Bridgewater Home Care has collated a range of contact details from local and national organisations which we hope will be of some benefit.
Guidance for medically vulnerable people
The government has published guidance for people who are considered extremely medically vulnerable to coronavirus, asking them to stay at home and avoid all non-essential contact for at least 12 weeks. This includes children and should also be understood by the friends, family members and carers of those who are medically vulnerable. People who fall into this category will be directly contacted by letter to advise them of the extra measures to take.
Read the government guidelines here
Community Hubs have been established in each local authority area to provide support for the most vulnerable in each borough. The hubs coordinate support for those who do not have any other way of sourcing food and medical supplies. They are also helping vulnerable residents to access hardship grants.
For Bolton Council Call – 01204 337 221. Monday to Friday: 8.30am to 5.30pm, Saturday: 9.00am to 1.30pm.
Guidance for people affected by Dementia and those supporting them
Living with dementia at any time brings everyday challenges for the person and those around them. Coronavirus is making daily life much harder. You may feel anxious, scared or lonely. During this time, it’s important to know what support is available to you as a carer and those you look after.
You can find further advice and practical tips for people living with dementia and those supporting them – either in the same household or from a distance.
The Dementia UK website to support you during this time.
Helpline: 0800 888 6678 for any queries.
Helpline : 0333 150 3456
Helpline: 01942 914000 or email: info@lewybody.org
General Guidance Available for Older People and those supporting them
Bolton Council have advised that if you are not in one of the extremely vulnerable groups and have concerns, please see the website for the help available or contact them on Helpline: 01204 333 333.
Bolton Council are also updating their Covid-19 newsletter daily online which can be found at : https://www.bolton.gov.uk/news
Age UK Advice Helpline: 0800 169 65 65 for practical information and advice, lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. Visit the website here.
Age UK give some step-by-step instructions on how to keep in touch using a video call using different devices – some of these include video demonstrations that make things clearer.
The Silver Line is a free confidential helpline providing information, friendship and advice to older people, open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. For a cheerful chat, day or night, call Silver Line: 0800 470 80 90.
Carers UK have a wide range of advice, resources and frequently asked questions on their website.
Helpline: 0808 808 7777
There is also Government guidance for anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who cannot cope without their support here.
Looking after Mental health and Wellbeing
Whilst you are spending time at home because of coronavirus, it is also really important to take care of your mental health. Find tips on the website on how to keep on top of your mental wellbeing and manage some of the feelings you may be experiencing whilst at home.
Mind – Coronavirus and your wellbeing
Centre for Ageing Better. The UK chief medical officer’s guidelines recommend twice weekly strength and balance training for adults of all ages. Exercises you can do at home, depending on ability, during a time of self-isolation can be found here.
Eighty-year-old Diana Moran ( The Green Goddess) will be doing exercises three times a week from self-isolation so viewers can follow along at home on Breakfast TV . Here’s a clip : https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0871t87
Radio and music
Dementia radio: www.mdfr.co.uk – access play lists
Radio reminiscence: https://radioreminisce.com/
Playlist for Life is a charity that wants everyone with dementia to have a unique, personal playlist and everyone who loves or cares for them to know how to use it.
Local Food Supplies
The Bolton Market Food Hall remains open so shoppers can buy essential food supplies.
- Customers are being reminded to observe social distancing guidance via signs and public announcements every 15 minutes
- Many of the market’s fresh produce traders are now providing home delivery or order and collect services – details at Facebook @boltonmarkets
For further information visit www.boltonmarkets.com
