Feature

Struggling to cope because of COVID-19? Help is at hand

Hampshire County Council is reminding residents they are not alone, and help is at hand if they are having a difficult time due to COVID-19 or because they are self-isolating

The Hampshire Coronavirus Support and Helpline can signpost to information, advice and relevant services that can assist with a range of issues; from where to find help in the community and money worries to emotional support and practical help when self-isolating.

Councillor Liz Fairhurst, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Adult Services and Public Health, said: “There are many daily errands we all take for granted under normal circumstances, such as buying groceries at the shops, collecting prescriptions and walking the dog, however, these tasks are not so simple if you are self-isolating. While it is always best to turn to friends, family or neighbours for assistance, if this is not possible, remember, help is at hand. The Hampshire Coronavirus Support and Helpline is there for you, so I urge residents – especially those who are especially vulnerable – to get in touch when help is needed.”

Telephone helpline

If Coronavirus has had an impact on you or any aspect of your life, including anyone who is self-isolating, please call the helpline for advice and support.

The Hampshire Coronavirus Support and Helpline can be contacted on 0333 370 4000. (Calls charged at local rate.) Or you can request a call-back from the helpline by completing the call-back request form: https://www.hants.gov.uk/socialcareandhealth/ coronavirus/volunteer-welfare

We can signpost you to information, advice and relevant services to support you with a range of issues

Opening hours

Monday to Saturday: 9am to 6pm Sunday and bank holidays: 9am to 4pm

Christmas Opening hours

Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day: Closed Monday 27 and Tuesday 28 December: 9am to 4pm Wednesday 29, Thursday 30 and Friday 31 December: 9am to 6pm

Councillor Liz Fairhurst added: “As well as signposting callers to practical services, the helpline offers a referral to the mental health charity MIND for people who need emotional support. This makes it quicker and easier for people to get the help they need with just one phone call.”

For more information visit: www.hants.gov.uk/ socialcareandhealth/coronavirus/volunteer-welfare

This service is for people who live within the Hampshire County Council local authority area. Calls from Southampton, Portsmouth or Isle of Wight residents will be signposted to their local support numbers.