Scaremongering COVID-19 article does not reflect local position, says Richmond Council

The Daily Express have published a report outlining 36 boroughs who are allegedly at risk of lockdown – placing Richmond upon Thames on their list.

Whilst coronavirus has not been eradicated from the borough, Richmond upon Thames generally has a very low rate of cases compared to other London boroughs.

From the start of the pandemic in March to Sunday 28 June 2020, Richmond upon Thames has seen a total of 418 confirmed cases and 145 deaths. In the week leading up to Sunday 28 June, there were only two confirmed cases.

It is entirely expected that cases will begin to rise as people begin to emerge from lockdown and the Government’s Test and Trace programme expands.

It is important that residents understand that whilst the current numbers in the borough are low, the risk of coronavirus has not gone away.

Local people are reminded to stay vigilant, adhering to the Government guidance – washing hands regularly, social distancing and wearing face masks on public transport.

If you do feel unwell, self-isolate immediately and apply for a COVID-19 test.

Cllr Piers Allen, Chair of the Adult Social Care and Housing Committee, and Chair of the Richmond Health and Wellbeing Board, added:

"Despite reports in the national papers, Richmond is not about to go into another lockdown. It is grossly irresponsible of the Daily Express to publish a report without double checking their information first.

"However, it would be naive to suggest that we haven’t got any local cases – but compared to elsewhere in the country, our numbers are low.

"We want to rid our borough of coronavirus – and we can only do this if residents play their part.

"Should we ever be in a position where we do have a local outbreak, we will be publishing our plan later this week on how we would work with our local partners to respond.”

See an update of local figures.