Senior council figures have put politics aside to praise the work of the borough’s care staff, who continue to offer vital services during the coronavirus outbreak.

More than 950 staff are working around the clock to ensure thousands of people in the borough receive care and support. Speaking directly to those staff, Councillor Nicolas Barlow, Dudley Council’s cabinet member for health and adult social care, said:

"On behalf of local MPs, the council’s cabinet and shadow cabinet, I would like to send a big thank you to every single member of care staff. They continue to go out every day to protect and support our most vulnerable and elderly residents.

"Unlike many, our care staff don’t have the option to work from home. They are under increasing pressure in these unprecedented times we find ourselves in but continue to be true professionals as they serve our residents and keep them safe and well.

"Their work does not go unnoticed. We are all incredibly proud and cannot thank you enough."

Councillor Cathy Bayton, shadow cabinet member for health and adult social care, said:

"I echo Councillor Barlow’s comment, we will be forever grateful to all our care staff who are going above and beyond in the line of duty.

"This isn’t forgetting the wonderful staff within the NHS and other frontline staff across the council who are also doing a fantastic job to keep services going.

"We urge local residents to show their thanks by continuing to stay at home and follow the national advice."

Last week, Dudley Council House and Himley Hall were lit in blue and green, the blue in honour of NHS workers and the green to represent care workers and other frontline staff.

For more information about coronavirus and its impact on services in Dudley borough go to dudley.gov.uk.