All our help and information for 23/04/2020 is now available in a single place on the SCC website https://www.somerset.gov.uk/coronavirus/covid-19-latest-advice/
This page is refreshed through the day so please check in regularly to keep across developments and news.
Top stories today:
Councils and NHS checking in with thousands of residents
Thousands of people will be contacted by phone or letter over the coming days as all five local authorities in Somerset and the NHS launch a new approach to help and support through the Coronavirus outbreak.
Around 70,000 residents will receive a letter which encourages them to seek non-medical help and support amongst their own local community groups at first. But if they can’t find the help they need, they are asked to contact the dedicated Somerset Coronavirus Support Helpline on 0300 790 6275.
As well as the letters, around 1,600 residents will receive phone calls
to check how they are coping and make sure they have the support they need and if they don’t, give them guidance and advice to get help.
People should always check that the caller is genuine, never give out personal bank details, pin numbers, or passwords to anyone over the phone.
Libraries service heads for the record books
The number of people joining Somerset’s library service has rocketed during the coronavirus lockdown – despite library buildings being closed to the public.
The service is proving popular with hundreds of people joining Somerset Libraries since the lockdown began – there has been a huge increase in the last five weeks, compared to the same time last year.
Anyone in Somerset can download free books, audiobooks and even magazines via the website. It’s really easy to get started, but anyone who needs help can email librariesmail@somerset.gov.uk , phone 0300 123 2224 or they can visit www.somerset.gov.uk/libraries for step-by-guides on the application process and how to download literature.
Joint initiative to reassure the public on domestic abuse support
Support is, and will continue to be, available for people experiencing domestic abuse during the coronavirus lockdown.
Somerset County Council’s domestic abuse providers have joined with Avon and Somerset Police for a webchat, which airs on social media tomorrow, discussing the robust provision in place to help people at this challenging time.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse or you know someone who is help is available:
- Somerset Domestic Abuse website somersetsurvivors.org.uk/covid-19-support
- Call your local confidential domestic abuse helpline on 0800 69 49 999
- If you or someone you care about is in immediate danger, please call 999 and ask for the police
Staying safe online during the pandemic
With more people working from home and schooling their children online, often using new apps and devices, it has never been more important for everyone to know how to stay safe.
Discover measures that can help you keep connected safely during the coronavirus outbreak.
Mental health and wellbeing tip of the day
It’s really important to stay connected, but try contacting your family and friends via Skype or similar apps instead of sending them an email or text. This breaks up the day and you can also stand up and move around whilst doing so. Making plans to video call or phone friends and family are an effective way to help people avoid feeling isolated.