Coronavirus: Council to lead Leicestershire’s new trace and test service

Local authorities across England are being given a share of £300million by the government to develop tailored outbreak control plans, working with the local NHS and other stakeholders.

Work on the plans will start immediately, focusing on identifying and containing potential outbreaks in places such as workplaces, housing complexes, care homes and schools.

As part of this work, County Hall will also need to ensure testing capacity is deployed effectively to high-risk locations.

Local communities, organisations and individuals will also be encouraged to follow government guidance and assist those self-isolating in their area who need help.

The county council says it is now awaiting further details from the government about the service and the role which they will play.

The authority’s leader, Councillor Nick Rushton, said: “We see this as a very positive step forward for local people as we continue to support the fight against Covid-19.

“The work we’ll engage in will give our public health officers a greater opportunity to ensure their work supports the need of our communities.”

Last week, the county council received around £6.6million to support care home providers to tackle the spread of Covid-19.

It expects to receive some additional funding to support their role in the trace and test service.