After a single case of the Coronavirus variant originating in South Africa was discovered in the EN10 area HCC was tasked with arranging widespread testing in the EN10 area. In line with the government’s request that as many people as possible be contacted and tested within a two week period. In line with our policy of responding rapidly to the demands that the pandemic continued to throw at us we were able to take immediate action working in tandem with colleagues and community groups which included volunteers, Broxbourne District Council, East Herts Council, Uttlesford Council, Essex Fire and Rescue, Essex County Council, British Red Cross and more.. Within a few short days two new testing centres were established, two collection points put in place resulting in over 10,500 tests being carried out.
At the Association of Public Health Directors and Local Government Association Public Conference Baroness Dido Harding lavished praise on Hertfordshire’s efforts. Cllr. Tim Hutchings, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Prevention said, “It’s great to receive such recognition but in truth it was just another example of the magnificent work my officers and our partners have been doing throughout the pandemic. I am truly proud of their efforts”.
