A weekly update on what's happening in Oldham and the latest Covid news and guidance

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Government introduce Winter Plan B

Following the announcement that the Government has brought in its Winter Plan B, we're urging residents to follow the new guidance to keep us safe and out of further restrictions:
* From today, mandatory face coverings will be extended to most public venues, including theatres and cinemas.
* From Monday 13 December, guidance to work from home will be reintroduced for those who can do so.
* From Wednesday 15 December, the NHS Covid pass will be mandatory for entry into nightclubs and venues where larger crowds gather.

These are in addition to the following measures that are currently in place:
* Face coverings are compulsory in shops and on public transport.
* All international arrivals must take a day 2 PCR test and self-isolate until they receive a negative result.
* All contacts of suspected Omicron cases must self-isolate for 10 days, regardless of their vaccination status.
* Pupils, staff, and visitors at all schools and childcare settings, should wear face coverings in communal areas.

The Government has brought in these additional measures to tackle a rise in Omicron Covid cases which is thought to be highly transmittable and spreads more easily. The Winter Plan B measures are aimed at lowering the chance of the virus spreading and reducing pressure on the NHS.

In the next few days, details of where face coverings must be worn and where Covid passes must be shown will be updated on the gov.uk website ([link removed])

Details of how to get a Covid Pass are on the NHS website ([link removed])
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Oldham Covid cases

Over the past 7 days, Oldham's Covid rate is 328 per 100,000 population, which is higher than the rate of 311 for the previous 7 days.

Over 73% of Oldham residents have now had their first and second vaccine. For more details on where to get vaccinated in Oldham visit our website ([link removed])
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Vaccinations and Boosters

Getting vaccinated is still the best way to reduce the spread and severity of the virus.

If you are aged 12 or over, you will need to book an appointment online. If you are 16 or over, you can visit one of our local vaccine clinics without an appointment.

Booster jabs are available to anyone aged 40 or over or one of the eligible groups.

Book your jab ([link removed])
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Don't miss our Brass Monkeys Festival tomorrow!

There’s nothing more seasonal than the sound of brass and after a year away we’re pleased to announce the return of the Brass Monkeys Festival, with the very best local and national brass bands playing side by side and providing the perfect musical backdrop for Christmas shoppers.

We’ve got performances from:
* The Black Dyke Band
* Uppermill Brass Band
* Back Chat Brass
* Young musicians from Oldham Music Service

They’ll be in Parliament Square, Oldham Parish Church and at the Wow Bed outside Spindles from 11am.

Find out more by visiting our Christmas 2021 webpage ([link removed])
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Trusted People

Our Youth Service and Oldham Street Angels have launched a new initiative – Trusted People – aimed at helping women and girls feel safe and confident when using the tram network.

Metrolink has had a huge impact on Oldham, it’s made it so much easier for everyone to get around and connected the town better with the City region.

Thousands of people use the tram every day, but it’s unacceptable that a small number of women and girls cannot use public transport without feeling unsafe or being harassed.

The teams are offering a friendly face around the Oldham tram stops in case residents are feeling uneasy, especially as the winter nights draw in.

Find out more about Trusted People ([link removed])

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Find out more about our exciting town centre plans

The Big Oldham Conversation on your new town centre continues with another opportunity to see the plans and give us your views.

Tomorrow (11 December), we’ll have a team set up in Spindles Town Square, outside Greggs, from 11am-3pm. Feel free to pop along, ask questions and feedback.

The plans include the redevelopment of Spindles Town Square, a brand new town centre park, new theatre and much more.

If you are coming along, please remember to wear a face covering unless exempt, and follow the latest coronavirus guidance.

You can also get involved and have your say online ([link removed] )

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We know that for many people in Oldham winter can be difficult.

With the Covid pandemic still ongoing and the rising cost of basic goods, it's a tough time for many families
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that's why we want you to know that we can help.

We've come together with our partners to offer families a little more help to get them through a tough winter.

We’ve put together a range of advice from organisations across Oldham so you can find support when you need it.

You can find advice on mental health, parenting, finances, free school meals, heating your home, benefits, help dealing with drug or alcohol problems, safeguarding advice and more.

Find out how We Can Help ([link removed])
[link removed] Holiday Activities and Food programme

Places are now available for our winter Holiday Activities and Food programme.

With a variety of free activities lined up for children in Oldham, aged between 5 and 16, including trips to the pantomime, cooking sessions, festive arts and crafts and a range of physical sessions, now's the time to start booking!

HAF places, which include a healthy hot meal, are primarily for children who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals, however our local providers are offering some places to those who aren’t, so it’s best to check with them beforehand as there may be a cost.

Find out more about our winter Holiday Activities and Food programme ([link removed])
[link removed]'s?mc_cid=4a574ab48c&mc_eid=UNIQID Walls competition

Have you seen our #ChristmasinOldham animation? If so, you may have spotted our tribute to local Olympian Matt Walls.

Matt's appearance is obvious in one scene, but he's hidden in there a few more times, which is why we’ve created the 'Where’s Walls?' competition.

For a chance to win one of five £50 Love2shop vouchers to use towards your Christmas shopping, visit our Facebook page and watch the clip,then send us a message telling us how many times you think he appears.

Competition closes at 12noon on Friday, 17 December.

Enter now! ([link removed])
Roadworks notice

We are currently resurfacing Huddersfield Road, Diggle. In order to do this safely, the road has been closed between Standedge Road and Spurn Lane/Ward Lane and is expected to reopen on Sunday, 12 December.

Access in and out of Diggle village will be using the existing diversion route via Standedge Road or via Ward Lane. The route will be fully sign posted. Access will be provided at all times for residents and businesses located within the closed area and also for emergency vehicles. Traffic marshals will be on hand to assist drivers.

Thank you for your patience while these essential works are carried out.
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Oldham Council . Civic Centre . West Street . Oldham, OL1 1UT . United Kingdom