We all now know that a national lockdown, subject to a parliamentary vote, is expected to be imposed by Government from this Thursday. This is due to rising numbers of hospital admissions threatening to overwhelm the NHS both locally and nationally. It?s incredibly frustrating that the announcement came just a day after Tier 3 restrictions were finally implemented in Nottingham, after huge efforts locally to prepare. The Government?s handling of this has been inefficient and unhelpful and creates uncertainty for people and businesses. However, we remain in Tier 3 and it is incumbent on all of us to follow those rules and prepare for the national lockdown later this week.

Many of the national lockdown rules echo those for Tier 3. The core guidance of thorough handwashing, wearing face coverings and socially distancing remain in place. You should not travel outside the area except for specified reasons and avoid public transport if possible, you should work from home if you can, children should continue to go to school and you must not meet socially indoors or in private gardens with family or friends, unless they are part of your household or support bubble.

Further details on the national lockdown rules will follow and we will of course provide updates on support that will be available for local people and businesses. All our efforts under Tier 2 and Tier 3 restrictions are having an effect, with overall numbers of cases falling in the city, so we need to keep this up so that we?re in a good position in a month?s time.

For further Government guidance on the new national restrictions visit New National Restrictions from 5 November

This global pandemic brings not just stress and worry about our own health and that of our loved ones, but the lockdown will unavoidably lead to increased isolation, money worries and make some of our usual coping mechanisms inaccessible.

Now more than ever, we need to be kind to ourselves and prioritise our mental health. To find local organisations that can support you visit AskLion: mental health during COVID-19

The Mental Health Foundation has put together a fantastic online resource to help people cope with this public health crisis. At www.mentalhealth.org.uk/coronavirus you can find tips for looking after your wellbeing whilst balancing responsibilities such as work, studying and parenting through this pandemic.?

The Ask Lion website has put together a page of information to help people manage their finances over the outbreak and to highlight local organisations that can help people who are experiencing financial difficulties. Visit Financial Help during COVID-19?to find out more.