Statement from Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, on Merseyside watch list status

Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, has responded to the inclusion of the Merseyside local authorities on Public Health England’s watch list of areas with increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases.  (Halton is not included on the watch list.)  He said:

“Over the past week we have seen a rapid increase in Coronavirus cases across the Liverpool City Region. We are not yet at the stage of having extra restrictions imposed on us – as other areas have – but, if we continue on our current trajectory, it will become a case of when, not if this happens.  

“There is still time for us to stop that happening – but doing so depends on us and what we choose to do. I am working hard with our local councils and other partners to do everything in our power to keep the spread of the virus under control, but we cannot do that without your help. 

“Every day I am exceptionally proud to lead a region as kind, friendly and community-spirited as ours. We now need to stick to those principles and make sure that we look out for one another.  

“Washing your hands, wearing a face covering and keeping to social distancing has never been more important. So please follow the advice and act responsibly to help keep yourself and others safe, and help us slow the spread of this disease.”

Key advice

• Stay at least 2 metres away from anyone you do not live with or who is not in your support bubble
• Wash your hands with soap and water often, and as soon as you get home
• Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water not available
• Wear a face covering over your mouth and nose where social distancing is not possible outdoors and indoors
• By law, you must now wear face coverings in most indoor settings including public transport, shops, post-offices, banks, beauty salons, visitor attractions and entertainment venues, libraries, community centres, places of worship and public areas in hotels. Only use Covid Safe businesses who are following the government guidance.
• If unwell to stay at home and if Coronavirus symptoms develop, then get tested
• Follow Track and Trace advice and if notified, to stay at home for 14 days

READ MORE: Stark warning as Liverpool named as COVID-19 ‘area of concern’