thedailyecho--2020-03-24--UK Lockdown: Latest guidance on whether you should go into work

The UK has been placed on lockdown to stop the spread of coronavirus - preventing travel to and from work unless it is essential .
Speaking in an address to the public on Monday night Boris Johnson insisted that members of the public stay at home , outlining only a handful of exceptions .
One such exception was that members of the public were still allowed to leave their house to travel to and from , but only “ where this is absolutely necessary and can not be done from home ” .
‘ If you are working on site @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ Secretary of State for Housing , Communities & Local Government Robert Jenrick went into more detail on who should and shouldn ’ t go into work .
He tweeted : “ If you can work from home , do so .
“ If you are working on site , you can continue to do so .
But follow Public Health England guidance on social distancing.
” This suggests , though doesn ’ t explicitly state , that the likes of construction workers should continue to go to work , but maintain social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government announced the closure of schools to all pupils with the exceptions of children of “ key workers ” .
These key workers will continue to be allowed to attend work under lockdown rules , though should work from home if possible .
• Who is classed as a key worker ?
Here is a full list of key workers : Including doctors , nurses , midwives , paramedics , social workers , care workers , and other frontline health and social care staff required to maintain the UK ’ s health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nursery and teaching staff , social workers and those specialist education professionals who must remain active during the COVID-19 response to deliver this approach .
Which includes those essential to the running of the justice system , religious staff , charities and workers delivering key frontline services , and journalists and broadcasters who are providing public service broadcasting .
This only includes those administrative occupations which are essential to the effective delivery of the COVID-19 response or delivering essential public services , such as the payment of benefits .
Food and other necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ processing , distribution , sale and delivery as well as those essential to the provision of other key goods .
This includes police and support staff , Ministry of Defence civilians , contractor and armed forces personnel , fire and rescue service employees , National Crime Agency staff , those maintaining border security , prison and probation staff and other national security roles .
Those who will keep the air , water , road and rail passenger and freight transport modes operating during the COVID-19 response , including those working on transport systems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ includes staff needed for essential financial services provision , the oil , gas , electricity and water sectors , information technology and data infrastructure sector and primary industry supplies to continue during the COVID-19 response , as well as key staff working in the civil nuclear , chemicals , telecommunications , postal services and delivery , payments providers and waste disposal sectors .
• Work from home if you can The government have encouraged businesses and workplaces to encourage their employees to work at home , wherever possible .
Simply put , if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now compelled to do so .
• Unsure if your work is necessary ?
Stay at home and contact your employer If it is possible to work from home now employers should actively insist that you do so .
If you have been continuing to work on site , and have not yet been contacted by your employer , you should follow government instruction and stay at home , contacting your employer when possible .
As an employee you are entitled by law to request flexible working which could be used to ask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serious nature of the government ’ s instructions most employers should accept your request to work from home if they haven ’ t already .

Speaking in an address to the public on Monday night Boris Johnson insisted that members of the public stay at home, outlining only a handful of exceptions.
One such exception was that members of the public were still allowed to leave their house to travel to and from, but only “where this is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home”.
‘If you are working on site, you can continue to do so’
Secretary of State for Housing, Communities & Local Government Robert Jenrick went into more detail on who should and shouldn’t go into work.
He tweeted: “If you can work from home, do so.
“If you are working on site, you can continue to do so. But follow Public Health England guidance on social distancing.”
This suggests, though doesn’t explicitly state, that the likes of construction workers should continue to go to work, but maintain social distance while doing so.
What is essential work?
Last week the government announced the closure of schools to all pupils with the exceptions of children of “key workers”.
These key workers will continue to be allowed to attend work under lockdown rules, though should work from home if possible.
Who is classed as a key worker?
Here is a full list of key workers:
Health and social care
Including doctors, nurses, midwives, paramedics, social workers, care workers, and other frontline health and social care staff required to maintain the UK’s health and social care sector.
Education and childcare
This includes nursery and teaching staff, social workers and those specialist education professionals who must remain active during the COVID-19 response to deliver this approach.
Key public services
Which includes those essential to the running of the justice system, religious staff, charities and workers delivering key frontline services, and journalists and broadcasters who are providing public service broadcasting.
Local and national government
This only includes those administrative occupations which are essential to the effective delivery of the COVID-19 response or delivering essential public services, such as the payment of benefits.
Food and other necessary goods
Those involved in food production, processing, distribution, sale and delivery as well as those essential to the provision of other key goods.
Public safety and national security
This includes police and support staff, Ministry of Defence civilians, contractor and armed forces personnel, fire and rescue service employees, National Crime Agency staff, those maintaining border security, prison and probation staff and other national security roles.
Transport
Those who will keep the air, water, road and rail passenger and freight transport modes operating during the COVID-19 response, including those working on transport systems through which supply chains pass.
Utilities, communication and financial services
This includes staff needed for essential financial services provision, the oil, gas, electricity and water sectors, information technology and data infrastructure sector and primary industry supplies to continue during the COVID-19 response, as well as key staff working in the civil nuclear, chemicals, telecommunications, postal services and delivery, payments providers and waste disposal sectors.
Work from home if you can
The government have encouraged businesses and workplaces to encourage their employees to work at home, wherever possible.
Simply put, if you can work from home you are now compelled to do so.
PM @BorisJohnson has announced that everyone must now stay at home except in exceptional circumstances, to protect our NHS and save lives. pic.twitter.com/Pkus4Ep7g6 — UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) March 23, 2020
Unsure if your work is necessary? Stay at home and contact your employer
If it is possible to work from home now employers should actively insist that you do so.
If you have been continuing to work on site, and have not yet been contacted by your employer, you should follow government instruction and stay at home, contacting your employer when possible.
As an employee you are entitled by law to request flexible working which could be used to ask to work from home.
Given the serious nature of the government’s instructions most employers should accept your request to work from home if they haven’t already.


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Hampshire County Council criticised for ‘critical workers’ policy

HAMPSHIRE County Council has been criticised as it is claimed it classed all its employees as `` critical workers '' and told them they would be expected to continue to send their children to school .
The news comes as last week the government published a list of those who can be classed as critical workers in the response to Covid-19 .
This means that those working in several areas including health and local government , can send their children to school if children can not be safely cared for at home .
The county council stressed that it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wherever possible it has asked staff to keep their children at home where it is safe to do so .
It comes as an email seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service ( LDRS ) and understood to be sent to Hampshire County Council employees revealed that the authority has classed all its employees as critical workers .
In the email county council chief executive John Coughlan says : “ The Government has provided more details of who is considered a critical worker .
In accordance with these guidelines the County Council has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff are essential to the effective delivery of the COVID-19 response , or the delivery of essential public services and therefore , are classified as ‘ critical workers ’ .
As such we would expect that Hampshire County Council staff with children attending school , would continue to take them to school so that staff are able to either attend work , or carry out their role from home in accordance with the County Council ’ s protocol.
” In the email the authority says it will do its best to support employees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be flexible .
But concerns have been raised .
Unite regional officer Richard White said : “ It ’ s clearly nonsense for Hampshire County Council to claim that all of its staff are key workers.
” Cllr Keith House , opposition leader at the county council , added : “ It ’ s clearly not the case that all county council employees are key workers .
Many should be working at home .
Many county services have already closed down as a result of the epidemic yet the working assumption still seems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and come into the office .
Non-essential meetings are still happening .
This can ’ t be right.
” The Local Government Association ( LGA ) said many parents working in the critical sectors may be able to ensure their child is kept at home .
The LGA also added : “ Authorities should be mindful of the pressure categorising workers as critical workers will have on those working in schools while using their discretion to determine which categories of employee are reasonably needed to deliver the COVID-19 response.
” The county council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been asked to send their children to school , only in cases where they are not able to look after children safely at home , whilst undertaking their role .
Most staff are working from home .
Furthermore , and wherever possible , we have asked staff to keep their children at home where it is safe to do so .
School places are only being offered to children where this criteria is not able to be met .
Hampshire schools are reporting that the numbers of pupils seeking a place today is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less than 10 % of children requiring provision .
Parents are following the government ’ s advice and keeping their children at home . ''
Cllr Keith Mans , county council leader , added : “ Cllr House is welcome to raise concerns with us at any time .
Every decision that the County Council has made to-date has been informed by central Government guidance and sound clinical advice by our Director of Public Health for Hampshire .
Furthermore , Our responses are being kept under constant review to ensure we remain in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ circumstances .
“ We are all responding collectively to a national crisis and doing so , in the very best way we can to protect the safety and wellbeing of our residents and staff .
”

The news comes as last week the government published a list of those who can be classed as critical workers in the response to Covid-19. This means that those working in several areas including health and local government, can send their children to school if children cannot be safely cared for at home.
The county council stressed that it is adhering consistently to central government advice and wherever possible it has asked staff to keep their children at home where it is safe to do so.
It comes as an email seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) and understood to be sent to Hampshire County Council employees revealed that the authority has classed all its employees as critical workers.
In the email county council chief executive John Coughlan says: “The Government has provided more details of who is considered a critical worker. In accordance with these guidelines the County Council has determined that all roles undertaken by its staff are essential to the effective delivery of the COVID-19 response, or the delivery of essential public services and therefore, are classified as ‘critical workers’. As such we would expect that Hampshire County Council staff with children attending school, would continue to take them to school so that staff are able to either attend work, or carry out their role from home in accordance with the County Council’s protocol.”
In the email the authority says it will do its best to support employees and managers will make every effort to be flexible.
But concerns have been raised. Unite regional officer Richard White said: “It’s clearly nonsense for Hampshire County Council to claim that all of its staff are key workers.”
Cllr Keith House, opposition leader at the county council, added: “It’s clearly not the case that all county council employees are key workers. Many should be working at home. Many county services have already closed down as a result of the epidemic yet the working assumption still seems to be ‘business as usual’ and come into the office. Non-essential meetings are still happening. This can’t be right.”
The Local Government Association (LGA) said many parents working in the critical sectors may be able to ensure their child is kept at home.
The LGA also added: “Authorities should be mindful of the pressure categorising workers as critical workers will have on those working in schools while using their discretion to determine which categories of employee are reasonably needed to deliver the COVID-19 response.”
The county council said: “Not all staff have been asked to send their children to school, only in cases where they are not able to look after children safely at home, whilst undertaking their role. Most staff are working from home. Furthermore, and wherever possible, we have asked staff to keep their children at home where it is safe to do so. School places are only being offered to children where this criteria is not able to be met. Hampshire schools are reporting that the numbers of pupils seeking a place today is far fewer than expected with many having less than 10% of children requiring provision. Parents are following the government’s advice and keeping their children at home."
Cllr Keith Mans, county council leader, added: “Cllr House is welcome to raise concerns with us at any time. Every decision that the County Council has made to-date has been informed by central Government guidance and sound clinical advice by our Director of Public Health for Hampshire. Furthermore, Our responses are being kept under constant review to ensure we remain in a good position to respond to changing circumstances.
“We are all responding collectively to a national crisis and doing so, in the very best way we can to protect the safety and wellbeing of our residents and staff.”


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Communicare appeals for volunteers during coronavirus outbreak

A SOUTHAMPTON charity is appealing to all those in the city who have been `` laid off '' from the hospitality and retail industries amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Comminicare is calling on anyone who is currently not working due to the closure of shops , cafes and restaurants to volunteer to help the city 's most isolated and lonely resident .
As the Coronavirus situation develops , Communicare is urging people to volunteer now to help others in their community with essential supplies and emotional support .
Manager of the charity , Annie Clewlow said : “ We ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-essential trips out or encouraging people to leave home unnecessarily , but we do need help with checking on our service users during this period .
“ We need people to come forward , who could help regularly , even if it ’ s just to telephone some of the city ’ s lonely and isolated each day to check on them .
`` Many already only had a small network of people they socialised with , facilitated by our services .
Before the Coronavirus outbreak they may have seen just one or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lunch clubs and events , and may have no family close by .
`` So they were already isolated and lonely before this unprecedented event.
” Communicare ’ s Good Neighbours ’ Network normally supports nearly 400 individuals and families annually , covering more than 2,300 tasks including one-to-one befriending , transport to activities , such as the regular lunch clubs and tea parties it hosts and shopping for , or with , those it helps .
All the assistance offered is free to users , although beneficiaries are invited to make a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'Communiteers ' are offered expenses .
“ Even chatting over the garden fence at a safe distance would help those who are lonely , and naturally worried , and have become even more isolated as a result of the situation we ’ re all in , '' Annie added .
`` They need regular contact from someone trustworthy .
`` For this reason we would not recommend knocking on doors of those who won ’ t already recognise you as a near neighbour .
`` Remembering to keep a safe social distance apart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To find out more about volunteering , please call 023 8021 6023 , visit www.communicareinsouthampton.org.uk

Comminicare is calling on anyone who is currently not working due to the closure of shops, cafes and restaurants to volunteer to help the city's most isolated and lonely resident.
As the Coronavirus situation develops, Communicare is urging people to volunteer now to help others in their community with essential supplies and emotional support.
Manager of the charity, Annie Clewlow said: “We’re not asking people to participate in non-essential trips out or encouraging people to leave home unnecessarily, but we do need help with checking on our service users during this period.
“We need people to come forward, who could help regularly, even if it’s just to telephone some of the city’s lonely and isolated each day to check on them.
"Many already only had a small network of people they socialised with, facilitated by our services. Before the Coronavirus outbreak they may have seen just one or two people a week at our organised lunch clubs and events, and may have no family close by.
"So they were already isolated and lonely before this unprecedented event.”
Communicare’s Good Neighbours’ Network normally supports nearly 400 individuals and families annually, covering more than 2,300 tasks including one-to-one befriending, transport to activities, such as the regular lunch clubs and tea parties it hosts and shopping for, or with, those it helps.
All the assistance offered is free to users, although beneficiaries are invited to make a donation if they are able, and 'Communiteers' are offered expenses.
“Even chatting over the garden fence at a safe distance would help those who are lonely, and naturally worried, and have become even more isolated as a result of the situation we’re all in," Annie added.
"They need regular contact from someone trustworthy.
"For this reason we would not recommend knocking on doors of those who won’t already recognise you as a near neighbour.
"Remembering to keep a safe social distance apart at all times is also vital.”
To find out more about volunteering, please call 023 8021 6023, visit www.communicareinsouthampton.org.uk


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Council to waive parking restrictions allowing takeaway services amid coronavirus

A BOROUGH council is lifting parking rules amid Coronavirus , meaning new takeaway services can operate fully .
Test Valley Borough Council ( TVBC ) has confirmed to waive loading rules outside businesses that are now operating take away services , providing they are not causing obstruction .
Councillor Nick Adams-King , who is Deputy Leader of TVBC , has put forward this motion to help business across the district during the Covid-19 crisis .
He has urged residents to `` be sensible '' while collecting a takeaway .
He said : `` I have this morning arranged with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ALLOW loading outside businesses that are now operating a take away/food delivery service , providing they are not causing an obstruction or are parked in a disabled parking space .
This will enable much more flexibility for businesses which otherwise may have had parking restrictions in place outside their premises . ''
Cllr Nick Adams-King added : `` Currently , Test Valley Borough Council enforces on-street parking on behalf of Hampshire County Council ( the highways authority ) .
`` From the 1st April this arrangement comes to an end .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from County that they will similarly relax these restrictions until the end of the coronavirus crisis .
`` Please be sensible , if you park on double yellow lines do so for only as long as it takes to collect your take away , and please ensure you are not blocking the road while doing so . ''
A number of businesses in Romsey and the surrounding villages are operating take out services amid the Coronavirus , and need space for customers to pick up their food .
Test Valley Borough Council has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Hampshire County Council is set to take over Test Valley Borough Council 's parking responsibilities across the borough .
Test Valley Borough Councillor , John Parker , previously said : `` They are planning to make various changes to the controlled parking areas including increasing the cost of a resident 's parking permit from £15 to £30 this year and subsequently up to £50 .
`` They will also be moving from paper parking permits to electronic ones and changing the rules about visitor parking permits .
`` At this stage these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feeling that they are likely to be taken forward unless there is a concerted campaign to the contrary . ''

Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) has confirmed to waive loading rules outside businesses that are now operating take away services, providing they are not causing obstruction.
Councillor Nick Adams-King, who is Deputy Leader of TVBC, has put forward this motion to help business across the district during the Covid-19 crisis.
He has urged residents to "be sensible" while collecting a takeaway.
He said: "I have this morning arranged with the parking enforcement team in Test Valley to ALLOW loading outside businesses that are now operating a take away/food delivery service, providing they are not causing an obstruction or are parked in a disabled parking space.
This will enable much more flexibility for businesses which otherwise may have had parking restrictions in place outside their premises."
Cllr Nick Adams-King added: "Currently, Test Valley Borough Council enforces on-street parking on behalf of Hampshire County Council (the highways authority).
"From the 1st April this arrangement comes to an end.
"I have, however, received an undertaking from County that they will similarly relax these restrictions until the end of the coronavirus crisis.
"Please be sensible, if you park on double yellow lines do so for only as long as it takes to collect your take away, and please ensure you are not blocking the road while doing so."
A number of businesses in Romsey and the surrounding villages are operating take out services amid the Coronavirus, and need space for customers to pick up their food.
Test Valley Borough Council has been contacted for comment.
This comes as Hampshire County Council is set to take over Test Valley Borough Council's parking responsibilities across the borough.
Test Valley Borough Councillor, John Parker, previously said: "They are planning to make various changes to the controlled parking areas including increasing the cost of a resident's parking permit from £15 to £30 this year and subsequently up to £50.
"They will also be moving from paper parking permits to electronic ones and changing the rules about visitor parking permits.
"At this stage these are only proposals but I get the feeling that they are likely to be taken forward unless there is a concerted campaign to the contrary."


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Hampshire recycling centres to close today to tackle coronavirus outbreak

ALL Hampshire recycling centres are to be closed today to help tackle the coronavirus outbreak .
Following the Prime Minister 's announcement last night , Hampshire County Council has decided to close all Household Waste Recycling Centres ( HWRC ) until further notice .
Yesterday , in a Tweet , the council said that due to `` a huge increase in the number of people '' visiting Hampshire ’ s HWRC they had to introduce restrictions to allow sites to remain open and operate safely .
But this morning , the council announced that all sites will be closing today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new restrictions last night , describing the UK coronavirus as `` the biggest threat this country has faced for decades '' .
Due to the new restrictions , people will only be allowed to leave their house for ; shopping for basic necessities , as infrequently as possible ; one form of exercise a day - for example a run , walk , or cycle , alone or with members of their household ; any medical need , to provide care or to help a vulnerable person ; and travelling to and from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ absolutely necessary and can not be done from home

Following the Prime Minister's announcement last night, Hampshire County Council has decided to close all Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRC) until further notice.
Yesterday, in a Tweet, the council said that due to "a huge increase in the number of people" visiting Hampshire’s HWRC they had to introduce restrictions to allow sites to remain open and operate safely.
But this morning, the council announced that all sites will be closing today.
It comes after Boris Johnson announced new restrictions last night, describing the UK coronavirus as "the biggest threat this country has faced for decades".
Due to the new restrictions, people will only be allowed to leave their house for; shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible; one form of exercise a day - for example a run, walk, or cycle, alone or with members of their household; any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person; and travelling to and from work, but only where it is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Coronavirus: Thousands of pounds raised to support NHS heroes

THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised to support NHS staff in Southampton .
A total of £8,573 has been raised in just over three days to support NHS staff who work at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust ( UHS ) .
It comes as last Friday Southampton Hospitals Charity launched a campaign following an increased demand for services and frontline staff at UHS due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The news also follows the # ThereWithYou campaign which has seen local newspapers across the country publishing the same frontpage on Friday to support residents and commit to shine a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Now Catherine Jordan , from Southampton Hospitals Charity , said : “ We have been overwhelmed by the support shown from the community , and especially The Echo readers .
We ’ ve raised nearly £10,000 and this is going to make a big impact on our initiatives to support staff wellbeing .
Plans are currently underway to furnish a safe space for staff to receive the support they need , be that mental or physical.
” As previously reported , details of how the money will be spent are still being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they need the most .
But charity bosses had previously said that part of the money raised will be spent on staff rehydration stations across the hospitals in the city to provide staff with tea and coffee .
Ms Jordan added : “ As the COVID-19 crisis develops , we know that more of our staff will require our help , so we are continuing to do everything in our power to support them in any way we can .
There is still so much to do as healthcare never stops , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previously said part of the money will be used to help where the need is greatest as it arises .
A target for the fundraising campaign has not been set .
Charity bosses had previously said they understand this is a difficult situation for the community and it would be difficult to set a target .
The initiative is aimed at boosting morale and support the mental health and wellbeing of the frontline NHS staff who are caring for Covid-19 patients .
To donate visit www.southamptonhospitalscharity.org/NHSheroes or text NHSHEROES 3 to 70460 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to donate £5 ; NHSHEROES 10 to 70460 to donate £10 .

A total of £8,573 has been raised in just over three days to support NHS staff who work at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS).
It comes as last Friday Southampton Hospitals Charity launched a campaign following an increased demand for services and frontline staff at UHS due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The news also follows the #ThereWithYou campaign which has seen local newspapers across the country publishing the same frontpage on Friday to support residents and commit to shine a light on unsung heroes in local communities.
Now Catherine Jordan, from Southampton Hospitals Charity, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the support shown from the community, and especially The Echo readers. We’ve raised nearly £10,000 and this is going to make a big impact on our initiatives to support staff wellbeing. Plans are currently underway to furnish a safe space for staff to receive the support they need, be that mental or physical.”
As previously reported, details of how the money will be spent are still being finalised as staff members are asked what they need the most.
But charity bosses had previously said that part of the money raised will be spent on staff rehydration stations across the hospitals in the city to provide staff with tea and coffee.
Ms Jordan added: “As the COVID-19 crisis develops, we know that more of our staff will require our help, so we are continuing to do everything in our power to support them in any way we can. There is still so much to do as healthcare never stops, and neither will we.”
Ms Jordan had previously said part of the money will be used to help where the need is greatest as it arises.
A target for the fundraising campaign has not been set. Charity bosses had previously said they understand this is a difficult situation for the community and it would be difficult to set a target.
The initiative is aimed at boosting morale and support the mental health and wellbeing of the frontline NHS staff who are caring for Covid-19 patients.
To donate visit www.southamptonhospitalscharity.org/NHSheroes or text NHSHEROES 3 to 70460 to donate £3; NHSHEROES 5 to 70460 to donate £5; NHSHEROES 10 to 70460 to donate £10.


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Warning issued as crime gangs start coronavirus scams

HAMPSHIRE residents are being warning that organised crime groups may try and exploit the coronavirus outbreak .
The National Crime Agency ( NCA ) announced earlier this week that crime groups could use the pandemic to target vulnerable people .
Assessment carried out by the NCA have revealed a number of issues that criminals are already looking to exploit .
Cyber-crime investigators have seen instances of coronavirus-themed malicious apps and websites , as well as email phishing attacks aimed at stealing personal and financial information .
The NCA ’ s National Cyber Crime Unit is advising people to be `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information relating to the pandemic and to ensure they are following online safety advice which can be found on the National Cyber Security Centre website .
Steve Rodhouse , NCA Director General ( operations ) , said : “ Our mission in leading the fight against serious and organized crime has never been more important , and our work continues .
“ We recognise that the Covid-19 outbreak may provide opportunities for criminals , and we are monitoring intelligence and crime trends to ensure that we , and the whole law enforcement system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police have issued an alert regarding fraudsters using the outbreak to facilitate fraud and cyber-crime .
Reported cases include criminals posing as health officials in an attempt to get victims to disclose personal information .
There have also been cases of criminal networks exploiting demand for certain coronavirus-related products .
One such incident saw a consignment of suspected fake Covid-19 test kits sent from the UK seized by US border officials in Los Angeles .
A man was arrested in Sussex for attempting to send 60 more fake treatment kits to France , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK , and has since been charged .
As schools close , the agency is increasing its work with partners to bolster child safeguarding and online safety education .
There is a risk of increased offending as people spend more time online and indoors , and the NCA is appealing to parents and carers to visit the Thinkuknow educational website for advice about keeping children and young people safe .
While travel restrictions are impacting the levels of traffic passing through the UK border , only this week a seizure of half-a-tonne @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Dover , leading NCA officers to charge a man with attempted importation .

The National Crime Agency (NCA) announced earlier this week that crime groups could use the pandemic to target vulnerable people.
Assessment carried out by the NCA have revealed a number of issues that criminals are already looking to exploit.
Cyber-crime investigators have seen instances of coronavirus-themed malicious apps and websites, as well as email phishing attacks aimed at stealing personal and financial information.
The NCA’s National Cyber Crime Unit is advising people to be "extra vigilant" when seeking out online information relating to the pandemic and to ensure they are following online safety advice which can be found on the National Cyber Security Centre website.
Steve Rodhouse, NCA Director General (operations), said: “Our mission in leading the fight against serious and organized crime has never been more important, and our work continues.
“We recognise that the Covid-19 outbreak may provide opportunities for criminals, and we are monitoring intelligence and crime trends to ensure that we, and the whole law enforcement system, can react as needed.”
London Police have issued an alert regarding fraudsters using the outbreak to facilitate fraud and cyber-crime.
Reported cases include criminals posing as health officials in an attempt to get victims to disclose personal information.
There have also been cases of criminal networks exploiting demand for certain coronavirus-related products.
One such incident saw a consignment of suspected fake Covid-19 test kits sent from the UK seized by US border officials in Los Angeles.
A man was arrested in Sussex for attempting to send 60 more fake treatment kits to France, the US, and other parts of the UK, and has since been charged.
As schools close, the agency is increasing its work with partners to bolster child safeguarding and online safety education.
There is a risk of increased offending as people spend more time online and indoors, and the NCA is appealing to parents and carers to visit the Thinkuknow educational website for advice about keeping children and young people safe.
While travel restrictions are impacting the levels of traffic passing through the UK border, only this week a seizure of half-a-tonne of cocaine was made by Border Force at Dover, leading NCA officers to charge a man with attempted importation.


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Itchen Bridge toll SCRAPPED to reduce spread of coronavirus

THE toll on a Southampton bridge has been scrapped to reduce the spread of coronavirus .
Councillors have announced that the Itchen Bridge will be free for everyone to cross from 7pm today .
It currently costs cars , and small vans 70p to cross the bridge and 80p at peak times .
Other measures have also been put into place by Southampton City Council , which also aims to support key workers in the city .
Permit parking restrictions will also not be enforced in Resident Parking Zones one to 18 , 20 , 22 and 23 , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The HWRC at Millbrook , the Civic Centre , the cash office and gateway , play parks , public toilets and cafes that were offering take-away in parks to the public have also been closed .
Non-urgent housing repairs will stop but emergency repair services will be maintained .
Leader of the Council Christopher Hammond said : “ We all need to do everything we can to reduce the spread of the coronavirus .
Which is why we ’ re supporting the government decision to restrict movement and social interaction by closing our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rest assured our essential public services will continue and our priority remains looking after the most vulnerable . ''
`` I ’ d urge all our residents to adhere to the lockdown and follow the Government ’ s advice .
`` Southampton has faced many challenges in the past .
But we ’ ve always come out the other side stronger by working together and looking out for each other .
This time will be no different . ''

Councillors have announced that the Itchen Bridge will be free for everyone to cross from 7pm today.
It currently costs cars, and small vans 70p to cross the bridge and 80p at peak times.
Prices will be lifted for the next three weeks, when the council will review the costs.
Other measures have also been put into place by Southampton City Council, which also aims to support key workers in the city.
Permit parking restrictions will also not be enforced in Resident Parking Zones one to 18, 20, 22 and 23, which will be reviewed on April 30.
The HWRC at Millbrook, the Civic Centre, the cash office and gateway, play parks, public toilets and cafes that were offering take-away in parks to the public have also been closed.
Non-urgent housing repairs will stop but emergency repair services will be maintained.
Leader of the Council Christopher Hammond said: “We all need to do everything we can to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Which is why we’re supporting the government decision to restrict movement and social interaction by closing our buildings and stopping non-essential services.
"Rest assured our essential public services will continue and our priority remains looking after the most vulnerable."
"I’d urge all our residents to adhere to the lockdown and follow the Government’s advice.
"Southampton has faced many challenges in the past. But we’ve always come out the other side stronger by working together and looking out for each other. This time will be no different."


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Police arrest man after Southampton appeal

POLICE have arrested a man wanted in connection with a string of offences .
Officers have arrested a man after @ @ @ @ @ find Rashpal Sanghera .
The man was wanted for failing to appear at Southampton Magistrates @ @ @ @ @ he was due for trial on a charge of sexual assault and then failing to @ @ @ @ @ on March 16 , having been found guilty in his absence .
He was also @ @ @ @ @ at Southampton Magistrates Court on March 16where he was due to face two charges of @ @ @ @ @ proportions of specified controlled drugs above the specified limits .
As well as this , @ @ @ @ @ burglary on January 17 , a theft on January 17 , a theft on January @ @ @ @ @ February 7 and a robbery on February 1 .

Officers have arrested a man after an appeal for help to find Rashpal Sanghera.
The man was wanted for failing to appear at Southampton Magistrates Court on February 19 where he was due for trial on a charge of sexual assault and then failing to appear at the sentence hearing on March 16, having been found guilty in his absence.
He was also wanted for failing to appear at Southampton Magistrates Court on March 16where he was due to face two charges of driving a motor vehicle with proportions of specified controlled drugs above the specified limits.
As well as this, he was wanted regarding a burglary on January 17, a theft on January 17, a theft on January 27, a theft on February 7 and a robbery on February 1.


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Westquay and the Marlands in Southampton closed due to coronavirus outbreak

SOUTHAMPTON 'S shopping centres have offically closed their doors to the public amid the UK coronavirus outbreak .
Westquay Shopping Centre and The Marlands Shopping Centre closed their doors this morning following the Prime Minister 's announcement last night .
Boris Johnson announced last night that all non-essential shops are to close from this morning except for essential businesses such as food stores and pharmacies .
Due to the new restrictions , people will only be allowed to leave their house for ; shopping for basic necessities , as infrequently as possible ; one form of exercise a day - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or cycle , alone or with members of their household ; any medical need , to provide care or to help a vulnerable person ; and travelling to and from work , but only where it is absolutely necessary and can not be done from home .
In Westquay , the M & S food hall will remain open to the public , but all other shops , cafes , and restaurants will be closed until further notice .
A statement on the Westquay Facebook page read : `` Let 's do the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of COVID-19 .
`` Think of others , be kind and reach out to any friends and family that may need your help .
We 'll be doing the same . ''
In The Marlands , One Below , Grapetree and Savers will fall within the essential stores category and will be open but their trading hours may be changed .
In a Facebook post , the centre said : `` Our site teams and retailers are working hard to help the local community , and we ask that visitors shop sensitively and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work together in order to keep safe and help alleviate the spread of COVID-19 . ''
It comes just days after Boris Johnson advised that all bars , pubs , restaurants , cafes , cinemas , gyms and theatres should close amid the coronavirus outbreak .
In Southampton , huge names closed their doors to the public over the weekend to help tackle social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 .
Stores such as TKMaxx , River Island , Victoria 's Secret , Foot Locker and Urban Outfitters were closed with signs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain shut until further notice .
Cafes such as Pret A Manger and Starbucks were also closed as well as bars and pubs such as Yates , Scholar 's Arms , and Grumpy Monkey .

Westquay Shopping Centre and The Marlands Shopping Centre closed their doors this morning following the Prime Minister's announcement last night.
Boris Johnson announced last night that all non-essential shops are to close from this morning except for essential businesses such as food stores and pharmacies.
Due to the new restrictions, people will only be allowed to leave their house for; shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible; one form of exercise a day - for example a run, walk, or cycle, alone or with members of their household; any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person; and travelling to and from work, but only where it is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home.
In Westquay, the M&S food hall will remain open to the public, but all other shops, cafes, and restaurants will be closed until further notice.
A statement on the Westquay Facebook page read: "Let's do the right thing to help alleviate the spread of COVID-19.
"Think of others, be kind and reach out to any friends and family that may need your help. We'll be doing the same."
In The Marlands, One Below, Grapetree and Savers will fall within the essential stores category and will be open but their trading hours may be changed.
In a Facebook post, the centre said: "Our site teams and retailers are working hard to help the local community, and we ask that visitors shop sensitively and respectfully.
"We all need to work together in order to keep safe and help alleviate the spread of COVID-19."
It comes just days after Boris Johnson advised that all bars, pubs, restaurants, cafes, cinemas, gyms and theatres should close amid the coronavirus outbreak.
In Southampton, huge names closed their doors to the public over the weekend to help tackle social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Stores such as TKMaxx, River Island, Victoria's Secret, Foot Locker and Urban Outfitters were closed with signs in the window explaining that they shall remain shut until further notice.
Cafes such as Pret A Manger and Starbucks were also closed as well as bars and pubs such as Yates, Scholar's Arms, and Grumpy Monkey.


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Coronavirus: BBC Radio presenter shocked by 'irresponsible' caller

A HAMPSHIRE radio presenter has been praised after dealing with an astonishing call from a listener who said they would die for a day at the beach .
Following a call to BBC Radio Solent , Pat Sissons dealt with a listener named `` Chris '' who seemed to not worry about the Coronavirus .
The 75-year-old even said her age group do not care if they get the virus because they have `` had their lives '' .
The full conversation is as follows : Chris said : `` Why are you so worried about this virus ?
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pat replied : `` Because if I get it , I ’ ll pass it on to other people . ''
Chris then said well that is too bad , in which pat questioned her reply .
She added : `` I don ’ t care whether we have a lockdown or not I hope we don ’ t – but if you ’ re going to get it you ’ ll get it anyway . ''
Pat said `` that is nonsense Chris '' and she said : `` No it isn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up all winter and we have had the most glorious weekend weather for ages and you want to stop people from going out ? ''
The Radio Solent presenter went on to ask where Chris was at the weekend .
Chris said : `` I went shopping on Saturday , then I went to Stokes Bay to have a walk along the front and sat on the beach for a while because it was so beautiful , unfortunately , my husband couldn ’ t come with me because he is recovering from a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cemeteries in Fair Oak and Eastleigh to lay flowers on our mothers ' grave and then we called in to see a friend . ''
Shocked Pat said : `` You called in to see a friend ? ''
Chris said that her friend did n't mind at all .
Pat asked how old Chris ' friend was , in which she said 78 .
He slammed the caller and said , `` you are irresponsible for going to see your friend '' .
Pat said : `` I am not causing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you are flouting . ''
Chris replied : `` No the government of stupid and Boris Johnson is an idiot - I won ’ t even go there . ''
Pat said : `` Chris , I sincerely hope you are wrong .
`` You went round all those places in the shops where we know people are not staying apart and then you went and saw your 78-year-old friend , you are irresponsible . ''
Chris then called Pat a `` frightened man '' and asked why he was so worried about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
Pat said : `` Because the person I pass it to might not , your 78-year-old friend might not . ''
Pat replied : `` You might not . ''
Chris said : `` If we get it we don ’ t actually care , we have had our lives so stuff it . ''
Pat then questioned Chris and said `` so you 're happy to die for a day on the beach ? ''
.
Chris replied `` yes '' and the presenter then hung up on the caller @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said `` I ca n't deal with anymore of that '' .
Now , the radio presenter has received praise for how he dealt with the caller .
Tristan Pascoe , a colleague of Pat said on Twitter : `` Well done my friend for calling out this utterly ignorant and selfish caller . ''
Other tweets in reply to the conversation said : It comes just hours after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said people would only be allowed to leave their homes for very limited purposes .
People are now only entitled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Travelling to work only when absolutely necessary .

Following a call to BBC Radio Solent, Pat Sissons dealt with a listener named "Chris" who seemed to not worry about the Coronavirus.
The 75-year-old even said her age group do not care if they get the virus because they have "had their lives".
The full conversation is as follows:
Chris said: "Why are you so worried about this virus? I can’t believe it."
Pat replied: "Because if I get it, I’ll pass it on to other people."
Chris then said well that is too bad, in which pat questioned her reply.
She added: "I don’t care whether we have a lockdown or not I hope we don’t – but if you’re going to get it you’ll get it anyway."
Pat said "that is nonsense Chris" and she said: "No it isn’t. People have been cooped up all winter and we have had the most glorious weekend weather for ages and you want to stop people from going out?"
He has the patience of a saint. — PirateOfMensPants (@NotPomp) March 24, 2020
The Radio Solent presenter went on to ask where Chris was at the weekend.
Chris said: "I went shopping on Saturday, then I went to Stokes Bay to have a walk along the front and sat on the beach for a while because it was so beautiful, unfortunately, my husband couldn’t come with me because he is recovering from a stroke.
"Yesterday we went to the cemeteries in Fair Oak and Eastleigh to lay flowers on our mothers' grave and then we called in to see a friend."
Shocked Pat said: "You called in to see a friend?"
Chris said that her friend didn't mind at all.
Pat asked how old Chris' friend was, in which she said 78.
He slammed the caller and said, "you are irresponsible for going to see your friend".
Chris then claimed Pat was causing panic.
Pat said: "I am not causing panic, this is the government advice you are flouting."
Chris replied: "No the government of stupid and Boris Johnson is an idiot - I won’t even go there."
Pat said: "Chris, I sincerely hope you are wrong.
"You went round all those places in the shops where we know people are not staying apart and then you went and saw your 78-year-old friend, you are irresponsible."
Chris then called Pat a "frightened man" and asked why he was so worried about it since he would "survive it".
Pat said: "Because the person I pass it to might not, your 78-year-old friend might not."
Chris said: "I'm 75."
Pat replied: "You might not."
Chris said: "If we get it we don’t actually care, we have had our lives so stuff it."
Pat then questioned Chris and said "so you're happy to die for a day on the beach?".
Chris replied "yes" and the presenter then hung up on the caller.
He apologised to his listeners and said "I can't deal with anymore of that".
Now, the radio presenter has received praise for how he dealt with the caller.
Tristan Pascoe, a colleague of Pat said on Twitter: "Well done my friend for calling out this utterly ignorant and selfish caller."
Other tweets in reply to the conversation said:
I'm a boomer and this woman is totally irresponsible. It's because of people like her we're now in a lockdown, but please don't tar us all with the same brush. I'm 70 and very worried. — Dave Kirkpatrick (@davek1049) March 24, 2020
"We've had our lives!" old lady decides she can condemn everyone else her age to death because she's inconvenienced — Thibaut Nicodème (@TalysAlankil) March 24, 2020
It comes just hours after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said people would only be allowed to leave their homes for very limited purposes.
People are now only entitled to leave their property for:


thedailyecho--2020-03-24--Matt Hancock announces new temporary NHS hospital to open with two wards for people with coronavirus

A TEMPORARY NHS hospital will be opened next week with for 4,000 people who have coronavirus .
With each ward able to care for 2,000 people , health secretary Matt Hancock announced the news earlier today in a bid to tackle the virus outbreak .
It comes as 8,077 confirmed cases of coronavirus have hit the UK after people were urged to stay in their homes on Monday night .
People in the UK are able to leave their homes for one form of exercise a day , to buy food and essentials , to care for a vulnerable person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work .
He said at the daily government coronavirus meeting : `` I can announce today that we will next week open a new hospital - a temporary hospital - the NHS Nightingale Hospital at the Excel Centre in London .
`` The NHS Nightingale Hospital will comprise two wards each of 2,000 people .
`` With the help of the military and with NHS clinicians , we will make sure that we have the capacity that we need so that everyone can get the support they need .
`` But no matter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unless we slow the spread of this virus , then as we have seen , those numbers will continue to rise .
`` That 's why it 's so important that everyone follows the advice and stays at home . ''

With each ward able to care for 2,000 people, health secretary Matt Hancock announced the news earlier today in a bid to tackle the virus outbreak.
It comes as 8,077 confirmed cases of coronavirus have hit the UK after people were urged to stay in their homes on Monday night.
People in the UK are able to leave their homes for one form of exercise a day, to buy food and essentials, to care for a vulnerable person or for essential travel to and from work.
He said at the daily government coronavirus meeting: "I can announce today that we will next week open a new hospital - a temporary hospital - the NHS Nightingale Hospital at the Excel Centre in London.
"The NHS Nightingale Hospital will comprise two wards each of 2,000 people.
"With the help of the military and with NHS clinicians, we will make sure that we have the capacity that we need so that everyone can get the support they need.
"But no matter how big we grow the NHS, unless we slow the spread of this virus, then as we have seen, those numbers will continue to rise.
"That's why it's so important that everyone follows the advice and stays at home."


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Prince Charles tests positive for coronavirus

The Prince of Wales has tested positive for coronavirus and is displaying mild symptoms “ but otherwise remains in good health ” , Clarence House has said .
“ He has been displaying mild symptoms but otherwise remains in good health and has been working from home throughout the last few days as usual .
“ The Duchess of Cornwall has also been tested but does not have the virus .
In accordance with Government and medical advice , the Prince and the Duchess are now self-isolating at home in Scotland .
“ The tests were carried out by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criteria required for testing .
“ It is not possible to ascertain from whom the Prince caught the virus owing to the high number of engagements he carried out in his public role during recent weeks.
” Charles ’ s last public engagement was on March 12 , but he did have a number of private meetings with Highgrove and Duchy individuals , all of whom have been made aware .
A source said his doctor ’ s most conservative estimate was that the prince was contagious on March 13 .
They added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since before March 13 .
A small number of people living and working at Birkhall are remaining at the residence and self-isolating .

“He has been displaying mild symptoms but otherwise remains in good health and has been working from home throughout the last few days as usual.
“The Duchess of Cornwall has also been tested but does not have the virus. In accordance with Government and medical advice, the Prince and the Duchess are now self-isolating at home in Scotland.
“The tests were carried out by the NHS in Aberdeenshire where they met the criteria required for testing.
“It is not possible to ascertain from whom the Prince caught the virus owing to the high number of engagements he carried out in his public role during recent weeks.”
Charles’s last public engagement was on March 12, but he did have a number of private meetings with Highgrove and Duchy individuals, all of whom have been made aware.
A source said his doctor’s most conservative estimate was that the prince was contagious on March 13.
They added that Charles has not seen the Queen since before March 13.
A small number of people living and working at Birkhall are remaining at the residence and self-isolating.


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Calls to halt redundancies at Hampshire County Council

COUNTY bosses have been urged to halt redundancies and disciplinary actions against employees calling in sick .
Unison is calling on Hampshire County Council to put redundancies on hold and ensure that employees calling in sick in the coming weeks will not face disciplinary procedures and sanctions .
The news comes as last year the local authority approved plans to save £80m by 2021 in a move that put more than 220 jobs at risk .
Now Hampshire Unison branch , which represents county council employees , is urging the authority to make a U-turn amid claims that the council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus outbreak .
Hampshire Unison branch secretary Callum Williamson said : “ The council wants to continue with ‘ business as usual ’ but these are anything but usual times .
Staff may quickly lose confidence in the council unless they do the right thing and put an immediate end to all non-urgent council and school processes.
” He explained that some Hampshire schools could also face cuts due to a reduction in funding but the names of the schools that could be affected has not been disclosed .
Mr Williamson added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consult staff and service users , over changes which could see people lose their jobs , at a time when people are unable to meet in person .
`` This is not what social responsibility in a time of national crisis looks like , and is the last thing staff need at a time when everyone is trying to protect and hold communities together .
`` Local government workers are at the front line of the response to Covid 19 , and they should be treated accordingly.
” He is also urging the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he believes that employees feeling unwell for reasons not related to Covid-19 could continue to go to work as they fear there could be repercussions in the future due to the impact the coronavirus could have on employers .
“ No-one should get sanctioned from their employer for being ill at a time when there ’ s a public health emergency .
`` We don ’ t know what situation we are going to be in .
We think it is inappropriate that people have to try to protect their jobs at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .
The county council has been approached for comment but has yet been unable to provide one .

Unison is calling on Hampshire County Council to put redundancies on hold and ensure that employees calling in sick in the coming weeks will not face disciplinary procedures and sanctions.
The news comes as last year the local authority approved plans to save £80m by 2021 in a move that put more than 220 jobs at risk.
Now Hampshire Unison branch, which represents county council employees, is urging the authority to make a U-turn amid claims that the council intends to continue with planned redundancies despite the coronavirus outbreak.
Hampshire Unison branch secretary Callum Williamson said: “The council wants to continue with ‘business as usual’ but these are anything but usual times. Staff may quickly lose confidence in the council unless they do the right thing and put an immediate end to all non-urgent council and school processes.”
He explained that some Hampshire schools could also face cuts due to a reduction in funding but the names of the schools that could be affected has not been disclosed.
Mr Williamson added: “The council cannot meaningfully consult staff and service users, over changes which could see people lose their jobs, at a time when people are unable to meet in person.
"This is not what social responsibility in a time of national crisis looks like, and is the last thing staff need at a time when everyone is trying to protect and hold communities together.
"Local government workers are at the front line of the response to Covid 19, and they should be treated accordingly.”
He is also urging the county council to halt sickness-related sanctions as he believes that employees feeling unwell for reasons not related to Covid-19 could continue to go to work as they fear there could be repercussions in the future due to the impact the coronavirus could have on employers.
“No-one should get sanctioned from their employer for being ill at a time when there’s a public health emergency.
"We don’t know what situation we are going to be in. We think it is inappropriate that people have to try to protect their jobs at a time like this,” Mr Williamson added.
The county council has been approached for comment but has yet been unable to provide one.


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Calls to book hotel beds for homeless people in Southampton to self-isolate

CHARITIES have urged the Government to block-book hotel beds for homeless people to self-isolate from the coronavirus – a move that could affect more than one hundred Southampton families .
Doing so could “ potentially save thousands of lives ” throughout the country , according to the Museum of Homelessness , as it warned shared emergency shelters could become “ death traps ” .
Between July and September last year , 195 households identified as homeless in Southampton , Ministry of Housing , Communities and Local Government data shows – a 101 percent increase on the same period in 2018 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homeless households rose by 17 percent over the year .
Matt Downie , director of policy at Crisis , said homeless people are more susceptible to catching and spreading Covid-19 , and are more vulnerable to the worst effects of it .
He added : “ Not just because the advice is impossible if you don ’ t have anywhere to live , but also the underlying health needs of the homeless making them more vulnerable – you are three times more likely to have a respiratory illness.
” He said that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” to ensure people experiencing homelessness have access to self-contained accommodation with private bathrooms .
The Government has already pledged £3.2 million in emergency support for rough sleepers during the outbreak – with 21 percent going to the South East .
Communities secretary Robert Jenrick said : “ Public safety and protecting the most vulnerable people in society from coronavirus is this government ’ s top priority .
“ The initial funding that I ’ ve announced will ensure councils are able to put emergency measures in place to help some of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ successfully self-isolate.
” However , charities are urging further action , with Crisis calling for an increase to housing benefits and quicker payment of Universal Credit to prevent more people from becoming homeless .
In addition to those identified as being homeless in Southampton , a further 105 households were threatened with homelessness within 56 days during the third quarter of 2019 .
Across England , 34,940 people were identified as homeless , with a further 36,640 at risk .
Matt Turtle , co-founder of campaign group the Museum of Homelessness , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homeless as a result of the coronavirus is going to increase , as they become unable to buy food or pay their rent .
He said it was really difficult to keep people in shared spaces if anyone shows symptoms , and that finding a solution could “ potentially save thousands of people ’ s lives ” .
“ If they are staying together in hostels it could literally be like a death trap to them because they are communal , ” he added .
“ Even if one of them has symptoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they are exposed to more and more of the virus.
” An MHCLG spokeswoman said the Homelessness Reduction Act had allowed people to access the support they need and that recent rough sleeping statistics showed those sleeping on the streets fell for the second year running .
She added : “ We are providing £492 million to tackle rough sleeping and homelessness this year to stop people from becoming homeless and ensuring those that are can rebuild their lives with a roof over their head .
”

Doing so could “potentially save thousands of lives” throughout the country, according to the Museum of Homelessness, as it warned shared emergency shelters could become “death traps”.
Between July and September last year, 195 households identified as homeless in Southampton, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government data shows – a 101 percent increase on the same period in 2018.
Across England, the number of homeless households rose by 17 percent over the year.
Matt Downie, director of policy at Crisis, said homeless people are more susceptible to catching and spreading Covid-19, and are more vulnerable to the worst effects of it.
He added: “Not just because the advice is impossible if you don’t have anywhere to live, but also the underlying health needs of the homeless making them more vulnerable – you are three times more likely to have a respiratory illness.”
He said that it was now a “race against time” to ensure people experiencing homelessness have access to self-contained accommodation with private bathrooms.
The Government has already pledged £3.2 million in emergency support for rough sleepers during the outbreak – with 21 percent going to the South East.
Communities secretary Robert Jenrick said: “Public safety and protecting the most vulnerable people in society from coronavirus is this government’s top priority.
“The initial funding that I’ve announced will ensure councils are able to put emergency measures in place to help some of the most vulnerable people in our society to successfully self-isolate.”
However, charities are urging further action, with Crisis calling for an increase to housing benefits and quicker payment of Universal Credit to prevent more people from becoming homeless.
In addition to those identified as being homeless in Southampton, a further 105 households were threatened with homelessness within 56 days during the third quarter of 2019.
Across England, 34,940 people were identified as homeless, with a further 36,640 at risk.
Matt Turtle, co-founder of campaign group the Museum of Homelessness, said the number of people who risk becoming homeless as a result of the coronavirus is going to increase, as they become unable to buy food or pay their rent.
He said it was really difficult to keep people in shared spaces if anyone shows symptoms, and that finding a solution could “potentially save thousands of people’s lives”.
“If they are staying together in hostels it could literally be like a death trap to them because they are communal,” he added.
“Even if one of them has symptoms it can drag everyone else down – they are exposed to more and more of the virus.”
An MHCLG spokeswoman said the Homelessness Reduction Act had allowed people to access the support they need and that recent rough sleeping statistics showed those sleeping on the streets fell for the second year running.
She added: “We are providing £492 million to tackle rough sleeping and homelessness this year to stop people from becoming homeless and ensuring those that are can rebuild their lives with a roof over their head.”


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Tributes to Brooke Leavey, 11, who died of rare form of cancer

TRIBUTES have been paid to a young Hampshire girl who has died after battling a rare form of cancer .
Brooke Leavey , 11 , passed away with her parents by her side at their home in Hedge End on March 14 .
Last April , her parents Daniel and Lisa received the news that Brooke had an inoperable tumour on her brain stem .
Brooke received treatment at Southampton General Hospital and then intensive radiotherapy to combat the aggressive cancer known as DIPG .
Amongst other events , pupils from Berrywood School raised more than £3,500 by throwing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while a “ Do it for Brooke ” campaign raised over £168,584 .
This meant Brooke , who loved singing with sister Amelia , could receive care in the USA unavailable in Britain .
However , despite medical treatment , the little girl succumbed to the illness .
Brooke ’ s family and friends said in a statement : “ It is with the heaviest of hearts we need to share with you that our gorgeous Brooke has passed away .
“ She was at home , surrounded by her precious family and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , right until the end .
“ Brooke ’ s body may have failed her , but we absolutely know that her spirit will live on in everyone that knew and loved her .
Despite everything she endured , Brooke faced every day with positivity and as a family , they have managed to find joy in everything they did , despite the heartache they felt inside .
“ We are quite sure that she is already the solo in heaven ’ s choir of angels .
“ Brooke has made an unforgettable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years .
Her voice , her feisty spirit , diva hair flicks , beauty and the biggest , kindest heart is her legacy .
We now have a very important job to do ; LOVE with everything you have , LAUGH until it hurts , LET GO of things that don ’ t bring you joy .
LIVE for Brooke .
Do it for Brooke .
“ We wanted to thank you so much for all you have done , whether that be raising money , awareness or sending love , prayers or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ past 11 months .
”

Brooke Leavey, 11, passed away with her parents by her side at their home in Hedge End on March 14.
Last April, her parents Daniel and Lisa received the news that Brooke had an inoperable tumour on her brain stem.
Brooke received treatment at Southampton General Hospital and then intensive radiotherapy to combat the aggressive cancer known as DIPG.
Amongst other events, pupils from Berrywood School raised more than £3,500 by throwing a fashion show to fund specialist treatment, while a “Do it for Brooke” campaign raised over £168,584.
This meant Brooke, who loved singing with sister Amelia, could receive care in the USA unavailable in Britain.
However, despite medical treatment, the little girl succumbed to the illness.
Brooke’s family and friends said in a statement: “It is with the heaviest of hearts we need to share with you that our gorgeous Brooke has passed away.
“She was at home, surrounded by her precious family and knew exactly how much she was loved, right until the end.
“Brooke’s body may have failed her, but we absolutely know that her spirit will live on in everyone that knew and loved her. Despite everything she endured, Brooke faced every day with positivity and as a family, they have managed to find joy in everything they did, despite the heartache they felt inside.
“We are quite sure that she is already the solo in heaven’s choir of angels.
“Brooke has made an unforgettable imprint on our lives in just 11 years. Her voice, her feisty spirit, diva hair flicks, beauty and the biggest, kindest heart is her legacy. We now have a very important job to do; LOVE with everything you have, LAUGH until it hurts, LET GO of things that don’t bring you joy. LIVE for Brooke. Do it for Brooke.
“We wanted to thank you so much for all you have done, whether that be raising money, awareness or sending love, prayers or positivity to the Leavey family throughout the past 11 months.”


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--207 cases of coronavirus in Hampshire with 24 in Southampton

HAMPSHIRE has 207 confirmed cases of coronavirus , according to the latest figures published last night .
The county still @ @ @ @ @ cases in the UK .
Lambeth has the second highest number of cases by authority @ @ @ @ @ of 24 positive tests have been confirmed in Southampton .
The total number of cases @ @ @ @ @ with 422 deaths .

The county still has the highest number of cases in the UK.
Lambeth has the second highest number of cases by authority with 188.
A total of 24 positive tests have been confirmed in Southampton.
Portsmouth has 29 cases.
The total number of cases in the UK is 8,077 with 422 deaths.


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Southampton man harassed couple for money over three months

A SOUTHAMPTON man who harassed a couple for money has been handed a restraining order .
Daniel Shaun Marczylo , @ @ @ @ @ and a woman in Southampton asking for money between October 7 and January 6 .
@ @ @ @ @ Nightingale Road , Southampton , the 33-year-old assaulted a police officer Appearing at Southampton Magistrates @ @ @ @ @ guilty to one account of harassment and one account of assaulting an emergency worker by @ @ @ @ @ no fixed address , was committed to prison for 10 weeks suspended for 18 months @ @ @ @ @ banning him from contacting his victims or visiting their address for two years .
He @ @ @ @ @ £100 compensation .

Daniel Shaun Marczylo, 33, harrassed a man and a woman in Southampton asking for money between October 7 and January 6.
On January 5, on Nightingale Road, Southampton, the 33-year-old assaulted a police officer
Appearing at Southampton Magistrates' Court, he pleaded guilty to one account of harassment and one account of assaulting an emergency worker by beating.
Marczylo, of no fixed address, was committed to prison for 10 weeks suspended for 18 months and handed a restraining order banning him from contacting his victims or visiting their address for two years.
He was also ordered to pay £100 compensation.


Hampshire police

POLICE have said they are trained to deal with `` difficult and challenging situations '' after Boris Johnson announced officers would have the powers to enforce rules to crack down on coronavirus .
On Monday night , the Prime Minister announced that citizens should not leave the house unless essential amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The Government said that every citizen is instructed to comply with the new measure and the ensure this , police will now have the powers to enforce them `` through fines and dispersing gatherings where people do not comply '' .
The Hampshire Police Federation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` specific plans '' yet , they are prepared to provide a service to communities throughout the coronavirus `` crisis '' .
The Daily Echo contacted Hampshire Constabulary but they did not respond to our request .
A spokesperson from the Hampshire Police Federation said : `` We do not yet have any specific plans .
`` We will continue to police by consent and reinforce the directions from the Government .
`` By communicating with the public the importance of following the new rules until the new powers come into force on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are used to dealing with difficult and challenging situations so our members will continue to provide a service to our communities throughout this crisis . ''
It came after all non-essential shops closed yesterday except for essential businesses such as food stores and pharmacies .
Due to the new restrictions , people will only be allowed to leave their house for ; shopping for basic necessities , as infrequently as possible ; one form of exercise a day - for example a run , walk , or cycle , alone or with members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to provide care or to help a vulnerable person ; and travelling to and from work , but only where it is absolutely necessary and can not be done from home .
Now , emergency powers to tackle the coronavirus crisis are set to be backed by peers in a bid to `` buy time '' for the NHS .
Health minister Lord Bethell won cross-party support in the Lords for a wide-ranging package of measures needed to fight the pandemic .

On Monday night, the Prime Minister announced that citizens should not leave the house unless essential amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The Government said that every citizen is instructed to comply with the new measure and the ensure this, police will now have the powers to enforce them "through fines and dispersing gatherings where people do not comply".
The Hampshire Police Federation has said that although there are no "specific plans" yet, they are prepared to provide a service to communities throughout the coronavirus "crisis".
The Daily Echo contacted Hampshire Constabulary but they did not respond to our request.
A spokesperson from the Hampshire Police Federation said: "We do not yet have any specific plans.
"We will continue to police by consent and reinforce the directions from the Government.
"By communicating with the public the importance of following the new rules until the new powers come into force on Thursday 26th March.
"Police officers are used to dealing with difficult and challenging situations so our members will continue to provide a service to our communities throughout this crisis."
It came after all non-essential shops closed yesterday except for essential businesses such as food stores and pharmacies.
Due to the new restrictions, people will only be allowed to leave their house for; shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible; one form of exercise a day - for example a run, walk, or cycle, alone or with members of their household; any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person; and travelling to and from work, but only where it is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home.
Now, emergency powers to tackle the coronavirus crisis are set to be backed by peers in a bid to "buy time" for the NHS.
Health minister Lord Bethell won cross-party support in the Lords for a wide-ranging package of measures needed to fight the pandemic.


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Itchen Bridge toll SCRAPPED to reduce spread of coronavirus


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: BBC Radio presenter shocked by 'irresponsible' caller


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Oakhaven closes day hospice and puts vital fundraising events on hold

A HAMPSHIRE hospice has closed its day hospice because of the coronavirus outbreak and has also been forced to cancel a series of fundraising events .
Services provided by Oakhaven Hospice , Lymington , cost £4.8m a year but only 14 % of its budget is funded by the NHS .
The rest comes from legacies and money raised in the community .
In a statement Amanda Clapham , head of fundraising and communications at Oakhaven , outlined the impact of the pandemic on the hospice .
She said : `` This message goes out to all our wonderful supporters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who need us now , more than ever .
`` With the spread of coronavirus and the situation changing by the hour , we wish to assure you that our absolute priority is the care and commitment to our patients and their families and carers .
`` We also have a duty of care to our staff and volunteers and do not wish to compromise their safety in any way .
`` Our day hospice has sadly closed temporarily , as has the Coates Centre for education sessions and various group meetings , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with regular telephone calls and reassuring them that we remain here for them .
`` The majority of our non-clinical staff are working remotely from home .
`` Presently , our in-patient unit remains open to patients and their visitors but we are taking all precautions to minimise risk , with hand-cleansing and checking that visitors do not have any coronavirus symptoms .
`` Visitor numbers may have to be restricted for safety reasons .
`` Our community services are continuing as clinical nurse specialists and registered nursing teams are currently well placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In addition , Oakhaven Care is continuing to support clients , which is vital for patients who are isolated and in need of help . ''
But the statement says Oakhaven 's future funding is a `` serious worry '' .
It adds : `` We are currently postponing or cancelling our events between now and June .
This has serious implications as these events would otherwise provide significant income for the hospice .
`` Our charity shops will now be closed to the public .
`` We naturally understand that individuals and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
However , we will be doing everything in our power to be there for our community .
`` We hope you will kindly continue to be there for us too as we need you now - more than ever . ''

Services provided by Oakhaven Hospice, Lymington, cost £4.8m a year but only 14% of its budget is funded by the NHS. The rest comes from legacies and money raised in the community.
In a statement Amanda Clapham, head of fundraising and communications at Oakhaven, outlined the impact of the pandemic on the hospice.
She said: "This message goes out to all our wonderful supporters and to those people in our community who need us now, more than ever.
"With the spread of coronavirus and the situation changing by the hour, we wish to assure you that our absolute priority is the care and commitment to our patients and their families and carers.
"We also have a duty of care to our staff and volunteers and do not wish to compromise their safety in any way.
"Our day hospice has sadly closed temporarily, as has the Coates Centre for education sessions and various group meetings, but our team are supporting our patients with regular telephone calls and reassuring them that we remain here for them.
"The majority of our non-clinical staff are working remotely from home.
"Presently, our in-patient unit remains open to patients and their visitors but we are taking all precautions to minimise risk, with hand-cleansing and checking that visitors do not have any coronavirus symptoms.
"Visitor numbers may have to be restricted for safety reasons.
"Our community services are continuing as clinical nurse specialists and registered nursing teams are currently well placed to support patients in their homes. In addition, Oakhaven Care is continuing to support clients, which is vital for patients who are isolated and in need of help."
But the statement says Oakhaven's future funding is a "serious worry".
It adds: "We are currently postponing or cancelling our events between now and June. This has serious implications as these events would otherwise provide significant income for the hospice.
"Our charity shops will now be closed to the public.
"We naturally understand that individuals and businesses have their own concerns at this time. However, we will be doing everything in our power to be there for our community.
"We hope you will kindly continue to be there for us too as we need you now - more than ever."


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--PHOTOS: Coronavirus virus lockdown empties Southampton streets

THE coronavirus crisis means Hampshire residents ca n't leave their homes unless it is essential .
Prime Minister , Boris Johnson announced people should only leave home to exercise once a day or to travel to and from work `` where absolutely necessary '' .
In light of the new measures , Southampton 's usually busy streets are deserted .
With employees forced to work from home , there are far fewer cars on the roads .
The government 's rules mean people can only shop for essential items and fulfil any medical or care needs .
On Monday night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goods to close immediately .
The Government has said that every citizen must comply with the new measures .
Police now have the powers to enforce them `` through fines and dispersing gatherings where people do not comply '' .
Officers are patrolling the city streets ensuring people are safe .
Meanwhile , supermarkets have restricted the amount of shoppers entering at one time .
Hampshire has 207 confirmed cases of coronavirus , according to the latest figures published last night .
The county still has the highest number of cases in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's population is now living under some form of lockdown It is hoped that once the coronavirus lockdown is lifted the infection can be kept at manageable levels , an expert has said .
Professor Neil Ferguson , who is recovering from Covid-19 himself , told the Science and Technology Committee measures taken by the Government could tip the outbreak from a growing epidemic to a declining epidemic .
The director of MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis , Imperial College London , also explained there was some uncertainty , but that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then intensive care demand would “ peak in approximately two to three weeks and then decline thereafter ” .
Prof Ferguson told the committee current predictions were that the NHS would be able to cope if strict measures continued to be followed .

Prime Minister, Boris Johnson announced people should only leave home to exercise once a day or to travel to and from work "where absolutely necessary".
In light of the new measures, Southampton's usually busy streets are deserted.
With employees forced to work from home, there are far fewer cars on the roads.
The government's rules mean people can only shop for essential items and fulfil any medical or care needs.
On Monday night the PM ordered all shops selling non-essential goods to close immediately.
The Government has said that every citizen must comply with the new measures.
Police now have the powers to enforce them "through fines and dispersing gatherings where people do not comply".
Officers are patrolling the city streets ensuring people are safe.
Meanwhile, supermarkets have restricted the amount of shoppers entering at one time.
Hampshire has 207 confirmed cases of coronavirus, according to the latest figures published last night.
The county still has the highest number of cases in the UK.
A quarter of the world's population is now living under some form of lockdown
It is hoped that once the coronavirus lockdown is lifted the infection can be kept at manageable levels, an expert has said.
Professor Neil Ferguson, who is recovering from Covid-19 himself, told the Science and Technology Committee measures taken by the Government could tip the outbreak from a growing epidemic to a declining epidemic.
The director of MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, also explained there was some uncertainty, but that if current measures work as expected, then intensive care demand would “peak in approximately two to three weeks and then decline thereafter”.
Prof Ferguson told the committee current predictions were that the NHS would be able to cope if strict measures continued to be followed.


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Southampton street sings Happy Birthday to little girl stuck inside

IT was a birthday with a difference for one Southampton schoolgirl .
Sophia Thomas was expecting a quiet eighth birthday at home in Bitterne Park today as the country battles coronavirus .
But she had n't bargained on her neighbours who took to the street for a mass singalong to happy birthday in her honour .
There were neighbours on their doorsteps and others with open windows all belting out a special message for the birthday girl .
Mum Alison told the Daily Echo : `` I took her to play in the front garden as I knew from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were planning and the next minute they burst into song .
She was utterly overwhelmed , I 've never seen her go so shy !
She 's normally very sassy , but she actually fell to the floor !
`` What was going to be quite an uneventful birthday for her has turned into the best day ever . ''
Sophia had to have her party and a scheduled cinema trip cancelled in the wake of the coronavirus crisis , so her mum had put out an appeal on social media asking for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inundated with cards and colourings from friends and neighbours , but did n't expect the impromptu street performance to go viral .
Since posting the video on Facebook and Twitter Alison and husband Rob have been inundated with messages from all over the world .
The family will spend the rest of Sophia 's birthday speaking to media from as far afield as Tokyo .
`` It did n't surprise me as it 's such a friendly street .
There 's 20 houses and I could knock on any door at any time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alison added .
`` But it felt quite overwhelming and the response has been incredible .
It 's given everyone a real boost . ''

Sophia Thomas was expecting a quiet eighth birthday at home in Bitterne Park today as the country battles coronavirus.
But she hadn't bargained on her neighbours who took to the street for a mass singalong to happy birthday in her honour.
There were neighbours on their doorsteps and others with open windows all belting out a special message for the birthday girl.
Mum Alison told the Daily Echo: "I took her to play in the front garden as I knew from the street What's App group what they were planning and the next minute they burst into song. She was utterly overwhelmed, I've never seen her go so shy! She's normally very sassy, but she actually fell to the floor!
"What was going to be quite an uneventful birthday for her has turned into the best day ever."
Sophia had to have her party and a scheduled cinema trip cancelled in the wake of the coronavirus crisis, so her mum had put out an appeal on social media asking for birthday cards.
They had already been inundated with cards and colourings from friends and neighbours, but didn't expect the impromptu street performance to go viral.
Since posting the video on Facebook and Twitter Alison and husband Rob have been inundated with messages from all over the world. The family will spend the rest of Sophia's birthday speaking to media from as far afield as Tokyo.
"It didn't surprise me as it's such a friendly street. There's 20 houses and I could knock on any door at any time and ask anyone for anything," Alison added. "But it felt quite overwhelming and the response has been incredible. It's given everyone a real boost."


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Coronavirus: Boris extends thanks to NHS staff and volunteers

PRIME Minister , Boris Johnson announced today that more than 400,000 people have come forward to join the NHS “ volunteer army ” .
A Government appeal launched last night had hoped to get 250,000 over a few days .
During a conference this afternoon , Johnson reported that in just 24 hours 405,000 people responded to the call .
Volunteers will be driving medicines from pharmacies to patients and bringing patients home from hospital .
They will also be making regular phone calls to check on and support people who are staying on their own at home .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NHS Mr Johnson said he wanted to offer `` special thank you to everyone who has now volunteered to help the NHS '' .
He added : `` And to all of you , and all the former NHS staff who are coming back into the service , I say thank you on behalf of the entire country . ''
The Prime Minister confirmed that the government may introduce wartime-style legislation to outlaw profiteering during the pandemic .
Commenting on the problem , he said : `` I dislike it very much and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ profiteering , exploiting people ’ s need at a critical time , in a national emergency .
`` We are indeed looking very carefully at what is going on .
`` The Competition and Markets Authority already has various powers that it may use but are looking at the legislative framework to see what it may be necessary to do to prevent profiteering just as happened in wartime many years ago . ''
Johnson also reported that Chancellor , Rishi Sunak would be announcing measures to help self-employed people survive the global health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deaths from coronavirus in the UK has risen to 437 after further fatalities were confirmed in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland .
The total number of UK cases stands at 8,077 .
The Ministry of Justice has also reported that 19 prisoners across 10 jails have been diagnosed with the virus .
Four prison staff across four jails and three prisoner escort and custody services staff have also received positive results .

A Government appeal launched last night had hoped to get 250,000 over a few days.
During a conference this afternoon, Johnson reported that in just 24 hours 405,000 people responded to the call.
Volunteers will be driving medicines from pharmacies to patients and bringing patients home from hospital.
They will also be making regular phone calls to check on and support people who are staying on their own at home.
The scheme aims to relieve pressure on the NHS
Mr Johnson said he wanted to offer "special thank you to everyone who has now volunteered to help the NHS".
He added: "And to all of you, and all the former NHS staff who are coming back into the service, I say thank you on behalf of the entire country."
The Prime Minister confirmed that the government may introduce wartime-style legislation to outlaw profiteering during the pandemic.
Commenting on the problem, he said: "I dislike it very much and I do not want to see people profiteering, exploiting people’s need at a critical time, in a national emergency.
"We are indeed looking very carefully at what is going on.
"The Competition and Markets Authority already has various powers that it may use but are looking at the legislative framework to see what it may be necessary to do to prevent profiteering just as happened in wartime many years ago."
Johnson also reported that Chancellor, Rishi Sunak would be announcing measures to help self-employed people survive the global health crisis.
Meanwhile, the number of deaths from coronavirus in the UK has risen to 437 after further fatalities were confirmed in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The total number of UK cases stands at 8,077.
The Ministry of Justice has also reported that 19 prisoners across 10 jails have been diagnosed with the virus.
Four prison staff across four jails and three prisoner escort and custody services staff have also received positive results.


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Off-licences stay open as "essential retailers" during coronavirus pandemic

HAMPSHIRE residents can enjoy a tipple now that off-licences are classed as `` essential retailers '' allowed to stay open during the coronavirus pandemic .
The list of retailers was updated today following reports supermarkets are selling out of some beers and wines .
The list of essential retailers put together by the Cabinet Office now includes `` off-licences and licensed shops selling alcohol , including those within breweries '' .
Pubs and restaurants have been required to close under the new restrictions .
Most shops across Southampton have shut amid coronavirus fears .
High streets and shopping centres have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ British public to avoid office , pubs , travel and social contact .
Meanwhile , Britain ’ s biggest retailers are introducing stricter measures at stores to ensure that customers stay safe as they pick up essentials , while other shops are closing their doors .
Tesco and Asda both plan to limit the number of customers allowed into their shops at any given time , and introduced other new rules .
Tesco boss Dave Lewis has written to customers saying staff will draw new floor markings in the checkout areas , install @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one-way aisles .
• Off-licences and licensed shops selling alcohol , including those within breweries

The list of retailers was updated today following reports supermarkets are selling out of some beers and wines.
The list of essential retailers put together by the Cabinet Office now includes "off-licences and licensed shops selling alcohol, including those within breweries".
Pubs and restaurants have been required to close under the new restrictions.
Most shops across Southampton have shut amid coronavirus fears.
High streets and shopping centres have been deserted after Boris Johnson urged the British public to avoid office, pubs, travel and social contact.
Meanwhile, Britain’s biggest retailers are introducing stricter measures at stores to ensure that customers stay safe as they pick up essentials, while other shops are closing their doors.
Tesco and Asda both plan to limit the number of customers allowed into their shops at any given time, and introduced other new rules.
Tesco boss Dave Lewis has written to customers saying staff will draw new floor markings in the checkout areas, install protective screens on checkouts, and introduce one-way aisles.
The list of "essential retailers" includes:


thedailyecho--2020-03-25--Rashpal Sanghera pleads guilty to spate of thefts, burglaries and fraud offence

A SOUTHAMPTON man has pleaded guilty to a spate of thefts , fraud and burglary offences .
Rashpal Sanghera , appeared in Southampton Magistrates ’ Court today and pleaded guilty to three counts of theft , one count of fraud , one count of burglary and one count of driving under the influence of drugs .
The 35-year-old has also been detained for failing to appear at the same court on February 19 .
He had been due to stand trial for sexual assault and then failing to appear at the sentencing hearing on March 16 , having been found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following offences : • A theft of a charity tin from Sam ’ s Chicken Takeaway in Shirley High Street on January 17 .
• A theft of a charity tin from Moby Dick fish and chip shop in Church Street , Shirley on January 27 .
• A theft of four bottles of spirits to the value of £115 from Sainsbury ’ s in Leigh Road , Eastleigh on February 7 .
• Fraud by false representation namely using a bank card belonging to another on February 1 .
• A burglary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on February 1 where four lottery scratch cards were stolen .
• Driving under the influence of drugs on October 18 last year .
Sanghera of Lingwood Close has been remanded into custody and will next appear on Thursday , April 16 at Southampton Magistrates ’ Court for sentence on all matters .

Rashpal Sanghera, appeared in Southampton Magistrates’ Court today and pleaded guilty to three counts of theft, one count of fraud, one count of burglary and one count of driving under the influence of drugs.
The 35-year-old has also been detained for failing to appear at the same court on February 19.
He had been due to stand trial for sexual assault and then failing to appear at the sentencing hearing on March 16, having been found guilty.
The charges relate to the following offences:
• A theft of a charity tin from Sam’s Chicken Takeaway in Shirley High Street on January 17.
• A theft of a charity tin from Moby Dick fish and chip shop in Church Street, Shirley on January 27.
• A theft of four bottles of spirits to the value of £115 from Sainsbury’s in Leigh Road, Eastleigh on February 7.
• Fraud by false representation namely using a bank card belonging to another on February 1.
• A burglary at the McColls store in Bedford Place on February 1 where four lottery scratch cards were stolen.
• Driving under the influence of drugs on October 18 last year.
Sanghera of Lingwood Close has been remanded into custody and will next appear on Thursday, April 16 at Southampton Crown Court for sentence on all matters.