A message from Council Leader Alan McDermott

I am very conscious that you have a lot to think about at the present time, and there is a constant flow of information coming towards you.

I don’t want to add unnecessarily to that but I do want to take the opportunity to say thank you to everyone across the borough for the essential work, care, support and volunteering that you are doing to ensure that the people and organisations who need help and support during this coronavirus outbreak are receiving it.

You may know that the Council has set up a Community Hub and is working alongside Kent County Council and town and parish councils to ensure that food and support is getting to the right people either directly or through other organisations. It’s an amazing exercise in co-ordination and has been a welcome lifeline for many.

Whether you are a resident or someone who runs a business I hope you know that there is information and help available to you. You can find this on the Council’s website; businesses who are eligible for business rate relief and grants are being contacted by the Council

I am in daily contact with William Benson, the Council’s Chief Executive and I know how hard Council staff are working to ensure that essential services continue to be delivered.

The coronavirus is changing all our lives and what we are being asked to do may sometimes be hard. Please keep following the guidance and directions from central government and play your part in stopping the spread. Stay home and save lives

Finally I am aware that not everyone has access to the internet, so may I ask you to think about your friends and neighbours who may need information or help. There are resources available to help them and we don’t want anyone to slip through the net. Perhaps you are able to get information to them – safely, within social distancing guidelines – or contact someone on their behalf. The Council’s helpline is 01892 554497.

Thank you again for all that you are doing.