kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-27--National Pharmacy Association: Providers under 'enormous pressure' as demand rises

Pharmacists have asked the public to be “ patient and considerate ” when using their services following increased demand due to the coronavirus crisis .
Guidance issued by the National Pharmacy Association ( NPA ) says that providers are under “ enormous pressure ” amid an unprecedented need for advice and medicines .
Reports of rude and aggressive behaviour towards pharmacy staff are “ totally unacceptable ” , it added .
The association , which represents independent community pharmacy professionals , revealed a spike in workload for pharmacists during the Covid-19 oubtreak .
A survey of more than 1,000 members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by a third in March , while home deliveries have more than doubled – with some pharmacies reporting an increase of 300 per cent .
'Help your pharmacy help you' In response to the increased demand , the NPA is asking patients to “ help your pharmacy help you ” .
In advice issued on Friday , the association calls on pharmacy users to be “ patient and considerate ” with staff who are “ having to meet high demand for advice and medicines ” .
It asks for understanding from patients that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours to clean throughout the day , or get through a backlog of prescriptions .
The NPA is urging the public not to stockpile and only buy medicines that they and their family need “ right now ” , while recommending that regular prescriptions are ordered about a week in advance to avoid running out of current supply .
Those who have symptoms associated with Covid-19 , or are living with someone who does , are asked not to go into a pharmacy – instead , they should ask someone who is well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medicines .
The association says that as pharmacies need to prioritise the most vulnerable , the public should only request medicines to be delivered if they have no other option .
It adds that not all pharmacies operate a delivery service .
It is also asking the public to thank their local pharmacy teams – both in person and online using the hashtag # pharmacyheroes .
Chief executive Mark Lyonette said : “ Pharmacies are here for you in this crisis – but their stamina and resources aren ’ t inexhaustible .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their understanding and for helping us to continue to do our vital work on the health service front line .
“ The behaviour of that small minority of people who have been rude or aggressive to pharmacy staff is totally unacceptable and makes it even harder for pharmacies to do their vital work.
” The survey of 1,000 NPA members , carried out between March 30 and April 3 , found that the number of prescriptions dispensed rose by between 25 per cent and 35 per cent from February to March .
Phone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this period , analysis found .
All providers reported a big increase in working hours , with some requiring the hiring of locum staff to meet workload , while many pharmacies said they had experienced long queues .

Guidance issued by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) says that providers are under “enormous pressure” amid an unprecedented need for advice and medicines.
Reports of rude and aggressive behaviour towards pharmacy staff are “totally unacceptable”, it added.
The association, which represents independent community pharmacy professionals, revealed a spike in workload for pharmacists during the Covid-19 oubtreak.
A survey of more than 1,000 members found that demand for prescription medicines jumped by a third in March, while home deliveries have more than doubled – with some pharmacies reporting an increase of 300 per cent.
'Help your pharmacy help you'
In response to the increased demand, the NPA is asking patients to “help your pharmacy help you”.
In advice issued on Friday, the association calls on pharmacy users to be “patient and considerate” with staff who are “having to meet high demand for advice and medicines”.
It asks for understanding from patients that some pharmacies are operating with different opening hours to clean throughout the day, or get through a backlog of prescriptions.
The NPA is urging the public not to stockpile and only buy medicines that they and their family need “right now”, while recommending that regular prescriptions are ordered about a week in advance to avoid running out of current supply.
Those who have symptoms associated with Covid-19, or are living with someone who does, are asked not to go into a pharmacy – instead, they should ask someone who is well and outside of their household to collect medicines.
The association says that as pharmacies need to prioritise the most vulnerable, the public should only request medicines to be delivered if they have no other option. It adds that not all pharmacies operate a delivery service.
'Thank you pharmacy heroes'
It is also asking the public to thank their local pharmacy teams – both in person and online using the hashtag #pharmacyheroes.
Chief executive Mark Lyonette said: “Pharmacies are here for you in this crisis – but their stamina and resources aren’t inexhaustible.
“We want to thank the public for their understanding and for helping us to continue to do our vital work on the health service front line.
“The behaviour of that small minority of people who have been rude or aggressive to pharmacy staff is totally unacceptable and makes it even harder for pharmacies to do their vital work.”
Number of prescriptions rises
The survey of 1,000 NPA members, carried out between March 30 and April 3, found that the number of prescriptions dispensed rose by between 25 per cent and 35 per cent from February to March.
Phone calls to pharmacies more than tripled in this period, analysis found.
All providers reported a big increase in working hours, with some requiring the hiring of locum staff to meet workload, while many pharmacies said they had experienced long queues.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-27--Natwest bank issues alert for customers over fake texts scam

A bank has warned customers not to fall victim to a fake text scam in circulation .
Natwest raised the @ @ @ @ @ their Facebook page .
It reads : `` Lots of our customers have reported receiving @ @ @ @ @ you ’ ve updated your mobile number on your NatWest account and tell you to @ @ @ @ @ is incorrect .
`` The link takes you to a site where scammers will steal @ @ @ @ @ Due to sophisticated criminal technology , some scam texts are also appearing in the threads @ @ @ @ @ so # TakeFive to help us get the word out . ''
How to report @ @ @ @ @ with the banking group should forward any suspicious texts referring to NatWest to the number @ @

Natwest raised the alarm in a message on their Facebook page.
It reads: "Lots of our customers have reported receiving these texts. They say you’ve updated your mobile number on your NatWest account and tell you to click a link if this is incorrect.
"The link takes you to a site where scammers will steal your banking information.
"Due to sophisticated criminal technology, some scam texts are also appearing in the threads of our genuine texts, so #TakeFive to help us get the word out."
How to report the scam to Natwest
Customers with the banking group should forward any suspicious texts referring to NatWest to the number 88355.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--Coronavirus: Worcestershire and national news

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kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--Appeal to find missing boy from Kidderminster

A 15-YEAR-OLD boy has gone missing from the Kidderminster area .
King Charles I School student Fabian Gaj went missing @ @ @ @ @ Crescent on Monday evening ( April 27 ) and has n't been seen since .
@ @ @ @ @ for information on his whereabouts , and say it is unlike him to stay out @ @ @ @ @ phone .
He is described as having blonde hair , which is short at the @ @ @ @ @ , slim build , and approximately 5ft 7 in height .
Anyone with information can @ @ @ @ @ 101 .

Fabian Gaj went missing from his home on Monday evening (April 27), prompting his family to launch an appeal for information on the teenager's whereabouts.
Fabian's family has since confirmed he has been found safe and well.
They thanked readers for sharing the appeal.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--Dedicated Stourport fundraiser Mary Pulling has died

A POPULAR Stourport woman who helped to raise £47,000 for charities through rock and roll nights at the Royal British Legion has died .
Mary Pulling , who ran the monthly fundraising event with husband-of-55-years Dennis , passed away in hospital on Saturday , April 18 after suffering a heart attack , aged 74 .
Mary was born in Bridgnorth but moved to Cleobury Mortimer after marrying Dennis in 1965 .
The couple met at a rock and roll dance at Clows Top at the age of 15 , and went on to have three children , five grandchildren and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a machinist in Tenbury Wells and the pair moved to Stourport in 2000 , where Mary dedicated much of her life to charity fundraising .
Since taking over the rock and roll nights over 15 years ago , the Pullings have donated thousands of pounds to various local causes including Age UK , the Midlands Air Ambulance , the Salvation Army , KEMP and St Richard 's Hospice , Acorns , Age Concern , Birmingham Children 's Hospital and Headway .
Dennis told The Shuttle : `` Another couple started it as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people turned up .
`` After about 12 months , we took it over and turned it into a rock and roll night and never missed one since .
`` I had two operations and Mary had health issues but we carried it on on the first Friday of every month . ''
After experiencing health problems in recent months , Mary suffered a heart attack on Friday , April 17 and was admitted to hospital .
Her family said she was in `` good spirits '' the next morning , but sadly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and could not be revived .
Mary 's son Paul described her as `` a beautiful woman inside and out who would do anything for anybody '' .
He said : `` Mum was very well known in Cleobury and Stourport , not just for her fundraising but because she had a heart of gold .
`` She loved going to carboot sales and loved her garden , but always had time for her grandkids .
`` Rock and roll was a big interest of hers and my dad 's .
You could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was dedicated to everything she set her mind to , especially the fundraising .
She just wanted to help people .
`` She would never let friends down , even when she was ill and could barely walk .
Anybody she ever met , she touched their hearts .
`` The phone has n't stopped going since she died - she was an extremely popular lady . ''

Mary Pulling, who ran the monthly fundraising event with husband-of-55-years Dennis, passed away in hospital on Saturday, April 18 after suffering a heart attack, aged 74.
Mary was born in Bridgnorth but moved to Cleobury Mortimer after marrying Dennis in 1965.
The couple met at a rock and roll dance at Clows Top at the age of 15, and went on to have three children, five grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Mary worked as a machinist in Tenbury Wells and the pair moved to Stourport in 2000, where Mary dedicated much of her life to charity fundraising.
Since taking over the rock and roll nights over 15 years ago, the Pullings have donated thousands of pounds to various local causes including Age UK, the Midlands Air Ambulance, the Salvation Army, KEMP and St Richard's Hospice, Acorns, Age Concern, Birmingham Children's Hospital and Headway.
Dennis told The Shuttle: "Another couple started it as a disco and the first year only 13 people turned up.
"After about 12 months, we took it over and turned it into a rock and roll night and never missed one since.
"I had two operations and Mary had health issues but we carried it on on the first Friday of every month."
After experiencing health problems in recent months, Mary suffered a heart attack on Friday, April 17 and was admitted to hospital.
Her family said she was in "good spirits" the next morning, but sadly went into cardiac arrest later that day and could not be revived.
Mary's son Paul described her as "a beautiful woman inside and out who would do anything for anybody".
He said: "Mum was very well known in Cleobury and Stourport, not just for her fundraising but because she had a heart of gold.
"She loved going to carboot sales and loved her garden, but always had time for her grandkids.
"Rock and roll was a big interest of hers and my dad's. You couldn't keep her still.
"She was dedicated to everything she set her mind to, especially the fundraising. She just wanted to help people.
"She would never let friends down, even when she was ill and could barely walk. Anybody she ever met, she touched their hearts.
"The phone hasn't stopped going since she died - she was an extremely popular lady."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--Front desk at Kidderminster Police Station to close for maintenance

THE front office at Kidderminster Police Station will close to the public for three days to allow for maintenance works @ @ @ @ @ shut from Wednesday , April 29 to Friday , May 1 to allow for essential @ @ @ @ @ reopen on Saturday , May 2 .
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said : @ @ @ @ @ to make best use of the West Mercia Police website or use 101 for reporting @ @ @ @ @ front counters remain open at Worcester , Redditch and Telford police stations , however , @ @ @ @ @ are only used for essential enquiries .
`` If , as part of anyone ’ @ @ @ @ @ is a requirement to sign-on , then you can still do this at Kidderminster .
@ @ @ @ @ unaffected . ''
The 999 telephone system is unaffected by this closure and should be @ @ @ @ @

The counter will be shut from Wednesday, April 29 to Friday, May 1 to allow for essential maintenance work, and will reopen on Saturday, May 2.
A spokesman for West Mercia Police said: "We would encourage everyone to make best use of the West Mercia Police website or use 101 for reporting non-urgent enquiries.
"Alternative front counters remain open at Worcester, Redditch and Telford police stations, however, we would ask that these are only used for essential enquiries.
"If, as part of anyone’s bail conditions, there is a requirement to sign-on, then you can still do this at Kidderminster. Appointments and legal visits remain unaffected."
The 999 telephone system is unaffected by this closure and should be used in an emergency.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--Donations plea by Worcestershire scrubs stitchers

AN army of nearly 2,000 volunteers are sewing scrubs , bags , headbands and hats for Worcestershire ’ s hospitals and care workers .
With the nation in lockdown , amateur sewers across the county are giving up their time to make sure workers on the frontline of the coronavirus crisis are equipped with the clothing protection they need .
At the start of the coronavirus pandemic , Ashleigh Lindsell , an NHS worker from Lincoln , formed For the Love of Scrubs to encourage people to help make the uniforms from their homes in order to fill a gap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Worcestershire group was set up soon after and has grown exponentially to nearly 2,000 members across the county , the majority of whom are busy sewing and have given their time and their own materials to the cause .
The group has received approval from the NHS trust to make scrubs to its specification , and a process is in place to satisfy infection control guidelines , using a central hub for distribution of the finished scrubs .
Katie Powis , a founding member of the Worcestershire team , said : `` There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the towns across the county , whose homes have been turned into mini distribution hubs .
`` Everyone is working flat out seven days and evenings a week fundraising , sourcing and distributing fabric , sewing scrubs , hats , laundry bags and headbands and arranging distribution to front line staff .
“ We ’ ve been blown away by local businesses who have allowed their own employee volunteers into their empty offices to print our large AO size patterns .
`` On top of that , we have received donations of fabric @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sewers and their friends and families and some from businesses .
`` We also have two schools who are lending us their facility to cut fabric and a fabulous local website designer has designed and donated our amazing new website .
“ It is an absolutely amazing and humbling thing to be involved with .
Four sets of hospital scrubs made by Jane Smith '' We are stunned every day by people ’ s kindness and the gratitude from the front-line medics who receive our donations.
” So far , 225 scrub sets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ headbands and 602 scrub hats have been made by the sewers , but they are in desperate need of more materials .
A fundraising page has already received £5,000 in donations to make just over 300 sets , however the trust needs 1,000 to meet demand .
Anyone able to donate towards materials can do so online at gofundme.com/f/worcestershire-for-the-love-of-scrubs .
The group is also requesting donations of buttons , elastic , drawstring , and sewing thread .
Visit worcestershirefortheloveofscrubs.co.uk or join the Facebook group for more information .

With the nation in lockdown, amateur sewers across the county are giving up their time to make sure workers on the frontline of the coronavirus crisis are equipped with the clothing protection they need.
At the start of the coronavirus pandemic, Ashleigh Lindsell, an NHS worker from Lincoln, formed For the Love of Scrubs to encourage people to help make the uniforms from their homes in order to fill a gap in provision for NHS staff.
Julie Pask sewing hospital scrubs at home
A Worcestershire group was set up soon after and has grown exponentially to nearly 2,000 members across the county, the majority of whom are busy sewing and have given their time and their own materials to the cause.
The group has received approval from the NHS trust to make scrubs to its specification, and a process is in place to satisfy infection control guidelines, using a central hub for distribution of the finished scrubs.
Katie Powis, a founding member of the Worcestershire team, said: "There are over a dozen co-ordinators covering all the towns across the county, whose homes have been turned into mini distribution hubs.
"Everyone is working flat out seven days and evenings a week fundraising, sourcing and distributing fabric, sewing scrubs, hats, laundry bags and headbands and arranging distribution to front line staff.
“We’ve been blown away by local businesses who have allowed their own employee volunteers into their empty offices to print our large AO size patterns.
"On top of that, we have received donations of fabric and buttons, some from our fabulous sewers and their friends and families and some from businesses.
"We also have two schools who are lending us their facility to cut fabric and a fabulous local website designer has designed and donated our amazing new website.
“It is an absolutely amazing and humbling thing to be involved with.
Four sets of hospital scrubs made by Jane Smith
"We are stunned every day by people’s kindness and the gratitude from the front-line medics who receive our donations.”
So far, 225 scrub sets, 6,210 wash bags, 3,030 buttoned headbands and 602 scrub hats have been made by the sewers, but they are in desperate need of more materials.
A fundraising page has already received £5,000 in donations to make just over 300 sets, however the trust needs 1,000 to meet demand.
Anyone able to donate towards materials can do so online at gofundme.com/f/worcestershire-for-the-love-of-scrubs.
The group is also requesting donations of buttons, elastic, drawstring, and sewing thread. Visit worcestershirefortheloveofscrubs.co.uk or join the Facebook group for more information.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--UK Government issue new advice and tips to keep kids safe online

The government has released guidance urging parents to be aware of the dangers that can be lurking on the web - including cyber bullying , online predators , disinformation and scams .
The guidance comes after a virtual meeting held last week ( April 22 ) between Caroline Dinenage , the Minister for Digital and Culture , James Brokenshire , the Security Minister , and several children 's charities , such as Barnardo ’ s , NSPCC , and Samaritans , to discuss online safety during the pandemic .
Emma Thomas , CEO of children ’ s charity , Young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ fully recognise the growing mental health impact that Covid-19 will continue to have on children and young people , and ensure that addressing this is a key component of the ongoing response.
” How can I keep my children safe online ?
The government has recommended the following advice : • Review the security and parental safety settings on your household devices to help control what your children can access online and protect them from inappropriate content .
Here is a step by step guide from Internet Matters , to help you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your children to speak out if they come across any content makes them feel uncomfortable .
You can use this helpful guide from ChildNet to get the conversation started .
• If you find any harmful content , report it to The UK Safer Internet Centre .
• Encourage sensible sharing .
Talk to your children about sharing photos and information online , as well as how photos and words can often be manipulated .
• Additionally , parents and carers should not assume that children consent to their photos to be shared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice on screen time ?
In addition to the security guidelines , the government has issued the following advice regarding the amount of time spent on smart devices , with the help of The UK ’ s Chief Medical Officer : • Manage the amount of time each family member spends online , to avoid excessive usage , which can damage mental health .
Some devices , such as iPhones , come with inbuilt features to allow you to track the amount of time spent on your phone • Keep your children 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exercise breaks after a couple of hours of using a screen • Enjoy screen-free family activities - such as family dinner time - to encourage face-to-face conversation , so parents can give their full attention to their children What have ChildNet said ?
CEO of internet safety charity ChildNet , Will Gardner , said : “ Technology has proved to be enormously important in these unprecedented times .
“ We know that children are benefitting hugely from being connected , but we also know it ’ s even more important that we take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whilst online .
“ That ’ s why we welcome guidance which brings together practical and simple advice for families in this difficult period.
” In addition to these guidelines , the government announced earlier this year that it was keen to appoint the communications watchdog Ofcom as an online regulator , to enforce a statutory duty of care to protect users from harmful content .

The guidance comes after a virtual meeting held last week (April 22) between Caroline Dinenage, the Minister for Digital and Culture, James Brokenshire, the Security Minister, and several children's charities, such as Barnardo’s, NSPCC, and Samaritans, to discuss online safety during the pandemic.
Emma Thomas, CEO of children’s charity, Young Minds, called on the government to “fully recognise the growing mental health impact that Covid-19 will continue to have on children and young people, and ensure that addressing this is a key component of the ongoing response.”
How can I keep my children safe online?
The government has recommended the following advice:
Review the security and parental safety settings on your household devices to help control what your children can access online and protect them from inappropriate content. Here is a step by step guide from Internet Matters, to help you properly utilise these controls.
Encourage your children to speak out if they come across any content makes them feel uncomfortable. You can use this helpful guide from ChildNet to get the conversation started.
If you find any harmful content, report it to The UK Safer Internet Centre.
Encourage sensible sharing. Talk to your children about sharing photos and information online, as well as how photos and words can often be manipulated.
Additionally, parents and carers should not assume that children consent to their photos to be shared online.
What is the government's advice on screen time?
In addition to the security guidelines, the government has issued the following advice regarding the amount of time spent on smart devices, with the help of The UK’s Chief Medical Officer:
Manage the amount of time each family member spends online, to avoid excessive usage, which can damage mental health. Some devices, such as iPhones, come with inbuilt features to allow you to track the amount of time spent on your phone
Keep your children's sleep cycles regulated and ensure they take exercise breaks after a couple of hours of using a screen
Enjoy screen-free family activities - such as family dinner time - to encourage face-to-face conversation, so parents can give their full attention to their children
What have ChildNet said?
CEO of internet safety charity ChildNet, Will Gardner, said: “Technology has proved to be enormously important in these unprecedented times.
“We know that children are benefitting hugely from being connected, but we also know it’s even more important that we take steps to keep them safe and happy whilst online.
“That’s why we welcome guidance which brings together practical and simple advice for families in this difficult period.”
In addition to these guidelines, the government announced earlier this year that it was keen to appoint the communications watchdog Ofcom as an online regulator, to enforce a statutory duty of care to protect users from harmful content.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--Minute silence for key workers: Here’s what you need to know

The UK will hold a minute 's silence will be held today ( April 28 ) to pay tribute to the key workers who have lost their lives from Coronavirus .
Here ’ s what you need to know about the tribute , including key times , who organised it and who the silence is in memory of .
What time is the minute ’ s silence ?
The minute ’ s silence will be held on Tuesday , April 28 at 11am .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson , who returned to work on Monday ( April 27 ) will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's official spokesperson confirmed that he would be supporting the tribute , saying : `` We will be asking everybody who works in the government to take part and we would hope that others will take part nationwide as well . ''
Speaking at the Scottish Government 's daily coronavirus briefing , First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also encouraged everyone `` at home '' to join in with the minute ’ s silence .
The silence also coincides with International Workers ’ Memorial Day , which is an annual observance that pays tribute to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , disabled or have died due to their work .
Who is the minute ’ s silence in memory of ?
The minute ’ s silence is in memory of the key workers who have died from the virus .
At least 90 NHS workers have died since March 25 , alongside care and transport workers , and those in other key sectors .
Earlier this month , it was reported that 26 Transport for London workers had died from Covid-19 .
Transport for London has said the underground and bus network would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minute ’ s silence , with passengers also being asked to join in as the workforce honours its colleagues .
Who has organised the minute ’ s silence ?
The minute ’ s silence has been organised as part of a collaboration between the Royal College of Nursing , the Royal College of Midwives , and public service trade union Unison .
A statement released by the three organisations explained that International Workers ’ Memorial Day “ has never been more important ” in light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic .
Unison general @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Every year , the sacrifice of workers around the world is recognised , but this year has a special significance because of the pandemic .
“ Thousands of key staff are on the frontline while the rest of us are in lockdown .
That ’ s why we ’ ve issued this call for the whole country to take part and remember the sacrifices they ’ ve made .
The best tribute we can all pay them is to stay inside to protect the NHS.
” ‘ Our heroes kept going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing , said : `` Whether in nursing or driving buses , our heroes kept going to work when many had the luxury of staying at home .
“ Nobody should go out to work and risk their life .
This must not be the last time that sacrifice is recognised .
The country and its leaders owe a tremendous debt to these key workers and the many more who are on shift again today . ''

Here’s what you need to know about the tribute, including key times, who organised it and who the silence is in memory of.
What time is the minute’s silence?
The minute’s silence will be held on Tuesday, April 28 at 11am.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who returned to work on Monday (April 27) will join the tribute.
The prime minister's official spokesperson confirmed that he would be supporting the tribute, saying: "We will be asking everybody who works in the government to take part and we would hope that others will take part nationwide as well."
Speaking at the Scottish Government's daily coronavirus briefing, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also encouraged everyone "at home" to join in with the minute’s silence.
The silence also coincides with International Workers’ Memorial Day, which is an annual observance that pays tribute to workers who have become unwell, injured, disabled or have died due to their work.
Who is the minute’s silence in memory of?
The minute’s silence is in memory of the key workers who have died from the virus.
At least 90 NHS workers have died since March 25, alongside care and transport workers, and those in other key sectors.
Earlier this month, it was reported that 26 Transport for London workers had died from Covid-19.
Transport for London has said the underground and bus network would be brought to a halt for the minute’s silence, with passengers also being asked to join in as the workforce honours its colleagues.
Who has organised the minute’s silence?
The minute’s silence has been organised as part of a collaboration between the Royal College of Nursing, the Royal College of Midwives, and public service trade union Unison.
A statement released by the three organisations explained that International Workers’ Memorial Day “has never been more important” in light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Unison general secretary, Dave Prentis, said: “Every year, the sacrifice of workers around the world is recognised, but this year has a special significance because of the pandemic.
“Thousands of key staff are on the frontline while the rest of us are in lockdown. That’s why we’ve issued this call for the whole country to take part and remember the sacrifices they’ve made. The best tribute we can all pay them is to stay inside to protect the NHS.”
‘Our heroes kept going to work’
Dame Donna Kinnair, chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, said: "Whether in nursing or driving buses, our heroes kept going to work when many had the luxury of staying at home.
“Nobody should go out to work and risk their life. This must not be the last time that sacrifice is recognised. The country and its leaders owe a tremendous debt to these key workers and the many more who are on shift again today."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--Kidderminster man prints hundreds of 'ear savers' for NHS staff

THE owner of a computer repair businesses in Kidderminster has purchased two 3D printers to produce mask clips for frontline staff during the coronavirus outbreak .
Leon Reynolds , who runs Wizard PC Services , has printed more than 1,300 of the `` ear savers '' to secure key workers ' protective face masks and stop them from rubbing .
A fundraising page set up to fund equipment to print the clips has so far raised more than £1,000 - the cost of two new 3D printers .
The 'ear saver ' mask clips have been donated to hospital wards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was contacted by an old customer of mine who was friends with someone providing donations for NHS staff .
`` They needed a team of people with 3D printers to produce the ear savers for surgical masks , and I 'm one of them .
`` I 'm self-employed and my business is going out to see people to help with IT , so with the social distancing that 's put a stop to how I usually work .
`` My work load dropped dramatically and I already had a 3D printer so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It can only print seven clips at a time and that takes two and a quarter hours so it was heavy going at first .
`` I set up a Go Fund Me page and the response has been amazing .
I shared it with my customers and friends and we 've doubled the initial target , meaning I could buy two additional printers and the filament to go with it . ''
Leon 's 3D printers are printing clip masks for up to 17 hours each day Leon 's three printers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours a day and have produced nearly 1,400 clips in less than three weeks .
The ear savers have been donated to ambulance staff , care homes , wards at Worcestershire Royal Hospital and the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch .
Leon added : `` We 've had feedback from people like the ambulance service saying how grateful they are and that the clips have been a real help .
`` All of the key workers are doing a fabulous job and need all the support they can get . ''
To donate , @ @ @ @

Leon Reynolds, who runs Wizard PC Services, has printed more than 1,300 of the "ear savers" to secure key workers' protective face masks and stop them from rubbing.
A fundraising page set up to fund equipment to print the clips has so far raised more than £1,000 - the cost of two new 3D printers.
The 'ear saver' mask clips have been donated to hospital wards in Worcestershire
Leon said: "I was contacted by an old customer of mine who was friends with someone providing donations for NHS staff.
"They needed a team of people with 3D printers to produce the ear savers for surgical masks, and I'm one of them.
"I'm self-employed and my business is going out to see people to help with IT, so with the social distancing that's put a stop to how I usually work.
"My work load dropped dramatically and I already had a 3D printer so I offered to print a few.
"It can only print seven clips at a time and that takes two and a quarter hours so it was heavy going at first.
"I set up a Go Fund Me page and the response has been amazing. I shared it with my customers and friends and we've doubled the initial target, meaning I could buy two additional printers and the filament to go with it."
Leon's 3D printers are printing clip masks for up to 17 hours each day
Leon's three printers are now running for up to 17 hours a day and have produced nearly 1,400 clips in less than three weeks.
The ear savers have been donated to ambulance staff, care homes, wards at Worcestershire Royal Hospital and the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch.
Leon added: "We've had feedback from people like the ambulance service saying how grateful they are and that the clips have been a real help.
"All of the key workers are doing a fabulous job and need all the support they can get."
To donate, go to gofundme.com/f/covid19-nhs-ppe.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--MP on coronavirus: Countries may have lifted lockdown too early

It is good to have the Prime Minister back in No 10 .
If nothing else , his extended absence only serves to remind us just how awful this disease can be – even though many can have it whilst showing few or no symptoms .
His first job is to respond to the calls for a timetable on how we will come out of the lockdown .
Businesses and individuals are , completely understandably , eager to know how this will end .
Businesses need to make plans for investment , set timetables for when to bring staff back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and customers about co-ordination of supply chains .
Restarting the economy is fraught with complexities .
Similarly , individuals and families also need that steer on how their lives will re-emerge from lockdown .
And this uncertainty continues whilst other countries begin to open up .
The problem is , others may have opened too early .
Singapore , having thought it had got through the problems now finds itself retreating towards lockdown again .
Political leaders are concerned about the speed of opening up in different parts of their countries – Germany @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has opened to allow school age children to come out of their homes for the first time in month – a concession that we take for granted with our exercise hour .
There are two problems to setting out a timetable for exiting lockdown .
The first is that if we get this wrong , many will die .
That is a huge burden for anyone making the decision about easing social distancing .
A genuine life and death decision over the future of those people we represent .
The second is more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will happen and businesses will get the chance to plan .
In theory , a good thing , until best practice from other countries doing likewise across the globe proves that relaxing social isolation is counterproductive .
If we set a timetable , only to come out too early , or find we must change our plans , what extra chaos would that cause to business ?
There is no answer .
One group of society understandably want early release : another , equally understandably , wants to protect lives and the NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their opinion will be based on their own experiences .
I don ’ t suppose we will ever know when the right moment is , even with the benefit of hindsight .
This is a simple trade off – lives affected by coronavirus against lives affected by economic strife .

His first job is to respond to the calls for a timetable on how we will come out of the lockdown. Businesses and individuals are, completely understandably, eager to know how this will end.
Businesses need to make plans for investment, set timetables for when to bring staff back from furlough, have conversations with suppliers and customers about co-ordination of supply chains. Restarting the economy is fraught with complexities.
Similarly, individuals and families also need that steer on how their lives will re-emerge from lockdown. And this uncertainty continues whilst other countries begin to open up.
The problem is, others may have opened too early. Singapore, having thought it had got through the problems now finds itself retreating towards lockdown again.
Political leaders are concerned about the speed of opening up in different parts of their countries – Germany is a case in point.
Spain has opened to allow school age children to come out of their homes for the first time in month – a concession that we take for granted with our exercise hour.
There are two problems to setting out a timetable for exiting lockdown. The first is that if we get this wrong, many will die.
That is a huge burden for anyone making the decision about easing social distancing. A genuine life and death decision over the future of those people we represent.
The second is more practical. Set a timetable of what will happen and businesses will get the chance to plan.
In theory, a good thing, until best practice from other countries doing likewise across the globe proves that relaxing social isolation is counterproductive.
If we set a timetable, only to come out too early, or find we must change our plans, what extra chaos would that cause to business?
There is no answer. One group of society understandably want early release: another, equally understandably, wants to protect lives and the NHS.
Everyone will have an opinion and their opinion will be based on their own experiences. I don’t suppose we will ever know when the right moment is, even with the benefit of hindsight.
This is a simple trade off – lives affected by coronavirus against lives affected by economic strife.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--Missing Kidderminster boy found safe

Missing Kidderminster boy found safe

A 15-YEAR-OLD boy from Kidderminster has been found safe and well after a missing persons appeal .
Fabian Gaj went @ @ @ @ @ Monday evening ( April 27 ) , prompting his family to launch an appeal for @ @ @ @ @ whereabouts .
Fabian 's family has since confirmed he has been found safe and well @ @ @ @ @ sharing the appeal .


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--10 more Covid-19 deaths recorded at Worcestershire hospitals

THERE have been 10 further deaths related to coronavirus in Worcestershire hospitals , bringing the total over 200 .
The latest figures , announced by the NHS today ( April 28 ) , show eight new deaths were at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust hospitals , bringing its total to 187 .
And there were a further two deaths at Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust 's community hospitals , bringing its total to 20 .
In total 207 people have died of Covid-19 in county hospitals , the NHS figures show .
The latest figures relate to new deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all happen on the same day ) .
In England a further 552 people who tested positive for coronavirus have died , bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals nationally to 19,301 .
Patients were aged between 31 and 99 years old .
And 38 of the 552 patients - that were aged between 36 and 99 years old - had no known underlying health condition .
The acute hospital trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards , including Worcester City Impatient Unit , Malvern Community Hospital , Evesham Community Hospital , Pershore Community Hospital , the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove , Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wye Forest Ward .
The figures on deaths relate to patients who have died in hospital and who have tested positive for Covid-19 .
They do not include deaths outside hospital , such as those in care homes , prisons , ambulances or in the community .

The latest figures, announced by the NHS today (April 28), show eight new deaths were at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust hospitals, bringing its total to 187.
And there were a further two deaths at Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust's community hospitals, bringing its total to 20.
In total 207 people have died of Covid-19 in county hospitals, the NHS figures show.
The latest figures relate to new deaths being announced (the deaths did not all happen on the same day).
In England a further 552 people who tested positive for coronavirus have died, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals nationally to 19,301. Patients were aged between 31 and 99 years old.
And 38 of the 552 patients - that were aged between 36 and 99 years old - had no known underlying health condition.
The acute hospital trust covers Worcestershire Royal Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital as well as the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch and Kidderminster Hospital.
The health and care NHS trust covers community hospitals and rehabilitation wards, including Worcester City Impatient Unit, Malvern Community Hospital, Evesham Community Hospital, Pershore Community Hospital, the Princess of Wales Community Hospital in Bromsgrove, Tenbury Community Hospital and the Wye Forest Ward.
The figures on deaths relate to patients who have died in hospital and who have tested positive for Covid-19.
They do not include deaths outside hospital, such as those in care homes, prisons, ambulances or in the community.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-28--Asteroid 1998 OR2 set to pass earth on Wednesday - here's how you can see it

A GIANT asteroid is set to pass Earth this week - but scientists have reassured the public that the space rock does not pose a threat .
Officially named 1998 OR2 , the space rock is described as `` half the size of Everest '' , and will fly by at almost 19,500 miles per hour on Wednesday ( April 29 ) .
Here 's everything you need to know about it : Asteroid 1998 OR2 is thought to be sized between 1.8 and 4.1 kilometres in diameter .
That 's roughly 0.5 to 2.5 miles .
The higher end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be around half the size of Mount Everest , and taller than Japan 's Mount Fuji .
How close will it come ?
Asteroid 1998 OR2 will buzz the planet just 3.9 million miles from its surface .
This may sound far away , but in space terms , it 's relatively near , close enough to be considered a `` Near Earth Object '' ( NEO ) by NASA .
The space agency considers anything passing within 120 million miles of Earth a NEO .
How can I see the asteroid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visible with the naked eye .
But if you have a telescope handy at home , you should be able to see 1998 OR2 as it skims passed earth .
For those without , you can actually watch the asteroid pass us online , as the Virtual Telescope Project in Rome will host a free public viewing of the asteroid .
Despite being considered a 'Near Earth Object ' a `` potentially dangerous '' as a result of its size and proximity to earth , the chances of 1998 OR2 colliding with Earth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our planet 's in for an even closer shave in around 60 years time , when 1998 OR2 is expected to pass within just one million miles of Earth .
The space agency explained , “ Experts estimate that an impact of an object the size of the one that exploded over Chelyabinsk , Russia , in 2013 – approximately 55 feet ( 17 metres ) in size – takes place once or twice a century .
“ Impacts of larger objects are expected to be far less frequent ( on the scale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , given the current incompleteness of the NEO catalogue , an unpredicted impact – such as the Chelyabinsk event – could occur at any time.
” Nothing has struck earth with apocalyptic damage for 66 million years , when an asteroid wiped out the dinosaurs .
Asteroids are large rocks that orbit around the sun .
Often , due to gravitational pulls from planets , they can be moved off course and can collide with planets and other debris in space .
They differ to meteors , which are smaller rocks that fly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crash down through earth 's atmosphere , they burn up and vaporise , causing what we know as a `` shooting star '' .

Officially named 1998 OR2, the space rock is described as "half the size of Everest", and will fly by at almost 19,500 miles per hour on Wednesday (April 29).
Here's everything you need to know about it:
How big is 1998 OR2?
Asteroid 1998 OR2 is thought to be sized between 1.8 and 4.1 kilometres in diameter. That's roughly 0.5 to 2.5 miles.
The higher end of that estimate suggests the space rock could be around half the size of Mount Everest, and taller than Japan's Mount Fuji.
How close will it come?
Asteroid 1998 OR2 will buzz the planet just 3.9 million miles from its surface.
This may sound far away, but in space terms, it's relatively near, close enough to be considered a "Near Earth Object" (NEO) by NASA.
The space agency considers anything passing within 120 million miles of Earth a NEO.
How can I see the asteroid?
Unfortunately, the won't be visible with the naked eye.
But if you have a telescope handy at home, you should be able to see 1998 OR2 as it skims passed earth.
For those without, you can actually watch the asteroid pass us online, as the Virtual Telescope Project in Rome will host a free public viewing of the asteroid.
Is it dangerous?
Despite being considered a 'Near Earth Object' a "potentially dangerous" as a result of its size and proximity to earth, the chances of 1998 OR2 colliding with Earth are very slim indeed.
However, our planet's in for an even closer shave in around 60 years time, when 1998 OR2 is expected to pass within just one million miles of Earth.
NASA discovers roughly 30 NEOs every week.
The space agency explained, “Experts estimate that an impact of an object the size of the one that exploded over Chelyabinsk, Russia, in 2013 – approximately 55 feet (17 metres) in size – takes place once or twice a century.
“Impacts of larger objects are expected to be far less frequent (on the scale of centuries to millennia). However, given the current incompleteness of the NEO catalogue, an unpredicted impact – such as the Chelyabinsk event – could occur at any time.”
Nothing has struck earth with apocalyptic damage for 66 million years, when an asteroid wiped out the dinosaurs.
Asteroids are large rocks that orbit around the sun. Often, due to gravitational pulls from planets, they can be moved off course and can collide with planets and other debris in space.
They differ to meteors, which are smaller rocks that fly around our solar system. When these crash down through earth's atmosphere, they burn up and vaporise, causing what we know as a "shooting star".


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Coronavirus: Worcestershire and national news


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Coronavirus: New figures show at least 46 Wyre Forest deaths

AT least 46 people from Wyre Forest have died from coronavirus-related conditions , new statistics revealed this week show , as the district remains one of the parts of Worcestershire worst hit by the virus .
Updated Office of National Statistics figures show that , as of April 17 , Covid-19 had been a contributory factor in the deaths of 46 Wyre Forest residents this year .
Any deaths that have occurred since that date are not included in the figures so the toll is likely to be higher .
The data reveals that the majority of the deaths - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in hospitals , with eight in care homes and two fatalities at home .
The figure of 46 is the third-highest in Worcestershire , with only Wychavon ( 51 ) and Bromsgrove ( 60 ) suffering more deaths .
The areas in the county with the lowest number of deaths , by comparison , are Malvern Hills ( 26 ) , Redditch ( 23 ) and the city of Worcester ( 20 ) .
The first Covid-related death in Wyre Forest was recorded in the week ending March 20 and they have steadily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seven coronavirus-related deaths in the district the following week and then 11 for the week ending April 3 .
In the week ending April 10 , there were 13 deaths and then 14 for the most recent week included in the data , the week ending April 17 .
Unlike government-issued figures , which only include hospital deaths , the ONS data tracks Covid deaths in all establishments , including care homes , to give a truer reflection of the total .
Official NHS figures say that , as of Tuesday , 207 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but , for the reasons explained above , that figure will be higher , as will the national toll of just over 20,000 .
The Office of National Statistics data records weekly deaths from Covid-19 , breaking them down into local authority area of where the person was from .
It intends to release the figures on a weekly basis to chart the course of the pandemic .

Updated Office of National Statistics figures show that, as of April 17, Covid-19 had been a contributory factor in the deaths of 46 Wyre Forest residents this year.
Any deaths that have occurred since that date are not included in the figures so the toll is likely to be higher.
The data reveals that the majority of the deaths - 36 out of 46 - have happened in hospitals, with eight in care homes and two fatalities at home.
The figure of 46 is the third-highest in Worcestershire, with only Wychavon (51) and Bromsgrove (60) suffering more deaths.
The areas in the county with the lowest number of deaths, by comparison, are Malvern Hills (26), Redditch (23) and the city of Worcester (20).
The first Covid-related death in Wyre Forest was recorded in the week ending March 20 and they have steadily increased each week since.
There were seven coronavirus-related deaths in the district the following week and then 11 for the week ending April 3.
In the week ending April 10, there were 13 deaths and then 14 for the most recent week included in the data, the week ending April 17.
Unlike government-issued figures, which only include hospital deaths, the ONS data tracks Covid deaths in all establishments, including care homes, to give a truer reflection of the total.
Official NHS figures say that, as of Tuesday, 207 people in Worcestershire had died with coronavirus but, for the reasons explained above, that figure will be higher, as will the national toll of just over 20,000.
The Office of National Statistics data records weekly deaths from Covid-19, breaking them down into local authority area of where the person was from.
It intends to release the figures on a weekly basis to chart the course of the pandemic.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Warning after rise in railway trespassers near Kidderminster

THE Severn Valley Railway is urging people not to trespass on its tracks between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth following an increase in incidents .
The warning is in response to a rise in railway line trespassers at various points along the 16-mile route .
Anyone who walks on or beside the line is breaking the law and putting themselves in potential danger , warned general manager Helen Smith .
She said : “ Although there are currently no public services as a result of the lockdown measures under the coronavirus pandemic , we do still have unscheduled engineering trains moving around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and maintenance operation .
`` We are under tremendous pressure at the moment , and the last thing we need would be to have to deal with an injury or worse on the railway as a result of trespass .
`` We ’ re stepping up security along the line and urge members of the public not to use the railway as a footpath .
`` Please come and enjoy the beautiful scenery from on board one of our trains , once we ’ re able to resume services.
” Trespassing on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a fine of £1,000 or up to one month ’ s imprisonment .
The SVR closed its doors to visitors on March 15 as part of the lockdown measures following Government advice .

The warning is in response to a rise in railway line trespassers at various points along the 16-mile route.
Anyone who walks on or beside the line is breaking the law and putting themselves in potential danger, warned general manager Helen Smith.
She said: “Although there are currently no public services as a result of the lockdown measures under the coronavirus pandemic, we do still have unscheduled engineering trains moving around the railway as part of our care and maintenance operation.
"We are under tremendous pressure at the moment, and the last thing we need would be to have to deal with an injury or worse on the railway as a result of trespass.
"We’re stepping up security along the line and urge members of the public not to use the railway as a footpath.
"Please come and enjoy the beautiful scenery from on board one of our trains, once we’re able to resume services.”
Trespassing on the SVR line could lead to prosecution and a fine of £1,000 or up to one month’s imprisonment.
The SVR closed its doors to visitors on March 15 as part of the lockdown measures following Government advice.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Stourport mum makes masks for others after beating coronavirus

A CARE home worker from Stourport is sewing masks for others after a month-long fight with coronavirus .
Natalie Emms , 45 , began experiencing symptoms four weeks ago and is only just starting to recover from the virus , although still spending much of her days in bed .
The mum-of-one , who works as a senior carer at Ravenhurst Care Home , began sewing the protective face masks from old pillow cases as a thank you to family members who have supported her through the illness .
She told the Shuttle : `` I ’ m still recovering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ temperature over 39 and I was woozy and could n't get out of bed .
`` My sister has been helping us out a lot lately and doing shopping for the family and I wanted to make sure she had something she could wear to protect her .
`` I was just sat in bed all day so I thought I 'd go onto Youtube and learn how to make the masks .
`` I made one for her as she had run out of disposable ones and then made one for my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grew from there . ''
Natalie has now made 10 masks for family members as well as colleagues from the Lickhill Road North care home .
`` I 'm doing two to three a day at the moment , '' said Natalie .
`` I do n't have a sewing machine so I 'm doing them all by hand and I 'm still quite weak - my body has been through quite a bit .
Stourport 's Natalie Emms is making protective masks out of old pillow cases for family members and colleagues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people that have helped me out .
`` I 've had a few messages from people wanting me to make one for them , so I might have to invest in a sewing machine ! ''
Natalie 's older sister Beverley Griffiths , 48 , said : `` She has been really poorly and it 's been quite traumatic for the family .
I know thousands of people are going through it but when you see it for yourself with a family member or a close friend , it 's just awful .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sat up in bed making these masks .
I 'm really proud of her . ''

Natalie Emms, 45, began experiencing symptoms four weeks ago and is only just starting to recover from the virus, although still spending much of her days in bed.
The mum-of-one, who works as a senior carer at Ravenhurst Care Home, began sewing the protective face masks from old pillow cases as a thank you to family members who have supported her through the illness.
Stourport carer Natalie Emms with daughter Kimberley Underwood
She told the Shuttle: "I’m still recovering at the moment. I had a temperature over 39 and I was woozy and couldn't get out of bed.
"My sister has been helping us out a lot lately and doing shopping for the family and I wanted to make sure she had something she could wear to protect her.
"I was just sat in bed all day so I thought I'd go onto Youtube and learn how to make the masks.
Natalie Emms and sister Beverley Griffiths
"I made one for her as she had run out of disposable ones and then made one for my daughter and my husband and it just grew from there."
Natalie has now made 10 masks for family members as well as colleagues from the Lickhill Road North care home.
"I'm doing two to three a day at the moment," said Natalie. "I don't have a sewing machine so I'm doing them all by hand and I'm still quite weak - my body has been through quite a bit.
Stourport's Natalie Emms is making protective masks out of old pillow cases for family members and colleagues
"I just wanted to protect the people that have helped me out.
"I've had a few messages from people wanting me to make one for them, so I might have to invest in a sewing machine!"
Natalie's older sister Beverley Griffiths, 48, said: "She has been really poorly and it's been quite traumatic for the family. I know thousands of people are going through it but when you see it for yourself with a family member or a close friend, it's just awful.
"It's great to see her sat up in bed making these masks. I'm really proud of her."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Thank your postman on National Postal Workers Day

UNION chiefs are urging Bromsgrove folk to help mark National Postal Workers Day today ( Wednesday , April 29 ) .
The event is held annually but the Commercial Workers Union says it is particularly pertinent during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic .
CWU branch secretary Brendon Allen said : “ Postal Workers here in Worcestershire and Herefordshire as well as across the country are doing a fantastic job .
`` We have had an amazing response from the public who clearly value the work of their local postie and the incredible role they play in the local community .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drinks left on doorsteps or even a simple ‘ thank you ’ mean the world to our members .
`` On National Postal Workers Day this Wednesday please let your postie know how appreciated they are by thanking them or posting on social media using # PostalWorkersDay – thank you for your support.
” Today marks the ninth annual National Postal Workers Day , when the nation celebrates the hard work and dedication of hundreds of thousands of postal workers , who collect , sort and deliver letters , parcels and packets to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week in every village , town and city in the UK .

The event is held annually but the Commercial Workers Union says it is particularly pertinent during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
CWU branch secretary Brendon Allen said: “Postal Workers here in Worcestershire and Herefordshire as well as across the country are doing a fantastic job.
"We have had an amazing response from the public who clearly value the work of their local postie and the incredible role they play in the local community.
"The sight of posters in windows, drinks left on doorsteps or even a simple ‘thank you’ mean the world to our members.
"On National Postal Workers Day this Wednesday please let your postie know how appreciated they are by thanking them or posting on social media using #PostalWorkersDay – thank you for your support.”
Today marks the ninth annual National Postal Workers Day, when the nation celebrates the hard work and dedication of hundreds of thousands of postal workers, who collect, sort and deliver letters, parcels and packets to 29 million addresses, six days a week in every village, town and city in the UK.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Netflix and Amazon Prime: Here are the best new series and movies coming in May 2020

Netflix and Amazon Prime have unveiled the best new series and movies coming to their streaming platforms in May .
In no particular order , here are the best new series and movies coming to Netflix and Amazon Prime in May 2020 : What is it ?
May 's tent-pole Netflix drama comes from Glee creators Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan .
It tells the story of a group of aspiring actors and filmmakers in post-World War II Hollywood as they try to make it in Tinseltown - no matter the cost .
The ensemble cast includes Queen Latifah , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parsons , and Netflix say `` each character offers a unique glimpse behind the gilded curtain of Hollywood 's Golden Age , spotlighting the unfair systems and biases across race , gender and sexuality that continue to this day . ''
When can I watch it ?
May 1 What is it ?
This Belgian apocalyptic sci-fi thriller begins with a sudden solar event , as the sun inexplicably starts killing everything in its path .
The show follows the multinational and multilingual passengers and crew of an overnight flight out of Brussels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the safety of the dark night .
The seemingly ordinary travellers share one thing : a desire to survive the sun - and each other - by any means necessary .
When can I watch it ?
May 1 What is it ?
This sci-fi satire series is set in a future where humans are able to 'upload ' themselves into their preferred choice of afterlife .
When Nathan meets his early death , he is greeted by Nora in his version of heaven , who 's visiting through the power of virtual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Nathan grows accustomed to life away from his loved ones , and the alive Nora struggles to stay afloat working her job alongside Nathan in the afterlife .
When can I watch it ?
May 1 What is it ?
Directed by Academy Award winner Damien Chazelle ( La La Land ) , The Eddy is a French musical drama television set in Paris .
The show centres around the titular struggling Parisian club , owned by Elliot , once a celebrated jazz pianist in New York .
Now , he manages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and on-again-off-again girlfriend Maja , and learns that his business partner may be involved in some questionable practices at the club .
When can I watch it ?
May 8 What is it ?
Arguably the most intriguing documentary offering from Netflix this month , Trial by Media reflects on some of the most dramatic and memorable trials in recent history , exploring the many ways in which the press have contributed to reshaping public perception about guilt or innocence .
The series features cases reaching across different areas of the law , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s political fall , and the case of Amadou Diallo , an unarmed African immigrant who was shot 41 times by police in New York City .
When can I watch it ?
May 11 What is it ?
If you were a fan of Narcos over on Netflix , you might want to turn your attention to Prime this month , where this new documentary shines a light on the true events that inspired that series .
When can I watch it ?
May 15 What is it ?
This British/Spanish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body of a legendary Manchester DJ is discovered twenty years after his mysterious disappearance from Ibiza .
The DJ 's sister returns to the Spanish island resort to find out just what happened , and uncoveres a world of dance clubs , lies and cover-ups .
When can I watch it ?
May 15 What is it ?
If the gritty crime dramas and true-crime docuseries on court cases are all a bit much during the current circumstances , The Big Flower Fight will be more for you .
Essentially to floristry what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the wholesome show also has its unlikely presenter combo in place as Vic Reeves and comedian Natasia Demetriou guide us through a flower-arranging contest like no other .
When can I watch it ?
May 18 What is it ?
That did n't take long .
Just a few months after the new independent branch of the U.S. Armed Forces was established by Donald Trump , here comes a Netflix comedy about what it might be like to work there .
It stars Steve Carell as four-star general Mark R. Naird , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finds himself tapped to lead the newly formed branch of the US Armed Forces .
Mark uproots his family and moves to a remote base in Colorado where he and a colorful team of scientists and “ Spacemen ” are tasked by the White House with getting American boots on the moon ( again ) .
When can I watch it ?
May 29

In no particular order, here are the best new series and movies coming to Netflix and Amazon Prime in May 2020:
Hollywood
Netflix
What is it? May's tent-pole Netflix drama comes from Glee creators Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan.
It tells the story of a group of aspiring actors and filmmakers in post-World War II Hollywood as they try to make it in Tinseltown - no matter the cost.
The ensemble cast includes Queen Latifah, and The Big Bang Theory's Jim Parsons, and Netflix say "each character offers a unique glimpse behind the gilded curtain of Hollywood's Golden Age, spotlighting the unfair systems and biases across race, gender and sexuality that continue to this day."
When can I watch it? May 1
Into the Night
Netflix
What is it? This Belgian apocalyptic sci-fi thriller begins with a sudden solar event, as the sun inexplicably starts killing everything in its path.
The show follows the multinational and multilingual passengers and crew of an overnight flight out of Brussels as they attempt to fly west into the safety of the dark night.
The seemingly ordinary travellers share one thing: a desire to survive the sun - and each other - by any means necessary.
When can I watch it? May 1
Upload
Amazon Prime
What is it? This sci-fi satire series is set in a future where humans are able to 'upload' themselves into their preferred choice of afterlife.
When Nathan meets his early death, he is greeted by Nora in his version of heaven, who's visiting through the power of virtual reality.
The series follows the two as Nathan grows accustomed to life away from his loved ones, and the alive Nora struggles to stay afloat working her job alongside Nathan in the afterlife.
When can I watch it? May 1
The Eddy
Netflix
What is it? Directed by Academy Award winner Damien Chazelle (La La Land), The Eddy is a French musical drama television set in Paris.
The show centres around the titular struggling Parisian club, owned by Elliot, once a celebrated jazz pianist in New York.
Now, he manages the house band fronted by lead singer and on-again-off-again girlfriend Maja, and learns that his business partner may be involved in some questionable practices at the club.
When can I watch it? May 8
Trial by Media
Netflix
What is it? Arguably the most intriguing documentary offering from Netflix this month, Trial by Media reflects on some of the most dramatic and memorable trials in recent history, exploring the many ways in which the press have contributed to reshaping public perception about guilt or innocence.
The series features cases reaching across different areas of the law, like the sensational story of Rod Blagojevich’s political fall, and the case of Amadou Diallo, an unarmed African immigrant who was shot 41 times by police in New York City.
When can I watch it? May 11
The Last Narc
Amazon Prime
What is it? If you were a fan of Narcos over on Netflix, you might want to turn your attention to Prime this month, where this new documentary shines a light on the true events that inspired that series.
When can I watch it? May 15
White Lines
Netflix
What is it? This British/Spanish co-produced mystery thriller recounts events after the body of a legendary Manchester DJ is discovered twenty years after his mysterious disappearance from Ibiza.
The DJ's sister returns to the Spanish island resort to find out just what happened, and uncoveres a world of dance clubs, lies and cover-ups.
When can I watch it? May 15
The Big Flower Fight
Netflix
What is it? If the gritty crime dramas and true-crime docuseries on court cases are all a bit much during the current circumstances, The Big Flower Fight will be more for you.
Essentially to floristry what The Bake Off is to bakery, the wholesome show also has its unlikely presenter combo in place as Vic Reeves and comedian Natasia Demetriou guide us through a flower-arranging contest like no other.
When can I watch it? May 18
Space Force
Netflix
What is it? That didn't take long. Just a few months after the new independent branch of the U.S. Armed Forces was established by Donald Trump, here comes a Netflix comedy about what it might be like to work there.
It stars Steve Carell as four-star general Mark R. Naird, who is thrown for a loop when he finds himself tapped to lead the newly formed branch of the US Armed Forces.
Mark uproots his family and moves to a remote base in Colorado where he and a colorful team of scientists and “Spacemen” are tasked by the White House with getting American boots on the moon (again).
When can I watch it? May 29


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--John Lewis: All 50 stores across the country 'highly unlikely' to reopen after lockdown

All 50 department stores of John Lewis across the country are 'highly unlikely ' to reopen once the coronavirus lockdown ends - according to reports .
PA ( formerly known as the Press Association ) understand that senior management at John Lewis are deciding which department stores should keep their doors closed permanently once the crisis is over .
Sources close to the employee-owned retailer said it was “ highly unlikely ” that all 50 sites would reopen , as the company battles for its future .
Dame Sharon White , the new chairman of the John Lewis Partnership ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to address analysts in the City on Wednesday , updating them on the company ’ s performance during the past week .
There has also been speculation that Dame Sharon will need to tap up customers and financial institutions , through a corporate bond , for extra cash .
The Times reported on Monday that the former Ofcom chief is seeking out views to see if investors are willing .
JLP also includes food retailler Waitrose , which has fared better during the lockdown , due to remaining open .
owever with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are under way on whether it will be financially viable to reopen department stores .
Several Waitrose stores have already been closed in recent years .
Veteran retail analyst , Richard Hyman , said : “ Does it make sense for John Lewis to close some stores , absolutely yes .
“ No one wants to see people losing their jobs which is what would happen , but the reality is for the market at large , online has been getting bigger and bigger , with John Lewis at the vanguard.
” He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all retail is already online , adding “ for John Lewis that number was short of 50 per cent before Covid-19 , although now it ’ s at 100 per cent .
“ The reality is the retail world we are all moving into means every retailer needs fewer stores than it did before , including John Lewis , and not addressing this problem puts the rest of the business in jeopardy.
” Shortly after arriving at John Lewis Partnership earlier this year , Dame Sharon already warned the company is facing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She added in February that stores are unlikely to remain open without financial improvements .
JLP said in a statement : “ We keep our estate under continuous review in order to ensure we have the right amounts of shops to best serve our customers and remain commercially viable .
“ It is too early to make a decision but , as always , any decision that is made is done with securing the long-term financial sustainability of the Partnership and is always communicated to our Partners first .
”

PA (formerly known as the Press Association) understand that senior management at John Lewis are deciding which department stores should keep their doors closed permanently once the crisis is over.
Sources close to the employee-owned retailer said it was “highly unlikely” that all 50 sites would reopen, as the company battles for its future.
Dame Sharon White, the new chairman of the John Lewis Partnership (JLP) and her team are set to address analysts in the City on Wednesday, updating them on the company’s performance during the past week.
There has also been speculation that Dame Sharon will need to tap up customers and financial institutions, through a corporate bond, for extra cash.
The Times reported on Monday that the former Ofcom chief is seeking out views to see if investors are willing.
JLP also includes food retailler Waitrose, which has fared better during the lockdown, due to remaining open.
owever with a major ramp-up of online operations, discussions are under way on whether it will be financially viable to reopen department stores.
Several Waitrose stores have already been closed in recent years.
Reaction to John Lewis news
Veteran retail analyst, Richard Hyman, said: “Does it make sense for John Lewis to close some stores, absolutely yes.
“No one wants to see people losing their jobs which is what would happen, but the reality is for the market at large, online has been getting bigger and bigger, with John Lewis at the vanguard.”
He pointed out that 30 per cent of all retail is already online, adding “for John Lewis that number was short of 50 per cent before Covid-19, although now it’s at 100 per cent.
“The reality is the retail world we are all moving into means every retailer needs fewer stores than it did before, including John Lewis, and not addressing this problem puts the rest of the business in jeopardy.”
'Challenging period'
Shortly after arriving at John Lewis Partnership earlier this year, Dame Sharon already warned the company is facing the most challenging period in its history.
She added in February that stores are unlikely to remain open without financial improvements.
JLP said in a statement: “We keep our estate under continuous review in order to ensure we have the right amounts of shops to best serve our customers and remain commercially viable.
“It is too early to make a decision but, as always, any decision that is made is done with securing the long-term financial sustainability of the Partnership and is always communicated to our Partners first.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Surprise street party for Kidderminster man's 80th birthday

NEIGHBOURS surprised a Kidderminster man on his 80th birthday with a St George 's Day-themed street party .
A surprise party organised for Phil Green by his family had to be cancelled due to the coronavirus lockdown , so wife Jean took it upon herself to organise her own with help from fellow residents of Franche Court Drive .
Jean , 79 , told The Shuttle : `` My husband Phil was feeling down because our celebrations had to be cancelled and he kept asking what we would do instead .
I told him the same as every day at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I had asked our neighbours if they would come out at 11am to sing Happy Birthday .
I had some union jack bunting , bowler hats and flags in the garage , which the neighbours had agreed to wear .
`` With Phil 's help on Wednesday , we put up the bunting as I told him it was St George 's Day too on Thursday .
`` Then I had the problem of getting him out of the house at precisely 11am so I asked our next door neighbours , the Tibbetts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coffee on their front lawn as a one off for his birthday - keeping our distance and bringing our own coffee .
`` When we went out , there the neighbours were , wearing the bowler hats and waving the flags and singing Happy Birthday , For He 's a Jolly Good Fellow , and the Midlands version of YNWA . ''
Around 16 neighbours stood in the street to sing to Phil - a retired insurance broker - and helped themselves to cupcakes left on the car by Jean .
A further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the couple 's two children that evening , when Jean presented her husband with a Liverpool Football Club-themed cake , which was shared with neighbours as a thank you the following day .
`` Phil did n't have an inkling , '' said Jean .
`` It was difficult arranging a surprise when you 're in the house with the person all the time .
I had to wait for him to go in the garden before calling the neighbours .
`` He was overwhelmed and over the moon . ''

A surprise party organised for Phil Green by his family had to be cancelled due to the coronavirus lockdown, so wife Jean took it upon herself to organise her own with help from fellow residents of Franche Court Drive.
Jean, 79, told The Shuttle: "My husband Phil was feeling down because our celebrations had to be cancelled and he kept asking what we would do instead. I told him the same as every day at present.
"Unknown to him, I had asked our neighbours if they would come out at 11am to sing Happy Birthday. I had some union jack bunting, bowler hats and flags in the garage, which the neighbours had agreed to wear.
"With Phil's help on Wednesday, we put up the bunting as I told him it was St George's Day too on Thursday.
"Then I had the problem of getting him out of the house at precisely 11am so I asked our next door neighbours, the Tibbetts, if they would invite us to coffee on their front lawn as a one off for his birthday - keeping our distance and bringing our own coffee.
"When we went out, there the neighbours were, wearing the bowler hats and waving the flags and singing Happy Birthday, For He's a Jolly Good Fellow, and the Midlands version of YNWA."
Around 16 neighbours stood in the street to sing to Phil - a retired insurance broker - and helped themselves to cupcakes left on the car by Jean.
A further surprise came during a Zoom call with the couple's two children that evening, when Jean presented her husband with a Liverpool Football Club-themed cake, which was shared with neighbours as a thank you the following day.
"Phil didn't have an inkling," said Jean. "It was difficult arranging a surprise when you're in the house with the person all the time. I had to wait for him to go in the garden before calling the neighbours.
"He was overwhelmed and over the moon."


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Coronavirus found in 48 Worcestershire care homes, figures state

EIGHT residents have died of coronavirus in care homes in Wyre Forest , according to the latest figures .
Data published by the Office of National Statistics has revealed the number of virus-related deaths in the county since the start of the covid-19 outbreak in the UK .
The figures include three care home deaths in Redditch , 16 in Bromsgrove and two in Worcester as of April 17 .
Further data seen by The Shuttle suggests that , as of April 27 , there had been 178 confirmed coronavirus cases in 48 Worcestershire care homes .
Since March 26 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 91 virus-related deaths in 39 care homes across the county .
Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier described the situation in care homes as `` very worrying '' , adding that the correct PPE was essential to stop further spread .
He said : `` The number of deaths in care homes across the country is awful .
It 's very worrying .
`` We have district nurses that need to enter care homes and some are not getting the necessary PPE they need , and once coronavirus is in a nursing home , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spreading like wildfire .
`` The figures relating to deaths also somewhat depend on the GP who does the death certificates - whether they believe coronavirus was the cause of death .
`` We as MPs have weekly conference calls with a number of different agencies including the county council and the NHS and we will then feedback to Government where they need help . ''
Mr Garnier admitted he had been contacted by care home staff reporting a lack of PPE , but said : `` Having spoken to the NHS and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top of this and I have every confidence they know what they are doing .
`` PPE is a problem we are working hard to fix . ''
The MP said that the county 's first coronavirus case in a care home was confirmed within Wyre Forest three weeks ago .
At Nightingales of Kidderminster care home in Wolverley , caravans have been donated to allow staff to stay on the grounds as they try to keep it free of covid-19 .
Residents at Brook Court in Kidderminster are being cared for in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minimise any risk of infection .
Home manager Gill Pratt said : `` We are working to the strictest infection control measures and doing all we can to continue to deliver the best possible care and support our residents during this challenging time .
`` Brook Court has a number of control processes in place to ensure anyone who comes into the homes , including team members , is screened via a health and temperature check .
`` Everyone is also asked to follow additional hygiene measures , including the use of personal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
She said the home had access to a `` full supply '' of the required PPE , and said the local authorities had been sending regular updates and information about testing , policies and admissions .
Elaine Carolan , director of adult services at Worcestershire County Council .
said : “ It ’ s extremely sad that we ’ re now seeing cases of Coronavirus within some of our care homes and in some cases residents are losing their lives due to the virus .
“ We have a comprehensive support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with NHS partners and this includes ensuring that care homes have an adequate supply of PPE .
To date we have already supported over 300 providers.
” As of 7pm on Tuesday ( April 28 ) , there had been a total of 1,072 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in Worcestershire .

Data published by the Office of National Statistics has revealed the number of virus-related deaths in the county since the start of the covid-19 outbreak in the UK.
The figures include three care home deaths in Redditch, 16 in Bromsgrove and two in Worcester as of April 17.
Further data seen by The Shuttle suggests that, as of April 27, there had been 178 confirmed coronavirus cases in 48 Worcestershire care homes.
Since March 26, these figures show there had been 91 virus-related deaths in 39 care homes across the county.
Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier described the situation in care homes as "very worrying", adding that the correct PPE was essential to stop further spread.
He said: "The number of deaths in care homes across the country is awful. It's very worrying.
"We have district nurses that need to enter care homes and some are not getting the necessary PPE they need, and once coronavirus is in a nursing home, it's difficult to stop it from spreading like wildfire.
"The figures relating to deaths also somewhat depend on the GP who does the death certificates - whether they believe coronavirus was the cause of death.
"We as MPs have weekly conference calls with a number of different agencies including the county council and the NHS and we will then feedback to Government where they need help."
Mr Garnier admitted he had been contacted by care home staff reporting a lack of PPE, but said: "Having spoken to the NHS and the council, they are absolutely on top of this and I have every confidence they know what they are doing.
"PPE is a problem we are working hard to fix."
The MP said that the county's first coronavirus case in a care home was confirmed within Wyre Forest three weeks ago.
At Nightingales of Kidderminster care home in Wolverley, caravans have been donated to allow staff to stay on the grounds as they try to keep it free of covid-19.
Residents at Brook Court in Kidderminster are being cared for in their rooms as much as possible to minimise any risk of infection.
Home manager Gill Pratt said: "We are working to the strictest infection control measures and doing all we can to continue to deliver the best possible care and support our residents during this challenging time.
"Brook Court has a number of control processes in place to ensure anyone who comes into the homes, including team members, is screened via a health and temperature check.
"Everyone is also asked to follow additional hygiene measures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as appropriate."
She said the home had access to a "full supply" of the required PPE, and said the local authorities had been sending regular updates and information about testing, policies and admissions.
Elaine Carolan, director of adult services at Worcestershire County Council. said: “It’s extremely sad that we’re now seeing cases of Coronavirus within some of our care homes and in some cases residents are losing their lives due to the virus.
“We have a comprehensive support package for all care homes in conjunction with NHS partners and this includes ensuring that care homes have an adequate supply of PPE. To date we have already supported over 300 providers.”
As of 7pm on Tuesday (April 28), there had been a total of 1,072 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in Worcestershire.


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Appeal launched to find missing man from Kidderminster

POLICE are asking the public to help locate a man who has gone missing from Kidderminster .
An appeal has @ @ @ @ @ man David Young .
People who have seen David or have any information about his @ @ @ @ @ 101 , quoting the reference 261s290420

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kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-29--Face masks: What is the advice on wearing them in the UK?

Scientists and politicians seem to be split on whether people in the UK should wear face masks to help slow the spread of coronavirus .
Here 's what we know .
What is the UK advice on face masks ?
It is currently not compulsory to wear a mask or face covering and the UK Government is still considering evidence from experts on the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies ( Sage ) .
But Scotland ’ s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said her devolved government was now recommending wearing face masks in public in “ limited circumstances ” , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The new guidance from the Scottish Government , which is not mandatory , suggests wearing face coverings for the mouth and nose made of cloth or fabric , such as a scarf , and not surgical or medical-grade masks .
Public Health England ( PHE ) recommends masks for NHS staff and social care workers but does not suggest other people wear them outside .
London Mayor Sadiq Khan is among those calling for a change in advice to add “ another layer of protection ” to members of the public against Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wearing a non-medical facial covering makes it less likely you may inadvertently give somebody else Covid-19.
” Downing Street said the Prime Minister wanted to maintain a UK-wide response to coronavirus as far as possible but there was no hint of whether the Government would adopt the same policy as Ms Sturgeon .
But there have been growing calls for a change in advice , with Dr Chaand Nagpaul , chairman of the British Medical Association ( BMA ) council , suggesting the public cover their mouths and noses when going outside for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it would make sense to advise the public to wear coverings on a voluntary basis and expects the Government to alter its guidance .
The chairman of the Royal College of General Practitioners Professor Martin Marshall said : “ If ( people ) are coughing and spluttering then it makes complete sense to wear masks in order to protect other people.
” He told the BBC ’ s Today programme : “ I think the guidance that we ’ re expecting to hear is that the wearing of face masks is a voluntary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot of sense to focus limited resources that we have at the moment on those who have greatest need and that ’ s the health professionals.
” Experts have cast doubt on the strength of the evidence on the benefits of face masks .
Last week , chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said the evidence on face masks “ has always been quite variable , quite weak and difficult to know ” .
According to European scientists , there is no evidence that non-medical standard face masks or other covers offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Disease Prevention and Control says that a non-medical mask has a filter efficiency of between two and 38 per cent .
But the World Health Organisation recommends face mask use for people who are taking care of a person with Covid-19 , or if they are coughing or sneezing themselves .
Are there enough masks for key workers and the general public ?
NHS bosses have urged the Government to make sure that there are enough masks for medical staff before making any compulsory orders for the public .
Chris Hopson , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ represents hospitals and NHS trusts in England , asked ministers to “ fully assess ” the potential impact on healthcare supplies .
He said : “ There needs to be clear evidence that wearing masks , along with other measures , will deliver significant enough benefits to take us out of lockdown to potentially jeopardise NHS mask supply.
” Will I be given a mask if they are made compulsory ?
The Government has said it “ can ’ t promise ” everybody will be given a mask for free if the public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hancock was asked the question by former Labour minister Hilary Benn in the House of Commons , and replied : “ I can ’ t promise that we will give everybody free masks , I mean that would be an extraordinary undertaking , and we do have to make sure that we have supplies available especially for health and social care staff , where the scientific advice throughout has been that the wearing of masks is necessary in those circumstances and we ’ ve got to make sure the provision is there for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mask ?
Masks can be made from cloth materials found at home , or items that can be wrapped around the face such as a scarf .
Trish Greenhalgh , professor of primary healthcare at the University of Oxford , told a Royal Society of Medicine web briefing : “ How do you make your own mask ?
You take two pieces of cotton , or a piece of cotton folded over , and you take a pantyliner or something like that [ with ] waterproof backing , you stick it between those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around the back of your ears.
” The main types of mask can be divided into three types – homemade cloth masks , surgical masks and N95 or FFP3 respirators used by healthcare professionals .
In the US , the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) has recommended the use of cloth masks in environments where it may be hard to socially distance .
These can help prevent spreading the virus by coughing , sneezing or speaking .
Surgical masks do not create a seal on the face but are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ droplets and protect medical staff from splashes .
N95 respirator masks can help prevent the spread of small particles , are tight-fitting to the face and can filter up to 95 % of airborne particles , the CDC said .
While medical masks have clear evidence supporting their effectiveness , deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries urged the general public not to use them .
She said : “ The number one thing is , we must leave our medical masks , if you like , for those people that need them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is clear evidence that that is beneficial .
”

Here's what we know.
What is the UK advice on face masks?
It is currently not compulsory to wear a mask or face covering and the UK Government is still considering evidence from experts on the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage).
But Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said her devolved government was now recommending wearing face masks in public in “limited circumstances”, including in shops and on public transport.
The new guidance from the Scottish Government, which is not mandatory, suggests wearing face coverings for the mouth and nose made of cloth or fabric, such as a scarf, and not surgical or medical-grade masks.
Public Health England (PHE) recommends masks for NHS staff and social care workers but does not suggest other people wear them outside.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan is among those calling for a change in advice to add “another layer of protection” to members of the public against Covid-19.
He has previously said: “Wearing a non-medical facial covering makes it less likely you may inadvertently give somebody else Covid-19.”
Will the advice change?
Downing Street said the Prime Minister wanted to maintain a UK-wide response to coronavirus as far as possible but there was no hint of whether the Government would adopt the same policy as Ms Sturgeon.
But there have been growing calls for a change in advice, with Dr Chaand Nagpaul, chairman of the British Medical Association (BMA) council, suggesting the public cover their mouths and noses when going outside for essential reasons.
Another top doctor said it would make sense to advise the public to wear coverings on a voluntary basis and expects the Government to alter its guidance.
The chairman of the Royal College of General Practitioners Professor Martin Marshall said: “If (people) are coughing and spluttering then it makes complete sense to wear masks in order to protect other people.”
He told the BBC’s Today programme: “I think the guidance that we’re expecting to hear is that the wearing of face masks is a voluntary activity not mandated and it certainly makes a lot of sense to focus limited resources that we have at the moment on those who have greatest need and that’s the health professionals.”
Are face masks effective?
Experts have cast doubt on the strength of the evidence on the benefits of face masks.
Last week, chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said the evidence on face masks “has always been quite variable, quite weak and difficult to know”.
According to European scientists, there is no evidence that non-medical standard face masks or other covers offer protection to wearers.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control says that a non-medical mask has a filter efficiency of between two and 38 per cent.
But the World Health Organisation recommends face mask use for people who are taking care of a person with Covid-19, or if they are coughing or sneezing themselves.
Are there enough masks for key workers and the general public?
NHS bosses have urged the Government to make sure that there are enough masks for medical staff before making any compulsory orders for the public.
Chris Hopson, chief executive of NHS Providers, which represents hospitals and NHS trusts in England, asked ministers to “fully assess” the potential impact on healthcare supplies.
He said: “There needs to be clear evidence that wearing masks, along with other measures, will deliver significant enough benefits to take us out of lockdown to potentially jeopardise NHS mask supply.”
Will I be given a mask if they are made compulsory?
The Government has said it “can’t promise” everybody will be given a mask for free if the public are forced to wear them.
Matt Hancock was asked the question by former Labour minister Hilary Benn in the House of Commons, and replied: “I can’t promise that we will give everybody free masks, I mean that would be an extraordinary undertaking, and we do have to make sure that we have supplies available especially for health and social care staff, where the scientific advice throughout has been that the wearing of masks is necessary in those circumstances and we’ve got to make sure the provision is there for them.”
Can you make your own mask?
Masks can be made from cloth materials found at home, or items that can be wrapped around the face such as a scarf.
Trish Greenhalgh, professor of primary healthcare at the University of Oxford, told a Royal Society of Medicine web briefing: “How do you make your own mask? You take two pieces of cotton, or a piece of cotton folded over, and you take a pantyliner or something like that [with] waterproof backing, you stick it between those.
“And then you hook it around the back of your ears.”
What types of mask exist?
The main types of mask can be divided into three types – homemade cloth masks, surgical masks and N95 or FFP3 respirators used by healthcare professionals.
In the US, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended the use of cloth masks in environments where it may be hard to socially distance.
These can help prevent spreading the virus by coughing, sneezing or speaking.
Surgical masks do not create a seal on the face but are designed to prevent the spread of large droplets and protect medical staff from splashes.
N95 respirator masks can help prevent the spread of small particles, are tight-fitting to the face and can filter up to 95% of airborne particles, the CDC said.
While medical masks have clear evidence supporting their effectiveness, deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries urged the general public not to use them.
She said: “The number one thing is, we must leave our medical masks, if you like, for those people that need them at the front line, because there is clear evidence that that is beneficial.”


kidderminstershuttle--2020-04-30--Coronavirus: Worcestershire and national news

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