Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats

Cllr Michael Headley has uploaded a helpful new video in which he explains how to receive news and information from him and his Putnoe Ward colleague Cllr Max Royden, and from Bedford Borough Council, during the coronavirus crisis.

Like local residents across Bedford Borough, Liberal Democrat Ward Councillors are staying at home and so can't keep in touch via the usual Focus newsletters.

Local businesses can apply for a business support grant via the Council's website if they meet the Government's qualifying criteria.

The Government has announced a range of grant funding for certain businesses affected by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Bedford Borough Council has set up an online form, enabling local businesses to apply for this money.

Mayor Dave Hodgson has delivered a crucial message via a new video in which he urges everyone to follow the official advice and guidance and to help themselves and others to stay safe.

In the video Mayor Dave stresses that it's important that we fight coronavirus by following the Government's advice to stay at home, to stay safe.

Bedford Borough Council has closed all play areas, effective immediately, to minimise the spread of coronavirus.

This closure includes all play areas including those in parks, multi-use games areas, skateparks and outdoor gym equipment. Signs will be put in place at all play parks.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Charles Royden, Portfolio Holder for Environment said "Surfaces such as in children's play areas present a significant risk to the spread of coronavirus. To reduce the spread of coronavirus and reduce the risk of the virus being passed on we have reluctantly taken the decision to close these high contact areas. The Council is keeping our parks open at the moment, to give people space to walk, exercise and to help their mental wellbeing and we really recognise the value of these spaces. We would urge people to follow the Government's social distancing guidelines when using their local park; stay away from other people for yours and their safety. "

Bedford Borough Council continues to update its coronavirus webpage with all changes to council services and other important information. Updates on Saturday 21st March included the closure of all libraries, barring the limited exception of Bedford Central Library, which will be open today, Sunday 22nd March, from midday - 2pm for the use of public computers by library users only.

Mayor Dave Hodgson has recorded a video message about the Council's new Community Hub. You can view the message here.

You can find key details, including links to online forms to request or to offer help on the Council website here.

Alternatively, if you need any help you can call the Community Hub on 01234 718101 or email Covid19Help@Bedford.gov.uk.

Mayor Dave Hodgson has announced that Bedford Borough Council has arranged with bus companies to give local bus pass holders free travel during peak time.

Normally, the elderly and vulnerable who use their bus pass pay £1 to travel before 9.30am. However, with a number of shops offering special opening times first thing in the morning for older people to do any shopping that they need to at this time, it is hoped that this change will make it a little easier for this group.

If you are healthy and looking at ways you can help Bedford Borough Council to support people who are self-isolating, the Council would like to hear from you.

It is establishing a community hub that will pull together volunteers, assist individuals self-isolating and seek to match both groups.

If you'd like to get involved, please email Bedford Borough Council at covid19@bedford.gov.uk.