*This is an ongoing story, so we may update this post*
With everything in the news feeling quite doom and gloom over the last few days, it’s natural to have questions or worries about the situation concerning coronavirus.
#WashYourHands more often for 20 seconds.
For the latest information and advice on #coronavirus, visit https://t.co/p06eaoRWQe pic.twitter.com/NsbfcHSe6P
— Imperial NHS 💙 (@ImperialNHS) March 16, 2020
With many people in self-isolation, you may be concerned, particularly if you rely on the help of carers, or will struggle to see friends and family during this time.
SHOPPING
There are simple steps you can take if you’re deemed ‘high-risk’, or simply want to limit your time outside.
Ordering your shopping online means you don’t have to head outside to get your groceries, and can avoid the frenzy of panic buying. You’re also more likely to be able to find the products you’re looking for, rather than going all the way to the shops to find out they’re sold out of pasta and soap.
We know that many of you are worried about the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19). We want to let you know that we are doing everything we can so that you and your families have the food and essentials that you need. pic.twitter.com/IxIKN1YUq0
— Sainsbury's (@sainsburys) March 15, 2020
Major supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Iceland and ASDA offer delivery, and if you spend a certain amount, your delivery will be free.
Your groceries will be taken straight to your kitchen (unless you’re self-isolating, in which case you can request they’re left at your door). If you need help putting away your shopping, delivery staff are usually more than happy to help.
COMMUNITY
At times like these, there’s nothing more important than community spirit, and we can all do our bit to help those who are less able.
Local community groups are popping up to help out with tasks such as shopping, dog walking, picking up prescriptions or even just arranging a phone call for a chat.
Veterans are known for being resourceful and staying calm in stressful situations, so are great people to have around during difficult times such as there.
If you’re able to support someone in your local community who is in need, you should contact your local community group to find out how you can help.
SUPPORT
No matter what your situation, support is always available to you in a variety of different forms.
Corona virus is being taken seriously but we are still here to help, @SSAFA have advised us how to stay safe but still deliver assistance when needed so please get in touch x
— SSAFA Southend & Rochford Division (@SsafaSouthend) March 14, 2020
If you receive support from any charities, such as SSAFA, Age UK, Combat Stress or Help for Heroes, you can get in touch with them to find out how they can help you during this time.
For example, some members of the public have been contacting charities to discover how they can help the Armed Forces community. The charities have then been able to buddy them with a veteran in need of support, to help with shopping and even just provide the simple pleasure of a cup of tea and a chat.
Many thanks to @MrsEmmaJK for offering her time to help us with our veterans, Emma has now been buddied up with one of our older veterans, she is going to check on him, do shopping and make a huge difference to another’s life, simple solutions huge impact!
— SSAFA Southend & Rochford Division (@SsafaSouthend) March 16, 2020
If you’re concerned about coronavirus and it’s starting to affect your mental health, the charity Mind has information available to help you manage any feelings of stress and anxiety.
We all have our part to play at times like these, and whether you’re in need of some support, or want to offer it to others, there are ways of means of getting through this time as a community.
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