The rate of Covid-19 is beginning to fall in Nottingham as the impact of national lockdown begins to slow the spread of the virus. This is encouraging news for our city and for the country as a whole, which is also seeing a decrease in positive cases. Nottingham?s rate is now 455 cases of Covid-19 for every 100,000 people, down from the peak of 537 last week. While this shows lockdown measures are working, it is still higher than we would like ? and is a clear indication that we have to continue to follow the rules and stay at home.

Playing our part to stop the spread of Covid-19 will help to keep people safe while the vaccination is rolled out. People aged over 80 are among the first to get the vaccination ? and, by tomorrow, everyone who is 80 or older in the city should have had their official invite letter from the NHS to book their vaccination.

If you are over 80, or know someone who is over 80, please make sure the letter has been received and the appointment has been booked.

Nottingham City Council, working with Nottingham City Homes and partners, have just started work on?106 new?council homes for affordable rent?on land at Whitcombe Gardens, the site of the former Eastglade school in Top Valley.?As well as providing?homes, which are high quality, warm, energy efficient and safe, the development will also include green and?open space for the community to enjoy.

The new properties,?which will be a mix of?one bed flats, two bed and three bed houses,?will be managed by Nottingham City Homes on behalf of the council.?For more click here

Today is ?Blue Monday? ? thought to be one of the more depressing days of the year (even before Covid). In difficult times, it?s more important than ever that we stay connected, even if we have to keep a physical distance. So why not reach out to friends, family or a colleague today for a virtual cuppa and catch-up.

If you or someone you know is struggling, there is help available: ?

• To find local organisations that can support you visit AskLion: mental health during COVID-19
• The Every Mind Matters website provides some helpful resources that can help you cope with change, worry and loneliness
• If you?re not feeling okay, you can get in touch with the Samaritans for support 24/7. Call free on 116 123 or go online