Pic: Bracknell Forest Council Even as we continue on the roadmap out of the coronavirus lockdown, and towards what is hopefully a much brighter future, we understand that the financial burden caused by the virus will remain for many people. “We recognise the pressures families in Bracknell Forest are still under and are committed to continuing to provide them with essential support where needed. The council had already committed to funding school children in most need, so they do not go hungry during the May half term holidays. The announcement that there was to be an additional government grant has come as welcome news.
The annual season of fasting, devotion and charity in the Islamic calendar begins on Monday, April 12. Muslims in Bracknell and the wider area have been encouraged to follow Muslim Council of Britain guidance this Ramadan. It is the second year that the Ramadan season has been disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic. Fasting during Ramadan is considered obligatory for all adult Muslims unless they are acutely or chronically ill, travelling, elderly, breastfeeding, diabetic, or menstruating. The fasting period lasts from sunrise to sunset. Adherents are allowed to eat before dawn, called the Suhur, and after sundown, called the Iftar. In usual years, Muslims would gather in Mosques and congregations for Iftar, however, this has been disallowed because of pandemic restrictions.
If workers test positive, they and their close contacts should isolate at home immediately. Councillor Paul Bettison, Leader of Bracknell Forest Council, said: “Our number one priority is to keep residents as safe and well as possible and bring down our case rates. “These community testing centres will help us to identify those who could, unknowingly, be spreading the virus. “This will not only help protect our community but also help to protect local businesses from outbreaks within their workforce. “If you are eligible for community testing due to your job, please do come forward and get your twice-weekly tests.
Testing is available for everyone, with additional support for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities. Cllr Paul Bettison, Leader of Bracknell Forest Council, said: “I’m really pleased that Bracknell Forest residents now have a walk-through centre much closer to home – it will make testing for COVID-19 even more convenient. “If you have symptoms, it’s really important that you self-isolate straight away, alongside your household, and apply for a test at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119. “By taking swift action if you have any of the symptoms, you can help reduce the risk of passing the virus on to your family, friends and community.”