Coronavirus: How counties are combating the spread of the virus and leading efforts to rebuild

The emergence of a second wave of the Coronavirus has brought fresh challenges for the country, but once again county and unitary authorities in the CCN have stepped up: showing their breadth of support for their local communities and to assist national endeavours, whilst looking to the future and what their economies could look like.

This publication is the second of our best practice documents featuring 29 case studies that demonstrate how CCN member councils have risen to the numerous challenges posed by the second wave of the pandemic across three themes; playing a major role in the national effort; helping those that need it the most; and recovering & renewing economies.

You can download the publication here.

Utilising their experience of the first lockdown, the report shows more essential frontline services continue to operate safely and securely. Most importantly, CCN member councils are continuing to play a lead part in efforts to vanquish the virus, more recently through mass testing and the roll out of vaccinations. Equally, they have adapted their support to offer bespoke help to individuals and businesses that need it the most in their areas.

But our councils are looking to the future in recognition that things will not be the same and putting in plans to reshape their economies. And, as leaders of place, they are considering how they help address the deep social and health inequalities created by the pandemic, and rethink the way their own organisations will operate in the future.

Cllr David Williams, chairman of the County Councils Network, said:

“Those working in local government can be proud of their vital contributions during the pandemic to the national effort and keeping the show on the road locally.

“This document highlights the innovative work being done by county authorities across the country in combating the virus, targeting help to the heart of our communities, and in the work to rebuild local economies.”

It is the second such publication on CCN member councils crucial role in responding to the Covid-19 pandemic. The first one was released last spring which you can download here.