Children have suffered enough throughout lockdown. We are hearing increasing reports of the spread of Covid-19 from pubs, bars and restaurants. With over 20 establishments reporting closure due to covid cases this weekend alone. 

I am calling for an urgent review of existing guidance for these establishments throughout the pandemic. It seems this is the tipping point now schools have reopened as cases have increased. 

We are hearing reports of a working mans club in Sunderland/Durham border that held an event with 300 attendees. The local public health have reported 28 have tested positive but this has resulted in the closure and further restrictions on local schools. 

In our local area this has directly impacted our schools with some closing in the first week of reopening. This is devastating for our children, not to mention the teachers who have helped to transition our children back to school after such a long period of absence.

Local lockdowns will impact children, parents and the local economy. I appreciate the economy needs to stay open, but if bars and restaurants cannot operate safely, we must put our children’s education and welfare first and protect those businesses who have adapted safely.