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Norwich City Council praises "invaluable" work of Covid-19 support officers

Published on Thursday, 16th September 2021

Norwich City Council has thanked its dedicated team of Covid-19 support officers for their “invaluable” work through the pandemic, as it takes the decision to wind down the public-facing role.

From the end of this month, the side of the team who work in the city centre will no longer be out and about and the stall they occupied on Norwich Market will close.

The move comes as the government continues to ease Covid-19 restrictions and people need less support with safety guidance around the virus.   

The city council will instead focus on its enhanced test and trace service – supporting those who need to carry out PCR tests or need help with isolation. This work is carried out by the other side of the council’s Covid-19 support officer team.

Cllr Alan Waters, Leader of Norwich City Council, said: “Our Covid-19 support officers have provided an invaluable service to the city, during what has been a challenging time.

“They have worked hard to ensure everyone has remained as safe as possible and I thank each and every one of them for their considerable efforts in helping to protect Norwich.

“As we all know, this an ever-evolving situation and if the situation in the city changes, we are ready to stand an additional team of Covid-19 support officers back up to help keep people safe out in the city. This will add to the work that continues on test and trace.”

The Covid-19 support officers started their roles in Norwich in October 2020. At that point, they all worked out in the city, helping people stay safe through social distancing, the use of face coverings and hand sanitiser. They also supported businesses with following the changing government guidance. 

The support officer role evolved as national guidance changed and people became more aware of how to keep themselves and others safe. This saw part of the team moved to work on enhanced test and trace – a role that will continue at the council.

These officers continue to get in touch with people who have had close contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19, but haven’t been traced through the government app.

They offer advice on accessing tests and self-isolating and assist with any medications or food that people need while they isolate.

Norwich City Council continues to support residents and local businesses through the pandemic, providing support and information on everything from health and safety to testing and vaccinations.

For more information, please visit the Covid-19 pages of our website. 

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