I hope you all had a restful bank holiday weekend, and that those across our city celebrating Passover, Easter and Vaisakhi were able to find ways to do so within current restrictions. I have heard heart-warming reports of different faith communities pulling together to support communities during the coronavirus pandemic and I know that in happier times, families and friends would have come together to celebrate these occasions. I want to thank them and everyone in Nottingham who resisted the temptation to meet up, by following public health and Government guidance to stay at home and keep each other safe while such gatherings are not possible. Deserted streets and parks over a Bank Holiday is not something we?d normally be pleased about, but it?s testament to Nottingham people?s willingness to play their part in this national effort.

I know that staying home throughout this crisis is frustrating but I want to ask that we all take a moment to reflect on those who are still working hard to keep us safe and continue to provide goods and services in our moments of need. Among those who deserve respect and courtesy are shop staff who are continuing to work hard in trying times.

Carers across the city are providing a vital lifeline for many of our most vulnerable people and we are still urgently seeking staff. The more we can look after people in their own homes rather than in hospital, the more the NHS can focus on saving lives. We have a number of opportunities for those looking to give something back during this time.

• You will be fully paid
• You will be trained ? no previous experience is necessary, just a desire to care for others
• Your DBS check will be paid for
• We will support your application; interviews will be carried out by phone
• Work will be assigned close to your home
• You will be designated ?critical worker? status
• Personal protective equipment will be provided when needed

Whether you are thinking about returning to the sector or starting a new career you can find more information and how to apply here Nottingham City Council Social Care Jobs

Finally, you may have used the Bank Holiday weekend, and the ongoing good weather, to carry out jobs in the garden. However, we had to place the garden waste collections on hold so our crews can focus on collecting household waste, so you will need to store garden waste at home for the time-being. Composting is a good option, you can easily create a heap in the garden and turn it regularly. Alternatively you could invest in a compost bin to store your garden waste. Good advice is available here Recycle Now

Please do not have a bonfire, it is unpleasant for your neighbours and there is growing evidence that cleaner air helps people fight off the virus. Reports of smoke nuisance will be taken seriously by Community Protection.