Staying at home
Advice is changing all the time. It is important we protect ourselves and others by following current guidance on staying at home and social distancing which can be found here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
What we are doing
The coronavirus outbreak is of deep concern to everyone in Buckinghamshire. We are working together with Public Health England and the Department for Health and Social Care to tackle the Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak and, support our residents, communities, businesses and schools during this challenging time.
We are closely following government guidance to provide accurate and up to date information. We are well-prepared for these situations and have robust plans in place to make sure we can keep essential services running to look after our elderly, the vulnerable, children, and safeguard local communities.
As the impact of Coronavirus increases we may need to make some temporary changes to some services. This is so we can protect people from infection and use our staff and resources where they are most needed. Information about any service changes will be released to the press and published on our website www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk.
We know that some of our residents will still want to get in touch face to face so for now, we are keeping our main libraries and council offices open. We are also keeping our country parks open with no parking charges so people can get out for some fresh air and stay healthy.
Encouraging volunteering – does your neighbour need help?
You may already know that there is a volunteering cell that is working on pulling people together– this will be a critical part of Buckinghamshire’s Covid-19 community support hub.
In response to the many elderly or vulnerable people who are being advised to self-isolate we have today launched our online community support hub . This will help people to find ways to get involved or find support.
The page can be found here https://www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus/
Meeting local need
We know people are going to need support with practical things like getting medicines, grocery shopping, or caring for beloved pets as well as dealing with the potentially difficult mental effects of isolation. And we also know many people will want to help and support them if they possibly can.
What the hub will do
The hub will make it easier for people to get help or volunteer. It will be a place where people can go if they need help or support; and also a place where people who want to volunteer can find out how they can best assist vulnerable people. The website will aim to link those in need with those who are able to support them.
What you can do
Tell people about the hub. As someone with local knowledge and contacts it would be helpful if you could tell encourage any local support initiatives to get in touch so we can put them on the ‘hub’. Just email us at mailto:communities@buckscc.gov.uk
Many people may be unsure about getting help from someone they have not met before. Members can play a vital role as a ‘trusted person’ and introduce volunteers they know to the people who need help in their communities.
People without internet access
We fully appreciate the community hub relies heavily on internet access. We are working on developing support through libraries and council receptions (the new council access points).We are also asking any vulnerable or older person who is self-isolating and needs support, or anyone concerned about them, to call the council on 01296 383 204.