Hello, and welcome to issue 43 of your Community Bulletin.
As France and Germany impose lockdowns, Europe is clearly in the grip of the second wave of Covid-19.
The number of Covid-19 cases is currently rising in Scotland but there are signs of positive progress as the rate of increase appears to be slowing.
It is crucial that we act as quickly as possible to reduce the transmission rate and prevent a rapid increase in cases, which could overwhelm NHS Scotland and cost lives.
On 23 October, the First Minister announced proposals for a new strategic framework for managing Covid-19 in Scotland, based on the view that it would be best to tackle its resurgence by targeting specific local circumstances rather that a national approach.
Following a short period of consultation, specifically involving local authorities and directors of public health, the proposals for the 5-level framework were agreed by the Scottish Parliament on 27 October, to be implemented from Monday 2 November. The arrangements will be reviewed weekly
This week the Scottish Government announced that Dumfries and Galloway will initially be categorised as Level 2.
To minimise the risk of Dumfries and Galloway moving to a higher level and maximise the chance of moving to a lower level, it is essential that we all follow the guidance and stay within the rules.
The coming week will see both Hallowe’en and Bonfire Night.
Obviously, this year, children won’t be able to go guising door to door. Nor will we be able to gather in the gardens of friends or neighbours for firework parties. But this edition of our Community Bulletin shows that you can still have fun while staying safe.
On the Level
The Scottish Government has announced that Dumfries and Galloway will be categorised as Level 2.
Level 0 – nearly normal
• Indoor meetings allowed: maximum of 8 people from 3 households
• 15 people from 5 households can meet outdoors
Level 1 – medium
• 6 people from 2 households can meet indoors / outdoors
• There may be additional restrictions at times preventing socialising at home
Level 2 – high
• No indoor meeting with other households
• 6 people from 2 households can meet outdoors and in hospitality settings
• Pubs, bars and restaurants permitted to sell alcohol indoors with a main meal, and only until 8pm
Level 3 – very high
• Alcohol sales not permitted indoors/outdoors; cafes, pubs and restaurants allowed to open until 6pm to serve food and non-alcoholic drinks
Level 4 – lockdown
• Non-essential shops, hospitality and gyms closed
• Some outdoor meeting allowed
• Schools open