TRIBUTE has been paid to the work of people across the district in helping the most vulnerable during the coronavirus emergency.

Bradford Council leader Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe said the local authority and partner organisations were working “round the clock” to maintain essential services and support those worst affected by the crisis.

She praised the public, volunteers, council staff, charities and partners for their efforts.

“I want to say thank-you to the people and organisations of the district for doing all they can to rise to this unprecedented challenge,” she said.

“The resolve, determination and kindness of the people is what will get us through.

“Now more than ever we need to listen to the strong public health messages about this virus.

“We must all stay at home as much as possible. Only venture out if you are a key worker who can’t work from home or if you need food or essentials, but do so as infrequently as possible and stay at least two metres from anyone else.

“We’re working to get support out to those who need it most and are continually adjusting and co-ordinating this response so that all communities get the help they require.”

A report providing an update on the fast-changing situation was tabled at a meeting of the council’s executive, which was held by telephone between portfolio holders and senior officers.

Issues discussed around the response to the crisis included the care of older people, child safeguarding, schools and meals provision, foodbanks, helping the homeless, community hubs, business grants and supporting key workers.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, executive member for healthy people and places, received assurances that the authority was working with care homes to protect older and vulnerable people. She asked that everything possible be done to ensure health and care staff have the personal protective equipment needed to do their jobs safely.

And Councillor Imran Khan, the council’s deputy leader and executive member for education, employment and skills, praised schools for their role providing help during the emergency.

“I want to thank teachers and school staff who are doing a fantastic job at this incredibly challenging time by looking after vulnerable youngsters and the children of key workers,” he said.

“Initially we had 205 schools and maintained nurseries open and although it will be an ever-changing picture, people can be reassured that we have sufficient flexibility and capacity in the system for that invaluable service to continue.” The meeting also heard about the council-led network of community hubs set-up to act as bases for each area of the district.