I am disappointed to see our borough move into tier 2, but fully understand why. The change of an area’s Tier level is informed by both scientific, political considerations and local context. A key flag for the move to tier 2 is when rates exceed 100 per 100,000, this was the point neighbouring authorities who were in the previous regime, transferred into tier 2. Dudley now exceeds that level.
The move into Tier 2, which places Dudley on a par with all our neighbouring local authorities, has been triggered by realisation that the rise in coronavirus transmission has not being contained through existing local measures. At present the rates in Dudley are doubling every fortnight, and we know from contact tracing information that there is widespread transmission of coronavirus within and between households. This is already having a significant impact on admissions of patients with COVID-19 to Russells Hall Hospital and it is increasing the pressure on their intensive care unit.
I believe it’s important to acknowledge that so many people in Dudley have been doing the right thing, which is why we remained Tier 1 longer than any neighbours, and for that I thank them. This has bought our local NHS and care homes precious extra time.
We can only defeat this virus if we work together and strictly adhere to guidance. I am pleased to see the Government have committed additional funds to help borough’s like Dudley impacted by this virus. So far, the Government has given Dudley borough over £35million worth of support. I will continue to work closely with the authority and Public Health to help ensure we safeguard the most vulnerable.
