to shop at their local independent stores to help keep their treasured small businesses alive and their high streets thriving – and to make the most of the reopened local restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs.

Cllr Richard Watts, leader of Islington Council, said: “From today (Wednesday, 2 December) London is moving into Tier 2 High Alert coronavirus restrictions. The relaxation of restrictions is welcome, allowing businesses and venues to operate in a Covid-secure way and giving us all the opportunity to enjoy more freedoms than during lockdown.  

Statement from Richard Watts, leader of Islington Council, in response to the Spending Review 2020.

Islington Council has adopted a new, five-year Youth Safety Strategy as part of its ongoing work to ensure children and young people in Islington get the best possible start in life and are kept safe.

Islington Council’s ambitious rollout of School Streets is continuing, with seven more schools set to benefit from the scheme before the end of the year.   

Islington’s second Covid-19 testing site is open in Finsbury Leisure Centre – after calls from Islington Council to make it easier for local people to get tests.