Multiagency COVID-19 response in Swindon
Swindon Borough Council, Public Health England South West and local employers are working together to support staff working in Swindon, following a small number of Covid-19 cases in workplace settings
Published: Wednesday, 22nd July 2020
The Council and PHE are currently working closely with Swindon firms Honda, Royal Mail and XPO Logistics (working for Iceland), as well as Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service following small numbers of people testing positive for COVID-19.
Steve Maddern, Director of Public Health for Swindon, said:“Small outbreaks are expected as a result of relaxing lockdown arrangements and as people return to work. We have developed a local outbreak management plan to supplement and support the national test and trace service, and to ensure that Swindon can respond swiftly to help manage a local outbreak or hotspot.
“The Council is currently responding to a small number of COVID-19 cases, and these people are isolating in accordance with the Government’s self-isolation guidance.
“All workplaces remain open and are following the existing cleaning guidance for non-clinical settings advice, including continuing to provide staff with guidance on social distancing and hygiene to limit spread.”
Mike Wade, Consultant in Health Protection at Public Health England South West, said: “PHE South West is working closely with Swindon Borough Council and local employers to provide public health advice to stop the virus spreading.
“Everyone should be following social distancing advice, both in and out of work, to prevent the spread of the virus.
“Good hygiene is the best prevention and there are some simple steps you can take to protect you, your family and colleagues by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and if you cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue.”
Cllr Brian Ford, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: “The wellbeing of the local community is always our priority and our thoughts are focused on the recovery of those that have tested positive for COVID-19.
“We are working with a range of organisations to do everything we can to minimise the spread of the virus in Swindon. PHE has issued extensive advice and guidelines to support them in managing confirmed cases of COVID-19.
“We all have a part to play in reducing the risk of infection and must continue to follow social distancing guidance while at work and socialising.”