Public appeal to visitors
Together with our partners, we’re urging visitors to think twice and not to travel unnecessarily to Dorset. This includes online adverts targeted at those areas where we know people are most likely to visit us from.
We’re pleased to open up local facilities so our residents can return to the open spaces they love, however the message to those outside of Dorset is that we would like people to not come.
More than 20,000 calls to and from our emergency helpline
Since we launched our Together We Can helpline on 27 March, to support vulnerable people who need vital help while isolating at home, we’ve received and made more than 20,000 calls!
The helpline provides a friendly voice at the end of the phone and has been made possible thanks to a team of dedicated staff, including many re-deployed from their main council roles. The helpline is 0300 123 7052 and is open 8am – 8pm seven days a week.
£70m in Grant Support issued to local businesses
To date, we have processed over 5447 Business Grants, with a total value that will exceed £70m this weekend, to support local businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Business Ratepayers who have not yet applied are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply using the online application process as soon as possible.
Poole Park remains closed to traffic
Although car parks across our beaches and open spaces are now open, Poole Park continues to remain closed to vehicular traffic for at least the short term. This allows park users to continue to use the park for walking, cycling and exercising dogs without the usual volumes of traffic.
In other news, we’ve just announced a pilot project to use artificial intelligence (AI) technology to monitor, protect and improve the water ecosystem in Poole Harbour, which will begin in Poole Park lake.
Follow RNLI advice
Anyone going to the coast should follow RNLI advice:
- Take care near cliffs
- Check weather & tide times
- If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE
- In a coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 for Coastguard
At present there are no lifeguards on beaches. Lifeboat crews are fully operational, should they be needed, but it’s important anyone visiting the coast understands the risk and takes steps to keep themselves safe.
https://www.respectthewater.com
How to make a face mask
The national advice is to wear a face covering when you are in an enclosed space, such as a shop or on public transport.
Want to make your own? The Government have published some instructions on how to create your own using a T-shirt or a piece of cloth.