Leeds news LIVE: Pilot scheme launched to encourage coronavirus testing and help with self-isolation | Vaccine update
and live on Freeview channel 276
New pilot schemes are being launched across England in a bid to encourage people to get tested for Covid-19 and follow self-isolation rules.
The pilots will involve increased social care support for vulnerable adults, “buddying” services for people needing mental health support and translation assistance for non-English speakers.
Yorkshire and the Humber is included in the pilot areas.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe Government announced on Sunday that 60.6 million first and second vaccine doses had been administered since December 8.
The number of second doses administered in the UK hit a daily record on Saturday, with 556,951.
Scroll down for more and the latest Leeds news:
Leeds news LIVE: Man dies after collision near St James’ Hospital
Key Events
Pictures reveal aftermath of fire as investigations continue on site
Our photographer James Hardisty has been along to AutoFix in Dewsbury Road following last night’s fire.
These pictures show the continuing activity surrounding the site, including work by police forensics teams who often support fire investigators in gathering evidence and establishing the cause of a fire.
Armed police make arrests over machete incidents
Armed police made arrests in Leeds this weekend as part of an investigation into two incidents involving machetes.
The incidents in Harehills and Woodhouse on Saturday afternoon are being linked, according to a statement released this morning.
Three of the four men arrested are also suspected of drugs offences.
Fire at Beeston motor services business as buses are diverted from Dewsbury Road
A large fire at a business in Beeston led to the closure of Dewsbury Road this morning, with buses being diverted until the road could be safely reopened.
Here’s what we know so far: Large blaze at Beeston motor services business
Vaccine update
The Government announced on Sunday that 60.6 million first and second vaccine doses had been administered since December 8.
The figure includes 37.9 million people who have received a first dose, 72 per cent of the UK population, and 22.6 million have had both (43 per cent).
The number of second doses administered in the UK hit a daily record on Saturday, with 556,951.
The Government continued to urge people to get a second dose to stay protected from new coronavirus variants.
Mr Hancock said: “Shortly after vaccinating over 70 per cent of adults in the UK with a first dose, we have hit yet another incredible milestone with over 60 million doses delivered in total.
“Our trailblazing vaccination programme, the biggest and most successful in NHS history, is another great British success story and a testament to what can be achieved when all four corners of the country come together to defeat this virus.”
Some 762,361 first and second doses were administered on Saturday, the highest daily combined total since March 20.
Meanwhile, a study by Public Health England (PHE) found that the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine is 88 per cent effective against the Indian variant of coronavirus after two doses.
The study, which took place between April 5 and May 16, found that the jab was almost as effective against symptomatic disease from the B1617.2 strain as it was against the Kent variant, with 93 per cent effectiveness.
The AstraZeneca jab was 60 per cent effective, compared with 66 per cent against the Kent variant over the same period.
Both vaccines were 33 per cent effective against symptomatic disease from the Indian variant three weeks after the first dose, compared with about 50% against the Kent strain.
Pilot scheme to offer alternative accommodation for self-isolation
The pilots will involve increased social care support for vulnerable adults, “buddying” services for people needing mental health support and translation assistance for non-English speakers.
People isolating in overcrowded houses in the trial areas will also be offered alternative accommodation.
The Government has allocated £11.9 million towards the pilots, split between local authorities in nine areas with high infection rates.
The local authority areas include Yorkshire and the Humber, along with Newham and Hackney in London, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Merseyside, Peterborough and Somerset.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “We recognise just how challenging self-isolation is for many people and these pilots will help us find the best ways to support people and making it easier for everyone to keep doing their bit.”
News this morning
Leeds mum who had cancer op cancelled due to Covid has now had surgery
A Leeds mum whose cancer operation was cancelled because of the Covid pandemic is looking forward to spending the summer with her family after undergoing the surgery.
Gin school launches in Leeds city centre - giving you the chance to create your very own gin
A UK gin specialist is making its splash in Leeds with the launch of a new gin school which will see participants creating their own gin available to order again and again.
Culture and what's on this week in Leeds as venues make the most of reopening
From comedy to music and sport, there's something for everyone happening in Leeds this week.
Comment Guidelines
National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.