Dear resident,

First, a very happy Easter to you all.  I hope you are able to enjoy the weather safely and that those of you with children and grandchildren are keeping them entertained whist following the no socialising rules.  I’m missing my own daughter who was due to be spending the long weekend here in Rutland and sadly my contact with her is now only electronic.  Please don’t be tempted to visit grandparents or let your children play with children from another family; social distancing is still essential.  However, if you want something to amuse your children Visions Children’s Centre has come up with some ideas https://www.visionsccc.co.uk/sessions  as has Rutland Museum https://rutlandcountymuseum.org.uk/kids-crafts/

Not all children are safe and happy, however, and RCC has recently issued a press release about safeguarding children.  Here is part of it “Since the introduction of social distancing measures, brought in to limit the spread of coronavirus, the Council has seen a drop in reports to their safeguarding team. Council experts are concerned that, despite this drop, cases of child abuse may be on the rise, with fewer opportunities for it to be seen, reported and stopped. They are calling on residents to help make sure children are kept safe. If you have any concerns or something doesn’t look right, please let us know. Across the county front doors are being kept closed. But our door is always open.  Residents are asked to look and listen out for signs that may indicate abuse:

*           Very young children being left on their own

*           Children looking dirty or not changing their clothes

*           Children are withdrawn or anxious

*           Aggressive or repeated shouting

*           Sounds of hitting or banging and things being broken

*           Children crying for long periods of time

*           Relatives denied access to talk to children by phone or video call

To report concerns about children’s welfare call 01572 758 407 or email childrensreferrals@rutland.gov.uk <mailto:childrensreferrals@rutland.gov.uk> .

If a child is in immediate danger call 999 and ask for the police.”

Despite this lovely weather please don’t be tempted beyond your own garden other than necessary food shopping, a medical appointment or your own exercise.  And don’t be tempted to have a house (or garden) party.  The NHS needs us to keep lockdown so it doesn’t become overwhelmed.  Stay safe.  Stay happy.

Gale Waller

County Councillor, Normanton Ward

gwaller@rutland.gov.uk 01780 722169