COVID-19 UPDATE FRIDAY 20th:

The government has escalated the coronavirus response to the second phase – moving from containing the virus to delaying the spread. Recommending Self-isolation, household isolation if anyone shows symptoms and 12 week isolation for any at risk groups.

If you have any symptoms such as:

New continuous cough
High temperature

You will now have to self-isolate for 14 days – this doesn’t require you to call NHS 111 to tell them that you are self-isolating. You should keep in contact with family and friends via the phone. This BBC article looks at what it means to self-isolate and how you should do it.

If you require food or medication – you should contact the relevant services and arrange a delivery. They will have to deliver this to your front door – do not ask them to come into your home. There is also a huge voluntary effort coming from the community to ensure that anyone who needs support can access it. Many of the supermarkets are now offering a exclusive time for the vulnerable to visit.

Here are some more guidelines from the government about how to manage self-isolation and best practice when considering various complications, such as house sharing, single parenting with kids and caregivers. Recommendations, look at trying to stay 2 meters away (3 steps) from those you live with, scheduling times for using the bathroom, regular cleaning and keeping in touch through social media, phone calls, and texts.

There is an online service from NHS 111 here, they ask that you use this first. You should call NHS 111 if…

You cannot cope with your symptoms at home
Your condition gets worse
Your symptoms do not get better after seven days

Wellbeing and the Coronavirus:

Mind has shared some resources here. It is so important that you take care of your mental health at this challenging time. Please use these resources and share them with others.

This is a photo symbol poster that could be of use when talking to individuals who respond better to visual aids.