In partnership with CVS Falkirk & District, the Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry would like to invite third sector groups and organisations from Falkirk District to a virtual roundtable discussion on Wednesday 26 June, 2-4pm, online via Teams. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with representatives from the Inquiry and discuss key issues and impacts of…
COVID-19
Winter Vaccination Programme Underway
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has issued advice for the Winter COVID-19 and flu programme, recommending that those most at risk, or those who come into regular contact with those most at risk, will soon become eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine dose to maximise their protection over winter. Where possible, this will be co-administered with the flu vaccine, which has been identified as a safe and effective way to deliver protection.
Planned Closure of COVID-19 Special Helpline
NHS 24 has announced the planned closure of its COVID-19 special helpline. From 4pm on next Thursday 30th June, the helpline will formally close. This is due to the changes in guidance in terms of public-wide testing, and staying at home advice.
VHS Survey on COVID-19 Vaccine Inclusion and Partnership Working
Voluntary Health Scotland (VHS) is conducting research on the extent to which the COVID-19 vaccine rollout in Scotland sought to reduce inequalities and foster collaboration with the third sector. They have launched an online survey to gather views, which should take around 15 minutes to complete. The deadline for responses is next Friday 17th June.
COVID-19 Update: Changes to Self-Isolation and Testing Requirements
From Sunday 1st May, most people in Scotland no longer need to take a COVID-19 test if they suspect they have the virus, and should follow guidance on staying at home if unwell. Testing remains available to specific groups, and advice has been published for people on the Highest Risk List. As the threat level in Scotland is currently at medium, self-isolation is no longer required by law. However, Scottish Government advise people in Scotland to continue to use “COVID sense” in containing the spread of the virus.
COVID-19 Update: Vaccinations for 5 – 11 Year Olds
All children aged 5 – 11 years old are now eligible for the first of 2 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, following clinical advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which was issued in February 2022. Appointments are now being sent out to those with parental responsibility, with vaccination taking place in community clinics.
COVID-19 Update: Upcoming Changes to Legislation and Guidance
Due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in Scotland, Scottish Government has confirmed that the legal requirement to wear face coverings on public transport and most indoor public settings will continue until at least Monday 4th April. This will be reviewed and revised as required. All other COVID-19 legal restrictions will move to guidance as planned, on Monday 21st March, including legal requirements for hospitality businesses and service providers to collect customer details for contact tracing. However, people are asked to be mindful of the Distance Aware scheme, and other people’s space and comfort.
NHS Forth Valley COVID-19 Response Grants Scheme Update
NHS Forth Valley has closed their COVID-19 Response Grants Scheme for 2021-22. They are reviewing the scheme and will provide an update for the next financial year via the dedicated webpage.
COVID-19 Update: Hybrid Working in Scotland
Scottish Government has announced that, as of Monday 31st January, businesses can prepare to resume hybrid working, enabling more people to have a flexible return to working between home and the office. However, the First Minister advised that a mass return to offices is “likely to set progress back”, and recommended a more phased return.
COVID-19 Update: Additional Restrictions Changing
Scottish Government has announced that, as of Monday 24th January, the additional restrictions put in place before Christmas will end, including: an end to 1 metre distancing and table service in hospitality; no attendance limits at indoor events; face coverings must continue to be worn in public places and on public transport (exemptions apply).
