Wigan residents thanked for staying at home and helping to save lives

Public spaces were noticeably quieter this weekend and everyone across the borough is being urged to carry this on, especially over the upcoming Easter weekend.

Staying at home as much as possible, practising social distancing measures and self-isolating if someone in the household is displaying symptoms are all measures designed to reduce the spread of Covid-19.

Following these guidelines is expected to have a huge impact on reducing the strain on the NHS and public services.

Coun David Molyneux, leader of Wigan Council, said: “The measures have been brought in for a reason and we would like to thank each and every person for sticking to them.

“We realise that over Easter weekend in particular it may be even more difficult to be away from loved ones, friends and family.

“But by staying at home you are protecting not only yourselves and your family, you are protecting the whole community, especially our vulnerable residents.”

National guidelines advise that residents should only leave their homes for essentials such as food or medicine, for work if working from home is not possible, or to exercise.

If leaving home is required, everyone is asked to keep two metres apart from others.

Silas Nicholls, chief executive of Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the borough's hospitals, said: “We really appreciate our local community staying home and helping us to save lives.

“Work has commenced at pace on our new emergency coronavirus ward at Wigan Infirmary - named the Bryn ward - which is expected to be operational and care for patients related to Covid-19 by May 2 at the latest.

“By staying home, you are giving us the time we need to put in place our plans and tackle this virus head on.”

For more information about Wigan Council’s response to the Covid-19 outbreak and its community hubs, visit www.wigan.gov.uk/bekind and click on "community hubs and volunteering".

If you are in need of support, call 01942 489018.

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