Fertility, testing pop ups, re-openings and more

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Coronavirus: Step 2 is underway

We are now almost two weeks into Step 2 of the Government's roadmap. Outdoor gatherings of either six people or two households are allowed, including in private gardens, and outdoor sports facilities are open.

Non-essential shops, public buildings, outdoor hospitality, most outdoor attractions, personal care premises such as hairdressers, indoor leisure facilities such as swimming pools and self-contained accommodation are also open. If you want further information on Step 2 click here ([link removed]) .

Even with these restrictions lifted, others remain. For example, you should continue to work from home where possible, and overseas travel remains banned, aside for a small number of reasons. It is also really important to wear a face mask, social distance and not be tempted to go indoors when socialising. By following the basic guidance you are helping to limit the spread of the virus.

Remember: Hands, Face, Space, Fresh Air.
Further information on the latest local guidance is available here: www.oldham.gov.uk/coronavirus
Coronavirus testing – know your options
If you are showing Coronavirus symptoms, you can get a PCR test at:
* Southgate Street, next to Oldham Library
* Peel Street, Chadderton
* Honeywell Centre, Hadfield Street

You must book an appointment online.
Find out more by visiting www.oldham.gov.uk/testing_with_symptoms

If you are not showing Coronavirus symptoms, there are a number of options for rapid lateral flow tests. You can:
* Get a test at one of our pop-up sites
* Get tested at a number of pharmacies across Oldham
* Collect home testing kits from locations across Oldham
* Order kits online

Find out more by visiting www.oldham.gov.uk/testing_without_symptoms

Remember to always wear a mask and socially distance when visiting one of our testing sites.
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Rapid testing pop ups
If you are not showing Coronavirus symptoms but want a test you can visit one of our pop ups testing sites:
* Unit 61, Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre – on the Upper Level (next to the YMCA Charity Shop) 
* Chadderton Wellbeing Centre, Burnley Street – opposite Asda

Both sites are open Monday to Saturday from 9am–4pm.
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The Coronavirus vaccine and fertility
We understand misinformation has been circulating online about Covid-19 vaccines and fertility may be putting some women off having the vaccine.

However, there is ‘no evidence’ that Covid-19 vaccines can affect the fertility of women or men, says expert guidance from the Association of Reproductive and Clinical Scientists and the British Fertility Society. To read more on this click here ([link removed]) .
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Early years survey – we want to hear your thoughts
If you have a child aged 0–5, or are an expectant parent living in Oldham we want to hear what you think about how we can help you support your child’s health, development and learning in their early years.

If this is something you’re interested in, book your place here ([link removed]) by no later than Friday 29 April 2021.

All sessions are scheduled to last for one hour and will be held using Zoom. If you have any questions, email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .
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Thought about adoption?
A new nationwide campaign ‘#YOUCANADOPT’ recently launched to encourage those considering adoption to think about adopting brothers and sisters together.

Currently there are 2,030 children waiting to be adopted in England, with approximately 44% of those in family groups of two or more, so there’s a real need to keep these children together. So, if you are interested in adopting siblings or want to find out more contact Adoption Now on 01204 336096 or visit www.adoptionnow.org.uk.
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Helping young people get ready for their Post-16 options
Oldham Council is working with Positive Steps Careers Service to look at ways to support Year 11s after what has been a very difficult and unusual year. We want to know how we can provide activities to help our young people make the most of the summer and what support they might need to make a successful transition to their post 16 option.

Suggestions are welcome from both school leavers and parents/carers. If you'd like to help, fill in this quick survey here ([link removed]) .
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Oldham Local Studies and Archives ready to re-open
Good news for those of you researching your family history, the Local Studies and Archives is opening on Wednesday 28 April. For opening times and to book a visit click here ([link removed]) .
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Get your steps in with the GM Walking Festival
Whether you’re a stroller, roamer, shuffler, moocher or a marcher the Greater Manchester Walking Festival has something for everyone, with guides for those new to walking as well as regular striders.

Back for the seventh year, it runs from Saturday 1 - Monday 31 May during National Walking Month, and offers ideas and inspiration to inspire everyone to get outside and explore towns, cities, the countryside, canals, riversides and parks across Oldham and beyond. Find out more here ([link removed]) .
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Give us a wave
Next week our Doorstep Coronavirus Engagement Team will be visiting residents in Alt and Freehold. They'll be chatting with you and sharing the latest information. Please note, our team always carry Oldham Council identification.
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Stuck filling in your Census? Oldham Libraries can help
Staff at Oldham and Crompton Libraries are now able to offer face to face Census support appointments. The appointments last for one hour and can be made by phoning 0161 770 8000 or by emailing [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) . Phone appointments are also still available to anyone who can’t get to the library in person.
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Recently, Officers from GMP delivered dates and sweets to children on St Mary's Estate as part of an initiative led and funded by the Community Safety and Cohesion Partnership (supported by Morrisons).
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For more information and advice about council services, visit
** www.oldham.gov.uk/coronavirus ([link removed])
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** Facebook ([link removed])
** Twitter ([link removed])
** Email (mailto:[email protected])
** Website ([link removed])

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Oldham Council . Civic Centre . West Street . Oldham, OL1 1UT . United Kingdom