City briefing

We will update this page with our City Briefing each time a new issue is published. This is to keep everyone updated on the action we're taking during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. You can read previous city briefings on our archive page.

3:45pm - Friday 18 September

NEW: Covid-19 alert level and guidance for the city

Our new weekly update from our Public Health team will help you keep up to date about the current rate of confirmed cases in Brighton & Hove and how you can help prevent the spread of the virus. It will be updated every Wednesday.

Read more in our newsroom

Covid-19 tests must be pre-booked

Nationally there is now very high demand for coronavirus tests. To help ensure the people that really need to get a test can please:

only request a test if you have Covid-19 symptoms or have been advised to have a test

keep trying to book through the NHS website or by calling 119

self-isolate immediately for 10 days if you have symptoms and all household members also need to stay at home

The mobile testing unit will be based at Brighton Racecourse this weekend. It is drive-in only and appointments will need to be booked in advance.

Read more in our newsroom

Funfair on The Level to close today

We’ve asked the funfair on The Level to close following advice from our Public Health team.

The decision to close the funfair sooner than scheduled is due to the changing situation nationally and locally about the number of people with Covid-19.

Read more on our newsroom

NHS Covid-19 app to launch next week

The government is due to launch a new NHS COVID-19 app on Thursday 24 September. It will feature a QR code scanner so people can check in to venues and be alerted in the event that they have been in contact with someone who has tested positive.

The app will provide advice and any actions you need to take around self-isolating or getting a test. It will additionally let users know if the local area becomes high risk.

All leisure, hospitality, sports and faith venues that the public visit will need to display their own QR code poster so customers can check in quickly and easily. To get a code that is personalised to their business they will need to register on the government website.

More information will be shared nationally and locally about this next week. Find out more about the NHS Covid-19 app

Look out for your neighbours

If you haven’t seen your neighbours in a while, or you know that they live alone, please find a way to say hello. You might be able to easily help them with something that they’ve been struggling with or even knowing someone cares can mean a lot.

Without someone to talk to, seemingly simple questions can become overwhelming. Can I use cash? Are the buses running? Do I have to queue in the supermarket? How do I put on a mask, or where can I get them from? Can I see my GP? Is everywhere in the city busy or are there quieter place? Answering their simple questions can reduce weeks, or even months of concerns.

Some people need support with simple tasks, like shopping or colleting medicines. Others might want help to get online.

In some cases, there may be a hidden struggle with more serious problems that need medical or specialist support. Talking to people and encouraging them to get help can be life-saving.

Read more about how to help your neighbours in our newsroom.

Jewish High Holy Days and the rule of six

From Friday, Jewish communities will be marking the High Holy Days. Have a look at the latest guidance to help celebrate safely.

Read more in our newsroom.