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For the first time, all three stakeholder groups have agreed a joint national approach to the crisis. The fire service organisations say that the measures in the agreement reflect the scale of the national crisis and the urgency of the response required. Under the agreement, firefighters will be able to:  Deliver essential items like food and medicines to vulnerable people Drive ambulances and assist ambulance staff Retrieve dead bodies, should the outbreak cause mass casualties Firefighters will continue responding to core emergencies, such as fires and road traffic collisions, but

Retired care workers being asked to return to work could help support those most at risk of the coronavirus outbreak and provide a much-needed boost to an already over-stretched social care workforce, say council leaders.

Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Chair of the LGA’s Culture, Tourism and Sport Board, responds to Arts Council England’s announcement to provide £160 million for the cultural sector.

“We are pleased that councils will now be able to provide much-needed support to many households on the lowest incomes by quickly reducing or removing the need for them to pay council tax."

Cllr Richard Watts responds to plans by the Chancellor to invest £7 billion into the welfare system.

“Across the country, councils and their staff - are on the frontline in the battle against this disease"

"This extra funding will be crucial to support the tireless efforts of council social care staff to continue to support and protect people who rely of social care."

“The LGA has been calling for councils and fire services to be given effective powers and meaningful sanctions to ensure residents are safe – and feel safe - in their homes."

“These figures highlight the extreme pressures homelessness services continue to be under, as a result of rising demand driven by a severe shortage of social housing."

"Today’s decision provides much needed clarity for head teachers, parents and families."