The Chair invited Board Members to provide an update on COVID-19:

• David Brown (University Hospital Plymouth Trust) shared a presentation on Phase 2 focusing on recovery and Phase 3 dealing with COVID through winter period.

·         Claire Hill (Deputy CEO Mannamead WBH) reported that charities quickly responded to lockdown and planning taking place for a second local lockdown.

·         Anna Coles (Service Director for Integrated Commissioning) and Craig McArdle (Strategic Director for People) reported on PPE response and co-ordination with the distribution of over half million items.  Caring for Plymouth helped 7k people and looked at how they deliver care differently with more services being undertaken remotely.   Accommodation support for workers within the care home sector from the hotel sector, shared staffing and great support from the PCC communications team.

·         Ruth Harrell (Director for Public Health) reported that this was a new disease and the challenge was understanding the disease.  The whole system has pulled together and has been incredible working together as a health and social care system in helping people, supporting each other and the most vulnerable.

·         Judith Harwood (Service Director for Education, Skills and Participation) reported on the challenges of suspected cases in schools, working closely with partners on how to respond and keeping abreast of the guidance.  Preparations in place for September and deploying large number of staff to ensure families were stable and supported.

·         Nick Pennell (Healthwatch) reported that this was a challenging time for Healthwatch.   They were adapting to new modes of engagement using zoom, social media/phone calls. However this can also provide a digital divide with a small number of groups that could be excluded.  They were currently carrying out a survey responses from people that have been shielding and hope to circulate that report shortly.  They have also produced regular updates on advice and guidance.  

·         Michelle Thomas (Livewell SW) reported that following central guidance, planned services were switched off and they reviewed the waiting the list, worked with the staff to move them around, provided training and discharged people as soon as they became fit.  Working with the mental health teams to ensure people feel supported and away from the front door of the hospital by providing a hub for people to visit.  They have expanded the 24/7 crisis support for adults and children and need to be mindful of the long term impact on mental health moving forward.

The Chair thanked each of the partner organisations for their update.