This information is accurate as of 1st April 2020.
The wellbeing of our service users is always a high priority here at Sunderland Mind. We are constantly monitoring the current coronavirus situation to ensure we can provide the best guidance and support where possible.
How to Stop the Spread of Coronavirus
It is important to stay at home and socially distance yourself from others. This will limit the spread of coronavirus, protecting your loved ones and the wider community. To make sure this is done effectively, the Government have stated that you can now only leave home for the following reasons:
- One form of exercise a day – this can be done on your own or with people you live with. It could include running, cycling or walking etc
- Go shopping for basic essentials – only to be done when needed
- Travel to and from work – only when absolutely necessary and work cannot be done from home
- Fulfil any medical needs – like providing care for a vulnerable person, picking up prescriptions, donating blood or avoiding injury.
It is important to realise that you must remain 2 metres away from anyone who is not from your household when participating in these activities. If parents are not part of the same household, any children under 18 are free to move between these homes.
For further details please visit bit.ly/StayHome1
The government have also provided a wonderful FAQ section, answering the most common questions people have about what they can and can’t do during this period. You can find that here – www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do
By following these guidelines you are helping to look after and support your community, as well as our much loved NHS.
If you are worried about you or a member of your family having coronavirus the NHS have the latest advice on what to do in these circumstances. You can also find information on what to do if you’re in need of medical assistance by following this link: www.nhs.uk/coronavirus
Your Wellbeing and Mental Health
All this information can be extremely overwhelming and difficult to process but don’t worry you’re not alone. Everyone deals with change differently and the coronavirus outbreak is not something anyone has experienced before. It is really important to take time out to look after your mind and body as well as you can. If you are having difficulty with this and are in need of support do not hesitate to contact us. Our current operating information can be found on our Home Page
The Government and NHS have provided guidance on how to look after your own mental health during this time. They have made sure to include plenty of tips for people who may be especially vulnerable. You can find them by clicking here and here.
An excellent guide about guarding mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic from rehab4addiction.
Crisis Help
If you feel you need urgent help and we are not available please contact Sunderland Initial Response Team (IRT) on 0303 123 1145
The service is available 24 hours, 7 days a week, throughout the year.
Samaritans – 116 123 this is a free confidential helpline if you feel you need to talk. www.samaritans.org
Further support can be found on our Crisis Help page or through contacting admin@sunderlandmind.co.uk
If you are concerned about meeting the needs of you and your family, Sunderland City Council’s local welfare provision scheme is available to provide support for people in crisis. For more information on if you are eligible or how to apply visit: www.sunderland.gov.uk/crisis-support
The people of Sunderland have been pulling together over the last few weeks and it has been wonderful to see everyone supporting each other. To keep up to date with all information and support available, make sure you follow us on our social media platforms @SunderlandMind .
Stay safe and look after yourselves 🙂