Nottinghamshire Police and agencies across the city and county are urging the public to comply with social distancing measures this Bank Holiday weekend.
While the NHS works tirelessly to provide care for those suffering with COVID-19, the force has reminded the public of the role we all play in beating this disease and encourages the public to adhere to the guidance issued by the Government.
The force has also added its voice to a video released today by NHS Nottingham pleading to the people of Nottingham to stay at home.
Chief Constable Craig Guildford said: “Every day we are seeing hundreds of people dying from this disease in the UK, if that does not serve as enough of a reason for you to comply with these measures, then we will be increasing our enforcement activities.
“The messages have been out there and conscious choices to ignore the guidance will have consequences. Enforcement is always our last resort but one which will be taken to protect everyone. We must give the NHS a fighting chance to defeat this disease and that will only be achieved by working together.
“The only way we are going to get through this is by staying at home in order to protect the NHS, which will save lives.
“We want the public to work with us through this unprecedented time and our officers will continue to engage with anyone who is not following social distancing measures.
“As I have mentioned previously, we police by consent and have no desire to proactively prosecute people. While enforcement is a last resort for those who persistently flout the law, be under no illusions that we can, and will, use our powers if necessary.”
Paddy Tipping, PCC for Nottinghamshire, said: “The more we all stay at home unless it’s essential to leave it, the quicker we will all come through this. Everyone can play their part in tackling this virus, whether that is as a frontline worker or simply by doing what we are asked to do. The weather looks promising and I feel for people who want to get out and about with their friends, but this time, it’s just not an option.
“Please, stay at home, don’t put more pressure on the police and public services, particularly the NHS. By staying at home you can help to save lives. It’s that simple.”
