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Keep going Oldham

As we get closer to the next step on the Government's roadmap it's really important that you follow the restrictions of Step 2. This means sticking to outdoor gatherings of either six people or two households – don't be tempted to go indoors when socialising. For further information on Step 2 click here ([link removed]) .

It is also still important that you continue to work from home where possible, wear a face covering and social distance. 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
The latest on the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine
Following a decision by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) most adults under the age of 40 will now be given an alternative to the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine due to a link with rare blood clots.

Everybody who has already had a first dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine should receive a second dose of the same jab, irrespective of age, except for the very small number of people who experienced blood clots with low platelet counts from their first vaccination.
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Celebrate Eid safely
Over the last year all of us have had to make sacrifices – including not being able to celebrate events like we would normally do. This year it will be the same for Eid al Fitr, which takes place next week.

It is understandable you will want to spend time with your family and friends and everyone who is celebrating deserves to have a great day. But it’s also important everyone stays safe.

Please continue to protect yourself, your family and the vulnerable. Don’t go out if you have symptoms and it’s really important that you continue to get tested. For more information on testing click here ([link removed]) .
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Local and GM Mayoral Elections
Last night and over the course of today, results from local elections across the country were declared. To find out the results in Oldham click here ([link removed]) .

The results for the Greater Manchester Mayoral elections will be announced tomorrow. For more information, click here ([link removed] ) .
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Mental health awareness week
During the pandemic, many of us have turned to nature as a way of getting through it, and so it's no surprise that it is the theme for this year's Mental Health Awareness Week which starts on Monday. For top tips, support and more information click here ([link removed]) .
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Foster care fortnight starts on Monday
We are excited to be celebrating this year’s Foster Care Fortnight by sharing with you a video of our foster carers, staff and care leavers talking about why fostering is important to them.

Now more than ever, we need foster families for our children and young people. So if you have ever thought about fostering why not watch our video here ([link removed]) and see if it inspires you to take the next step?

For more information on fostering call us on 0161 770 6600 or visit www.oldham.gov.uk/fostering
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Summit Up Climbing
Exciting news! Oldham’s newest family climbing centre is due to open in August 2021.

It will feature the North of England’s highest and largest Clip ’n Climb wall as well as rope climbing and bouldering facilities for novice to advanced climbers. There will also be two ValoClimb walls that use the ‘world's first’ interactive gaming technology. There’s even a soft play area to keep smaller children entertained.

You can follow the progress of the centre on Facebook here ([link removed]) .
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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 – next week they will be at Spindles Shopping Centre and Royton Town Hall
* 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 face covering and socially distance when visiting one of our testing sites.
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For more information and advice about council services, visit
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** Email (mailto:[email protected])
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Oldham Council . Civic Centre . West Street . Oldham, OL1 1UT . United Kingdom