Partners across York have joined together to launch a new campaign to remind residents of the importance of working together in the fight against coronavirus.

With cases remaining very high both nationally and locally, ‘my covid story’ features real-life covid experiences of people living and working in York.

The campaign features stories of residents who have had coronavirus and are living with ‘long covid’, as well as health care staff caring for covid patients at York Hospital.

Heartfelt and moving, the stories paint a clear picture of the impact of coronavirus on the lives of local people. 

The campaign is being supported by a range of partners in the city, including representatives from the city’s professional sporting teams.

Cllr Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council, said:

I know that everyone is tired of the national restrictions and the impact on their lives, but with coronavirus, we can’t afford to be complacent. These real-life stories show us just how important it is that we continue to work together to reduce the transmission of the virus in York.

“Understanding the huge impact that coronavirus is having right here in the city, for people living and working in York, helps us all to recognise the bigger picture. We all have a role to play in keeping the people we love, and the places we love, safe. Let’s keep working together York.”

Sharon Stoltz, Director of Public Health, City of York Council, said:

With the national vaccination programme continuing at pace, there is light at the end of the tunnel. We know that York residents and businesses have worked incredibly hard to reduce the spread of Coronavirus in York, but with the new variant increasing infection rates, we need to redouble our efforts and keep working together.

“The most effective way we can reduce the spread of coronavirus in York is by following the Government guidance on social distancing and remembering Hands Face Space. By working together, we really can make a difference.”

Partners involved in the campaign include local residents, City of York Council, York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, York City Football Club, York City Knights.

Simon Morritt, Chief Executive, York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said:

The number of Covid-positive inpatients in our hospitals is now higher than the number we experienced in the first wave, and the virus remains a very real threat.  

It is so important that people do everything they can to stop the virus from spreading. Please follow the guidance of hands, face, space, stick to the lockdown rules, and get a test if you have symptoms.”

York City Football Club Chairman Jason McGill said:

Covid guidelines are incredibly important and are in place to keep us safe. We're proud to be able to use the club's profile within the community, to help support the council in their efforts to share this important message. The club, our staff and players wish everyone in York and the surrounding areas well in these challenging times. 

Jon Flatman, Chairman of York City Knights, said:

This pandemic had a significant impact on all our lives. I know first-hand how devastating this can be, having lost my father to covid.

“We know the next few months are going to be incredibly challenging and we can only hope that with a vaccine, and a lower number of cases, we can all return to safely enjoy to the pastimes we love and treasure dearly. 

“But first we all have a job to do - to stay at home and look after each other.  This will help protect the NHS and save lives.”

To find out more about tackling coronavirus in York visit www.york.gov.uk/coronavirus