More than 150 people reported for breaking lockdown rules in Wolverhampton

Although the majority of locals are following government guidelines, a small number are not – and Wolverhampton Council alongside West Midlands Police and Wolverhampton Homes are working together to tackle this.

As of Tuesday (may 12) since lockdown began 156 reports have been made of people breaking the social distancing guidelines.

A total of 235 advisory letters have been delivered to residents by police. Four official warning letters were also issued, while last week the courts issued an emergency injunction in order to protect a vulnerable resident who is isolating.

Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the authority's health chief, said: "Social distancing measures have generally been very well complied with by local residents, and this is really important because the best way to stop the spread of coronavirus is to reduce our contact with other people.

"That means staying at home as much as possible and keeping at least two metres away from others when we are out and about.

"However, a very small number continue to not follow the rules, for instance by hosting gatherings or parties which contravene the social distancing guidance. Each report is assessed by the Anti-Social Behaviour Team, and in some cases a phone call to the residents concerned has been enough. If not, the authorities have other powers at their disposal.

"We have also been working closely with social housing landlords who are also following this approach which we hope will help keep the issue under control, although it's worth reiterating that the vast majority of people have been following the guidelines to the letter, and we thank them for their continuing co-operation at this time."

Darren Baggs, Wolverhampton Homes' assistant director for housing, said: "It is pleasing that a vast majority are following the guidance to the letter to protect themselves, their families and other frontline key workers.

“When we are alerted to instances that present a risk, we have responded, and in the main those we have needed to contact have changed their behaviour.

“With a population in the region of 260,000 across the city, it is pleasing to see only 156 complaints have been received which demonstrates how seriously the residents of Wolverhampton have taken this situation.”

Chief Superintendent Andy Beard from Wolverhampton Police added: “I would like to thank the vast majority of people in Wolverhampton who continue to act responsibly in line with government restrictions.

“Our officers are patrolling across our city engaging with people, explaining the restrictions and encouraging people to comply, with enforcement being a last resort.”