In my first message of 2022, I want to wish everyone in Croydon a safe and healthy new year.
Tackling serious youth violence
As a council our focus for 2022 remains firmly on supporting and protecting Croydon’s communities, particularly as we recover from Covid-19. I am horrified at the increase in youth violence throughout our capital. I know everyone in Croydon will share both my deep sadness at the tragic death of 15 year-old Zaian Aimable-Lina, and my determination that this senseless violence must end. Too many young lives have been lost and although tackling youth violence has long been a priority for us, the police, our partners and many in our communities, we must all redouble our efforts. Young people, their safety and wellbeing is a priority for everyone in Croydon – only together will we make change happen.
Covid-19 update
As I’m sure everyone is aware, Covid-19 case numbers in Croydon remain high. The government has announced that we will continue to follow Plan B so the most important things we can all do to stay safe are:
- Get vaccinated – so many people in Croydon have responded to the call to have their Covid-19 vaccinations in the past month which is fantastic and we need to keep this up. Book your appointment or find a local walk-in clinic.
- Use lateral flow tests before meeting others and daily if you have been a close contact with someone who has tested positive. Order tests online.
- If you test positive by lateral flow or PCR, protect others by following the latest government guidance on when to isolate. From 11 January, the rules on PCR tests are changing. If you test positive on lateral flow, but do not have symptoms, you will not need to book a confirmatory PCR test – just start your isolation period immediately.
- Follow the guidance on wearing face coverings in shops, on public transport, libraries and other public places – you can find the full list here.
Supporting our businesses
While vital for our safety, the introduction of Covid-19 restrictions before Christmas has had a devastating impact on some of our businesses. We distributed another £800k to help those in the leisure and hospitality sector, who were hardest hit by cancellations at what should have been their busiest time of year. We will continue to do everything we can to help – if you are a business in need of support find out what is available. Most importantly, if you live in Croydon, please make it your new year’s resolution to shop local where you can.
Have a good weekend and stay safe
Councillor Hamida Ali, leader of the council
