The Leader of Harrow Council wants to thank everyone on the frontline during these changed times – from the NHS workers and volunteers to those who keep our services going.

Cllr Graham Henson says our dedicated care workers deserve a special thank you as they continue to work round the clock to support those in need.

Meanwhile, a community hub phone line will soon be up and running to to allow Harrow’s most vulnerable to contact the council for support, he adds. Look out for details on the council website soon. Read Cllr Henson’s full statement

We must all play a part in supporting the NHS as it deals with the coronavirus crisis, says Simon Ovens, the Queen’s Representative Deputy Lieutenant for Harrow.

‘As Her Majesty The Queen said, following the rules of staying home and keeping your distance from people is for everyone’s good and will save lives,’ adds Mr Ovens. Read his letter to the residents of Harrow.

For the latest health news and advice about coronavirus (COVID-19) please visit the NHS website or GOV.UK.

Some 6,400 households in Harrow will benefit from a £150 discount to reduce their Council Tax.

The funding is given to everyone who gets Council Tax Support and is of working age. Find out more

See other funding measures available to the most in need in the community on the government website

Scams should be the last thing people have to worry about right now. But please be aware of:

• People offering miracle cures or vaccines.
• Strangers offering home cleaning services or payment upfront to do shopping or collect medication.
• Emails for a tax refund or similar.
• Mobile phone apps claiming to give virus updates.Don’t share personal details. Find out more at the National Crime Agency or  Friends Against Scams

Playgrounds, outdoor gyms and sports courts in all our parks closed this week as we play our part in trying to stop the spread of the virus.

They followed the closures of Harrow Recycling Centre, Harrow Leisure Centre, Bannister Sports Centre and Hatch End Swimming Pool. We are trying to make sure essential services for vulnerable people remain accessible. See latest details about service disruptions.

Measures to help the self-employed and businesses were announced this week by the government.

The Covid-19 Self-employment Income Support Scheme allows you to claim a taxable grant worth 80% of your trading profits up to a maximum of £2,500 per month for the next 3 months. This may be extended. Read more

Retail, hospitality, leisure and childcare businesses also get a 12-month business rates holiday. Find out more

Would you like to help vulnerable people in the borough get the support they need during these uncertain times?

You can donate money or join Harrow volunteers. Find out more You can also sign up to goodsamapp.org/NHS to become NHS Volunteer Responder to:

• deliver medicines from pharmacies.
• drive patients to appointments.
• bring them home from hospital.
• make calls to check on people isolating at home.

Seeing our nearest hospital on the news at the forefront of the NHS effort to save lives may be unsettling.

Rest assured, Northwick Park Hospital is part of a group of hospitals chosen to care for coronavirus patients.

It has experienced doctors, nurses and staff capable of dealing with this type of infectious disease, as well as special facilities to keep everyone safe. Read more