Marshal plan aims to reduce Covid cases across Norfolk

With the new tiered system of coronavirus restrictions set to come into force tomorrow, council leaders in Norfolk have outlined plans for Covid marshals to help reduce cases.

West Norfolk Council officials say the presence of personnel advising people on the rules relating to the pandemic have already made a positive impact here.

And district authorities are employing others in similar roles as part of efforts to help ease restrictions further over the coming weeks.

Under the three-tiered system which is due to come into effect from Wednesday, Norfolk will be in tier two, meaning high alert and including restrictions such as pubs only being allowed to sell alcohol as part of a "substantial meal."

But officials hope that the work of the marshals, together with continuing public compliance, will mean the county can move into the lowest tier of restrictions.

Tom McCabe, chairman of the county's resilience forum, said today: “Many Covid-19 marshals and support officers have been in place for some weeks now, supporting businesses and helping to encourage, engage and educate people in how to protect themselves and those around them.

“The feedback on their role has largely been really positive, with our communities recognising that these officers are working with them to keep us all safe.

“The role is likely to evolve over the coming weeks and months as we move different types of restrictions with the expected changes to local and national regulations, but they will continue to be out on the streets and will be happy to help where they can."

Ten Covid support staff have been recruited by Breckland Council, who will provide advice and support to businesses, engage with residents and support with the track-and-trace and door-knocking work in the community.

The authority has also appointed two compliance officers to help enforce the rules.

Meanwhile, North Norfolk District Council has appointed six support officers who will work in the district's main towns, including Fakenham.