Council staff have been redeployed to act as ‘town centre support assistants’ to give help, advice and support for businesses and public during the current pandemic.
They are, according to ABC Council, there to provide an essential service and act as a welcoming and approachable point of contact within urban centres for businesses, customers and visitors who require general advice or clarification in relation to council services, including Covid-19 restrictions.
Initially they will be deployed during peak times including weekends, but this may be increased in line with town centre requirements and Covid-19 guidance.
As well as offering advice, the assistants will be able to report back to council or other partner organisation any concerns or issues brought to their attention as they arise, ensuring swift and effective action.
The team will also be acting in a support role to the council’s other services including identifying areas that impact on the overall safety of town centres such as street cleaning, maintenance and environmental issues,
Speaking of the new initiative, Lord Mayor Kevin Savage said he was “delighted” to see them take up their new role “to offer help and reassurance to all on our high streets”.
He added: “We are living in very difficult and sometimes confusing times and our new support assistants will be a great asset to our community and help to create a safe, friendly town centre environment.
“I would ask everyone to extend a warm welcome to the new town centre support assistants across our borough and to make use of their expertise as we work together in overcoming the many challenges we are all currently facing.”
