Currently, the UK and the world is experiencing an outbreak of the virus Covid-19.
There is a lot of fear, anxiety and stress as a result of this, as well as mixed messages, panic buying, and fake news.
While the messages we hear may prompt fear and anxiety, it is important to remember that there are direct actions we can take to minimise the harm this virus causes.
Slowing down the spread of the virus will help keep those most at risk safe in the coming months.
How to stay safe
The homeless people we support are among the most vulnerable during this pandemic. 73% of homeless people have physical health issues.
Here’s what the NHS says to do to help prevent the spread of the virus:
- wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
- use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
- cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
- put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
For further information here is a list of other important resources:
Government guidance on how to protect yourself if you’re homeless
Housing Justice has produced advice specifically for night shelters.
We urge you all to take care of yourselves during this time and follow government guidelines.
The more we can prevent the spread of the virus, the more likely we will protect ourselves and the most vulnerable people of our society.
Are you worried about losing your home?
The government has taken steps to support people throughout this pandemic.
Some of these benefits may be able to help you. They have;
- passed emergency legislation to suspend new evictions from social or private rented accommodation while this national emergency is taking place
- said landlords will also be protected as 3 month mortgage payment holiday is extended to Buy to Let mortgages
- agreed to pay 80% of salaries for those unable to work
More on government support here
If you feel you are in danger of losing your home, please get in touch with Shelter for personal advice.
Support with your mental health
If events or isolation has your mental health in a dark place, this is perfectly natural and normal. You can reach out to any of these organisations for a listening ear, and a person to speak to.
For help and guidance around mental health
Email info@mind.org.uk
Call 0300 123 3393 M-F 9am-6pm
Email to jo@samaritans.org
Call 116 123 – Open 24 Hrs
CALM – The Campaign Against Living Miserably
For men
www.thecalmzone.net/ for Webchat
0800 58 58 58 – Open from 5pm till Midnight
For people under 35 thinking about suicide
Email pat@papyrus-uk.org
Text 07860 039967
Call 0800 068 4141 – M-F 9am-10pm, Weekends 2pm-10pm
We continue to follow all government guidelines regarding the Coronavirus to ensure the safety of the people we work with and our staff.
