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Carers and COVID-19

Advice and information at a local and national level - this page will be updated regularly in these fast moving times.

What do I need to do now?

2021 Updates:

Unpaid Carers now qualify for COVID Vaccinations in Group 6 – CLICK HERE
RAPID Covid Testing available for #unpaidcarers in Somerset! CLICK HERE
Details of the Vaccination Roll out in Somerset CLICK HERE
Download the vaccination guide: CLICK HERE
GOVERNMENT UPDATE 19th JANUARY 2021 FOR THOSE WHO PROVIDE UNPAID CARE TO FRIENDS OR FAMILY: CLICK HERE

Now is a good time to get organised and make a plan. Key things to think about are:

Register with us – call 0800 31 68 600 – our service is fully open and ready to help.
- Get support from your local Carers Agent
- Register for Talk & Support – really useful to have a friendly person to chat with – especially if you are self-isolating, feeling lonely and need company.
Have an emergency plan in case you as a Carer becomes unwell – click here to download the handy print off
Let your GP know you are a carer. If your doctor and surgery know you are a carer they can:
- support you with any physical health issues related to your caring role, like tiredness
- make you aware of the carer’s flu jab each year
- talk to you about your mental health and the impact of your caring role
- provide you with general information and advice
- refer you to helpful organisations and services that can improve your caring situation
- give you flexible appointments at times that suit you
- Apply for a Carer’s Break – If you are eligible they may be able to help you pay for a break and help arrange short-term breaks for you or the person you care for, especially if your caring role is impacting your health.
Plan your shopping for supplies – many supermarkets have special hours for volunteers and key workers:
- Sainsburys
- Morrisons
- Asda
- Lidl’s
- Aldi
- Tesco
- Co-op
- Iceland
- Marks and Spencer
Sort out your Carers’ Assessment – you can also ask for a carer’s assessment by phoning 0300 123 2224.
Look after yourself
- Click here to see NHS guidelines – Exercise for wellbeing
- Click here to see NHS guidelines – 5 steps to mental wellbeing
- See government guidance on accessing green spaces – click here
- Be Active at Home: https://www.sasp.co.uk/be-active-at-home
Beware of Scams – Avon and Somerset Police have noticed a spike in scams during this time click here to find out more
Click here for the latest info on COVID vaccination fraud

Somerset:

Somerset Community Connect website has a full list of all the organisations that can support you as a Carer in Somerset as well as other useful advice around how to cope during the Coronavirus lockdown.