During the Coronavirus outbreak, you should only leave your house for one of four reasons, and one of these is to provide care or to help a vulnerable person. It's important to stay safe whilst providing help to those who need it, that’s why we’ve put together some guidance from the government to help you stay safe whilst helping others, and some ideas of how you can help – if you can. Click here for the full Gov.uk article and for more information on volunteering:
Can I help?
You can only provide help to people in isolation if you meet all of the following:
- You (and members of your household) are well and have no symptoms of the Coronavirus.
- You are under 70.
- You are not pregnant.
- You do not have any long-term health conditions that make you vulnerable.
Who can I help?
Households who are isolating - including friends, family and neighbours. You should only provide support in person where it is essential for the health or care of a vulnerable person.
How can I help safely?
- If you are picking things up for others, try to limit the amount of time you spend outside of your home by picking up essentials for others and yourself in the same trip.
- You should stay 2m away from anyone you do not live with at all times. Do not share a car journey with them.
- You should also regularly wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- If you or someone in your household has shown symptoms, or if you are more vulnerable to coronavirus yourself, then you must stay home.
What can I do to help?
1. Help with food shopping:
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Leave the groceries on their doorstep (limit the time you spend outside of your home by collecting shopping for others whilst you get your own).
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Help those who aren't familair wih online shopping by placing the order for them or talking them through the process on the phone.
2. Collect medication:
- You can pick up medicines on someone else's behalf.
- Remember to keep a safe distance when leaving the items in the person's drop-off area. Make sure they have collected the medication before leaving.
3. Stay in touch over the phone or via social media?
Just saying hello or regularly checking in over the phone is important. This can have a positive impact on people's wellbeing, especially if they're struggling with loneliness.
4. Share trusted sources of information:
Help your community by sharing trusted information from the NHS, Public Health England or the Department of Health and Social Care.
How to stay safe when accepting help from others:
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If you are receiving voluntary help, do not share financial details.
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If someone you don't know calls at your home, always ask for ID. Only provide information on a need to know basis. Report any suspicious behaviour.
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Remember, genuine volunteers have been told not to enter your home.