Newsletters - August 2020

Small businesses and the tourism sector across Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay will be able to apply for grants of up to £3,000 through the Growth Support Kickstart Grant Scheme. Our Deputy Director of Public Health has issued guidance to commuters and other car sharers as they head back to work or are out and about. The second stage of the government’s Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) opened for applications earlier this week. Thousands of students across Devon got their GCSE results today – it’s been a particularly challenging year learning remotely over the last few months so you should all be proud of yourselves – well done!

Coronavirus has highlighted the importance of health and social care workers more than ever, and with certain sectors experiencing workforce shortages, we’re encouraging 16 to 25-year olds in particular to consider a career in the sector. Public Health England has been looking at the wider impacts of COVID-19, and at smoking and drinking habits, physical activity, how people are spending their time and grocery purchasing behaviour. There’s help for everyone in Devon* who wants to improve their health. One Small Step Devon is a free service that gives support to people wanting to make lifestyle changes and improve their health.

Temperatures are set to soar this weekend, so please make sure you take extra care and stay safe in the sunshine. During the coronavirus pandemic a heatwave is potentially even more dangerous, especially to those who are already vulnerable to the virus or are having to self-isolate at home. Hot weather means our bodies work harder to maintain an inner core temperature, putting extra strain on the heart and lungs. That extra strain, coupled with fluid and salt loss through sweating, can lead to specific heat-related health effects and illness such as dehydration and heatstroke. Overheating can also make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing.