There are reasons for optimism after a difficult end of last year and beginning to 2021 in terms of Covid. We are starting to see infection rates gradually fall which is testament to people?s diligence in observing the lockdown rules and hands, face, space guidance. After a relatively slow start in the vaccination programme, we have also started to see steady progress, although it is worrying that over 20% of our over 80s still haven?t been vaccinated. If you have friends and families in their 80s, please help and encourage them to get vaccinated.

You can help others to book their appointment and share tips to help them prepare for their Covid-19 vaccine appointment. You can?read this guide?for important information and get tips on using the swiftqueue booking website by visiting the local NHS website https://nottsccg.nhs.uk/covid-19/covid-19-vaccination-programme-what-you-can-do-to-help/

While the infection rates are falling, they remain higher than we want and there are still large numbers of patients in our hospitals. We must all continue to observe the rules that have helped to get us to this point. We also need to see more people vaccinated. If you receive an invitation for a vaccination, please take it. We are keen to see more people from our BAME communities, as well as personal carers and private homecare workers across the city, come forward for their jabs.

Also, more people can protect their loved ones by getting a free rapid test at Djanogly Leisure Centre ? no need to book, just drop in.

Covid has made life even harder for those who are already struggling financially ? but there is support available. If you don't know how you can pay your bills, our friendly welfare rights team can help Nottingham people get emergency support with energy and other bills. Get in touch now for free help and advice on 0115 915 1355 (weekdays 8:30am ? 4:50pm) or email [email protected]. There?s more information here.

There?s also support available for Nottingham City residents in receipt of Council Tax Support. The Winter Grant Scheme ensures successful applicants are issued with a ?50 supermarket e-voucher to help with food and essential supplies. 10,000 vouchers are currently available as part of this scheme and selected applicants will be chosen on a first-come-first-served basis. With rising food costs, we hope this extra support will ease the strain on some families to help them through these difficult times.

Over the last couple of weeks a consultation has been running on some of the difficult budget decisions Nottingham City Council has to take in the year ahead. I will be holding?two online public meetings?via Zoom next week with Cllr Sam Webster, portfolio holder for finance, as part of the council?s budget consultation and would encourage you to attend if you are able to.

Nottingham City has had to make over ?270m of budget savings due to year-on-year Government funding cuts and increases in demand of our services for older people and children in the council's care. At the same time ?28m costs related to Covid have gone unfunded by Government.? This has consequences for local services and that is why it is important you have a chance to have your say. You can sign up for my online public meetings on Wednesday 10^th?February 1.30pm and Friday 12^th?February 11.30am by emailing?[email protected]. Please also take the time to?fill out the survey.