The Cheshire & Merseyside (C&M) Directors of Public (DsPH) currently meet for weekly calls. The key messages from the 15th January meeting are as follows:
- North West Test and Trace Pilot – The DsPH discussed a national piece of work to develop a test and trace operating model. It was agreed to feedback to the North West group that C&M would like to build on local structures already operating and build a contact tracing system fit for purpose in the future.
- C&M COVID vaccination programme
a. DsPH received an update from Dianne Draper from PHE including the new C&M mass vaccination site located in St Helens which opens on Monday 18th January. It was acknowledged that there are issues regarding access to data and data sharing. Dianne confirmed that this is something she is advocating for and which the North West DsPH are raising as a collective.
b. Edna Boampong from the Health & Care Partnership delivered a presentation on plans for vaccine communications. DsPH were asked if they could support the recording of the ‘trusted voice’ videos and the provision of gaining access to local plans. The focus of the communications work will be to amplify the national messages and focus on the hard to reach such as BAME groups and the vulnerable to reduce inequalities. It will also tackle misinformation. - COVID-19 Guidelines – A Cheshire & Warrington LRF letter has been drafted regarding adherence to the guidelines for supermarkets and DsPH are working with local sports bodies on COVID guidelines.
- Good News and Gratitude
a. Sefton have employed two new public health leads (Julie Hayes and Laura Whitfield) and Warrington have employed a new Public Health Constant (Dr Andrea Sanabria). Welcome to all colleagues.
b. Testing sites for key workers in Warrington (Halliwell Jones Stadium and Grappenhall Cricket Club) are working well. Thanks to everyone who has helped set up the sites.