Coronavirus

We are offering a package of support for older people which helps with the challenges faced during self-isolation. These include practical challenges in getting to the supermarket or pharmacy as well as support with fears and anxieties, low mood, loneliness and boredom. We can also help with issues which are exacerbated by the coronavirus, for example bereavement, carer strain and financial challenges.

We have a dedicated helpline for all calls related to coronavirus on 0116 299 2239 which is open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays and from 10am to 4pm on weekends.

Our Coronavirus Helpline is the gateway to our crisis support which includes:

• Delivery of emergency care packages of essential food and toiletry provisions to help until you can access grocery shopping

• Collection and delivery of your prescription medication

• Supermarket shopping trips with shopping delivered to your door

• Befriending telephone calls to keep you in touch with the outside world

• Home visits for essential personal care (new clients cannot be accommodated at this time)

• Signposting to other crisis support providers in your area who can help you

We have received numerous, very kind offers of help from members of the public offering to visit vulnerable older people. We recommend that you focus on family, friends and community neighbours to ensure they are safe, well and have enough provisions. Please follow the guidance about physical distancing to keep safe.

The charity is facing an unprecedented loss of income as all our charity shops and most services have closed. Whilst nearly 2/3 of staff have been furloughed, we still have to pay fixed outgoings alongside setting up and delivering a major crisis response for the 146,000 over 70’s in our local area.

To keep our LeicsCovidCare crisis response running we desperately need cash donations which will allow us to purchase essential items for care packages, cover our transport costs to collect and deliver shopping, prescriptions and care packages and help us keep staff in place to man the coronavirus helpline.

Please, if you can, support us with a Gift Aided donation online at www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/leicscovidcare

The symptoms of coronavirus are:

• a high temperature

• a new continuous cough
  
  

 You should stay at home for 7 days if you experience any of these symptoms.

You can find the latest NHS information and advice on coronavirus here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

To help keep you safe and well, please follow these Do’s and Don’ts:

DO
Stay home and only go out if you need basic necessities
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
Wash your hands as soon as you get home
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

DON’T
touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean