We are really grateful to everyone in Hertfordshire for playing their part and helping to keep case rates of Covid-19 low. During half-term, and as restrictions ease more generally, it’s more important than ever that we follow current guidance to help keep each other safe and our nurseries, schools and colleges free from outbreaks.
We’re asking that parents and carers do not send children back into education if they are sick or feel unwell. If you or your child(ren) have symptoms, please self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test at: www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test
You can read the latest guidance in full at: www.gov.uk/coronavirus
Support for families
This is a challenging time for everyone, and we want you know that help and support is available for anyone who needs it in Hertfordshire. HertsHelp can provide free, confidential advice and practical help for things like food, essential bills and emotional support.
Call 0300 123 4044, email info@hertshelp.net or visit www.hertshelp.net
Travelling within the UK
If you do go away, you should aim to do so safely. For instance, one of our close neighbours, Bedford, has a high number of cases and people are being advised to avoid travelling in and out of the area unless it is essential. You can find the latest travel guidance for England and the rest of the UK at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/covid-19-coronavirus-restrictions-what-you-can-and-cannot-do#travelling-within-the-uk-the-republic-of-ireland-and-the-channel-islands
Travelling internationally from England
There are no longer any restrictions on leaving England to travel internationally, however to protect public health in the UK and the vaccine rollout, you should not travel to countries or territories on the red or amber lists.
If you do need to travel to an Amber destination for an emergency, you must update nurseries, schools or colleges attended by your child(ren) and follow the guidance around mandatory quarantine and testing. Please do not send children back to nursery, school or college without completing the mandatory quarantine period
Testing at home with Lateral Flow Devices (rapid tests)
To help reduce the risk of outbreaks following half term we would be grateful if you could ensure that children in year 7 and above take a rapid test with a lateral flow device on Sunday 6 June ahead of their return.
If they receive a positive result, they must begin self-isolating immediately and book a confirmatory PCR test. Any student with symptoms of Covid-19 or feeling unwell should take a PCR test immediately and not attend school.
Parents and carers of children of school age are also encouraged to take regular rapid tests. You can find your nearest collection site or order online at: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/rapidtest. Please only complete rapid tests on children in year 7 and above.
We hope you enjoy half-term and remember – hands, face, space, fresh air and test. These key things will help to keep you and your loved ones safe.
