Coronavirus - COVID-19

The outbreak of Coronavirus (Covid-19) is likely to reshape how organisations and communities support vulnerable populations, particularly those who may need to or want to self isolate for a long period of time over the peak of the virus period.  Organised social groups and gatherings may need to be reduced significantly through social distancing but communities and individuals will adapt like never before to ensure that nobody is left behind.

We will collate a range on resources on this page to help share and promote good practice, keep people well and help to prevent loneliness during this difficult period.

Very Brief Intervention

Ask

COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It's caused by a virus called coronavirus.

It is important to access the latest advice from reputable sources as advice can change.  We recommend that advice is sought from:

.gov.uk websites (UK Government websites)

.nhs.uk websites (Advice from the National Health Service), NHS 111 advise on Covid-19

Are you aware of the latest advice on how to prevent catching and spreading the Coronavirus?

As the advice is regularly updated, please click the link below to access the latest advice

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

What can you do to support people in your local community?

It is particularly important for people who

  • are 70 or over
  • have a long-term condition
  • are pregnant
  • have a weakened immune system

People in these groups have been asked to apply social distancing, you can support people who are doing this by asking if you could:

Pick up shopping, drop off a letter to post, collect a prescription, give a them a friendly call, or even add them to a local community What's app group.

Assist

The mental Health charity Mind has a range for useful resources for people to stay well when they are social distancing.

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing/#collapse77384

This website also has some great advice around the importance of social connections...as social distancing is not social isolation!

Support people to make plans to video chat with people or groups they would normally see in person

Encourage people to arrange phone calls or send instant messages or texts.

Make a plan with someone to watch a show or read a book separately so that you can discuss it when you contact each other.

Encourage people to join a local community Facebook or What's App Group

Encourage people to try and include physical activity into their daily routine

if possible. Most of us don’t have exercise equipment like treadmills where we live, but there are still activities you can do. Exercising at home can be simple and there are options for most ages and abilities, such as:

  • cleaning your home 
  • dancing to music
  • going up and down stairs
  • seated exercises
  • online exercise workouts that you can follow
  • sitting less – if you notice you’ve been sitting down for an hour, just getting up or changing position can help

Act

Advice on Coronavirus and wellbeing

Information and Support from the Mental Health Charity Mind.   You might be worried about coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) and how it could affect your life. This may include being asked to stay at home or avoid other people. 

This might feel difficult or stressful. But there are lots of things you can try that could help your wellbeing.

Website:  https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing/#collapse28d18

Contact Cards

Help your neighbours - #viralkindness contact card

Facebook groups

Covid Mutual Aid UK is a group of volunteers supporting local community groups organising mutual aid 

Website: https://covidmutualaid.org/