'COVID Champions' feature in the council's planned response to outbreaks during phase two of tackling the pandemic.

Its outbreak management plan describes how local expertise will be used to manage outbreaks while also providing support for vulnerable people.

The focus is on preventing the disease from spreading and controlling outbreaks swiftly to protect the local community and borough. The council will provide advice, information and support via a specialist team.

The 'Covid Champions' will be trained in basic infection control to support protective measures that prevent infection and enable rapid response.

A council spokesperson said: "Much of the work will be based around prevention of new infections.

"This is the single most effective method of reducing transmission and outbreaks of COVID-19 and will include providing information and reminders to help people protect themselves through measures including frequent handwashing and social distancing, as well as advice about what to do if people develop symptoms."

In addition, the authority will support local organisations, businesses, community groups and the faith sector to safely reopen advising on risk assessments, providing guidance and advice.

Local testing will provide an accessible and timely service prioritising those working in complex settings, such as care homes.

When there is a suspected or confirmed case of Covid-19 the work will focus on "controlling further transmission and managing a suspected or confirmed outbreak of COVID-19 with specialist support and advice".

Outbreaks can be reported to the council via www.wirral.gov.uk/covid19outbreak

Council leader, Cllr Pat Hackett, said: "I would urge everyone to take note of the Plan and the actions we are asking them to take to keep themselves, their families and neighbourhoods free from COVID-19.

"We need to work together to ensure we can keep our community safe.

"This outbreak management plan will be crucial to ensuring we keep Wirral well and protect everyone in our community."

Organisations can report suspected outbreaks at www.wirral.gov.uk/covid19outbreak