Coronavirus community support booklet

Here for you Your essential reference guide to staying safe and well during the COVID-19 pandemic Winter 2020-21

Harlow Community Hub

Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Telephone: 01279 927005 • Email: harlowcommunityhub@harlow.gov.uk

Harlow Community Hub

Harlow Community Hub provides help and advice for: • Anyone self-isolating who has no support network or access to essential supplies • Anyone who is clinically extremely vulnerable (CEV) Harlow may experience future restrictions or further lockdowns.

If you are a local resident and would like to register to volunteer in the community, please visit the following link and complete the form: shorturl.at/crxJT

01279 927005

harlowcommunityhub@harlow.gov.uk

Here for you

CONTENTS Keeping Well. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 Get your flu vaccine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 livewell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Keep active. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Stay active at home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Strength and balance classes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Eat well. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Link well. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Weight management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Using the NHS and other health services. . . 6 Befriending. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 COVID-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Avoid the spread. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Main symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19).7 Your COVID recovery service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 COVID-19 app . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Keeping Warm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Energy advice service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Keep your home free from damp and mould. . 9 Keep your home warm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Healthy Mind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12 Mind in West Essex. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Children and young people . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Opendoor Counselling Service. . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Bereavement Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Samaritans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 YCT Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 The Silver Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Healthy Minds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Work Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Employment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Redundancy and job loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Need to retrain?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 What to do if you lose your job . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Engage Project. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Money Matters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-17 Food costs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Job loss/redundancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Be scam aware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Help stop loan sharks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Harlow Citizens Advice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Help with your council bills. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Help with your Council Tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Help with your rent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Different ways to pay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Support for leaseholders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Home Matters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Supported housing schemes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Careline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Existing Supported Housing tenants. . . . . . . 18 Tackling Harlow’s housing need . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Rough sleeping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Tenant and leaseholder engagement. . . . . . 19 Need help?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21 Safeguarding yourself or others . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Domestic abuse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Support for carers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Family support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Getting around Harlow. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Leah Manning Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Community Agents Essex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Dementia support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Useful Contacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

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Here for you

Keeping Well Get a flu vaccine The flu vaccination is important because: if you are at higher risk

from coronavirus, you are

also more at risk of

complications from flu

if you get flu and coronavirus at the same time, you may become more seriously ill

it will help to reduce

pressure on the NHS and

social care staff who may

be dealing with coronavirus The flu vaccine is given to people who: are 65 and over (born on

or before 31 March 1956) have certain health conditions

are pregnant are in a long-stay

residential care

receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick

live with someone who

is at high risk from

coronavirus (on the NHS

shielded patient list)

are frontline health or social care workers

If you are aged between 50 and 64 and you are not in a clinical risk group, you may be offered the vaccine later in the winter season.

In the meantime, please be patient. This will allow GPs to focus on vaccinating those most vulnerable first.

livewell Livewell is a campaign that engages with families, communities and individuals to provide information about all that is on offer in Essex to improve health and wellbeing.

There are 6 main strands: startwell – Giving children and young families the best start in life. staywell – Clinical wellbeing, a state of health. Working together to ensure access to the best clinical services. feelwell – A state of mental wellbeing. Improving the access to services that address mental wellbeing. eatwell – Raising awareness on healthier eating. bewell – People of all ages, shapes, sizes and abilities can benefit from being physically active. agewell – Plan now for the future, for a healthier retirement.

Visit: www.harlow.gov.uk/ community/health-andwellbeing

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Here for you

Keep active Staying active is really important in order to stay physically and mentally well.

Walking is one of the easiest ways to get more activity into your day. Research shows that people who fit moderate activity, such as walking, into their daily life burn more energy than those who make weekly visits to the gym.

Stay active at home The Active Essex website has lots of ideas and tips on how to stay active whilst at home.

There is also a free library of online exercises on the Keep Essex Active YouTube channel.

Visit: www.activeessex.org/ keep-essex-active YouTube channel: www.activeessex.org/ keep-essex-active-youtube The NHS also has a library of exercises to help with strength, flexibility and balance.

Sitting exercises: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/ exercise/sitting-exercises/ Strength exercises: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/ exercise/strength-exercises/ Flexibility exercises: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/ exercise/flexibility-exercises/ Balance exercises: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/ exercise/balance-exercises/

Strength and Balance classes A free strength and balance service has recently started for adults living in the district or registered to a GP practice in Epping Forest, Harlow or Uttlesford.

Held at venues throughout these districts, the 12-week seated exercise programme can help build strength, improve mobility and keep people moving.

The groups are small (up to 5 people) and all venues have measures in place to ensure you are able to remain socially distanced.

You can also attend a live virtual class from your own home if you prefer.

Call: 01992 564561 Email: csreception@ eppingforestdc.gov.uk

Link well The Essex Wellbeing Service’s Link Well services help to connect you to specialist organisations across the county.

Find out more information on the services available at www.essexwellbeingservice. co.uk/link-well/community-1

Weight management My Weight Matters is a free weight management programme for adults living in Essex. It focuses on eating a healthy balanced diet, managing your portions and helping you to be more active in your daily life.

It’s not a ‘diet’ or quick fix solution, but instead supports you to lose weight in a safe, controlled way and to change unhealthy habits.

Eat well Eating healthily can often be more challenging when spending more time at home for example, there may be more temptations around.

By eating a range of fruits and vegetables you can help boost your immunity.

Try to stock up on healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, olives, dips and veg to dip into them!

Planning meals throughout the day can be helpful too.

My Weight Matters Call: 0800 022 4524 Email: acecicweightmanagementadults@nhs.net Visit: www.acemyweightmatters.org 5

Here for you

Using the NHS and other health services At the moment it can be hard to know what to do if you’re unwell or have concerns about your health.

Your GP services are open, always have been and will continue to be.

It’s important to get medical help if you think you need it, keep any appointments or procedures you have booked unless you’re told not to go and to go to hospital if you’re advised to.

If patients need to speak to a nurse or GP they will be triaged over the telephone or online.

After this, the practice will let patients know what sort of appointment they will have. This will be a telephone consultation, a video call or a face-to-face appointment.

Face-to-face appointments are still taking place, but only if it is essential.

Safety measures have been put in place to prevent the spread of Coronavirus.

GPs and nurses may also be wearing protective clothing to keep you both safe.

Please be patient and be kind as our staff continue to do their best to make sure you get the best care possible.

NHS services have made changes to make sure it’s safe for you to be seen during coronavirus.

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There are also ways to get medical help and prescriptions online or over the phone.

Health information and advice The best place to get accurate health information is the NHS website www.nhs.uk or your GP surgery’s website.

Help and support from a GP If you need to contact a GP, do not go into the surgery in person - either call your GP or visit the GP surgery’s website.

Repeat prescriptions If you have a repeat prescription that you usually request at your GP surgery or pharmacy, you can do this online.

Do not go to your GP surgery or pharmacy to order prescriptions.

Call them if you cannot order your prescription online.

Hospitals If you have a hospital appointment, it’s important to go. Your hospital will contact you with more information about what you need to do.

Dental treatment In England, some routine dental treatments are now available again.

If you think you need urgent dental treatment: - Call your dentist - Use the NHS 111 service if you cannot contact your dentist or do not have one.

Sexual health clinics Call a sexual health clinic if you need help or advice about sexual health issues like sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or contraception. Alternatively visit www.essexsexualhealthservice. org.uk or call 0300 003 1212.

Contraception If you need contraception, call your GP surgery or a sexual health clinic as soon as possible.

Only go in person if you’ve been told to.

Urgent medical help If you need urgent medical help, use the regular NHS 111 online service.

Emergency medical help For life-threatening emergencies, call 999 for an ambulance.

Try to avoid going straight to A&E instead of calling an ambulance.

Essex Befriends Offering befriending services to people over 18 who are carers, older people, those experiencing mental ill health or have a learning disability.

Contacts are currently by phone, video call, email or texts. Where it is appropriate and safe, Befrienders can also meet in outside spaces.

Call: 0300 770 1263 Email: essexbefriends@affc. org.uk www.essexbefriends.org.uk

Here for you

COVID-19

NHS COVID-19 app

Avoid the spread

Please remember to continue to wash your hands, cover your face and keep a 2-metre distance from others. This helps to control the spread of coronavirus and reduce infection rates.

Main symptoms of Coronavirus (COVID-19) A high temperature

(37.8oC or above)

A new, continuous cough A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste Most people with coronavirus have at least one of these symptoms.

If you have any coronavirus symptoms: 1. Get a test as soon as possible by visiting www. gov.uk/get-coronavirus- test or calling 119

Your COVID recovery service

As you find yourself recovering from COVID-19 you may still be coming to terms with the impact the virus has had on both your body and mind.

These changes should get better over time. Some may take longer than others, but there are things you can do to help.

Your COVID Recovery helps you to understand what has happened and what you might expect as part of your recovery.

For further information, visit www.yourcovidrecovery.nhs.uk

The NHS COVID-19 app is the fastest way to see if you are at risk from coronavirus. The faster you know, the quicker you can alert and protect your loved ones and community. The app has a number of tools to protect you, including contact tracing, local area alerts and venue check-in.

To find out more, visit: www.covid19.nhs.uk

QR codes for the COVID-19 app

Hospitality, close contact services and leisure venues are required by law to display official NHS QR code posters to make it easier for people to check-in at different premises, using the NHS COVID-19 app. This is in addition to the requirement to collect customer, visitor and staff contact detail logs. For more information, visit www.gov.uk

2. Stay at home until you get your test result – only leave your home to have a test.

Anyone you live with and anyone in your support bubble, must also stay at home until you get your result.

You will never be asked to pay for a coronavirus test.

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Here for you

Keeping Warm Energy advice service Warm Home Essex is a new energy advice service delivered by Citizens Advice Harlow to residents of Harlow and Epping.

Our energy specialist can help with: • Advice on switching energy suppliers.

• Advice on income maximisation • Energy debt advice including energy debt write-offs • Energy Grant • Green Home Grant • Energy efficient solutions such as insulation and boiler replacements • Warm Home discount • Water debt For help and advice contact 0300 3033 789.

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Here for you

Keep your home free from damp and mould When the weather gets colder, condensation in the home can increase which may cause damp and mould. We’ve put together a list of some simple measures you can take to help reduce moisture and prevent mould.

Heating

Improve ventilation

Maintain a low heat (16 c) when the weather is cold or wet - this is more effective in keeping your home warmer and costs less than short bursts of high heat.

Keep a window open or use extractor fans during and after cooking, washing and drying clothes.

O

Open windows slightly when at home or use the fitted trickle vents.

Do not obstruct radiators with furniture or overhanging curtains that prevent heat circulation.

Do not block air vents particularly important where gas and heating appliances require oxygen for combustion while allowing carbon monoxide to escape.

Allow sunlight into your home to help warm up rooms.

Allow air to circulate. Move beds and furniture away from walls and do not overfill wardrobes.

Try to avoid using portable gas heaters to heat rooms as these may encourage condensation.

Keep your home warm Follow these tips to keep you and your family warm and well at home: Make sure your boiler has

been serviced. This will

ensure it is working

properly, is safe and

running efficiently as possible

Don’t block up air vents as fires and heaters need ventilation. Good ventilation also helps to prevent condensation

Reduce moisture Cover boiling pans when cooking.

Close the bathroom door during and after bathing or showering.

Dry clothes outside where possible and not over radiators. Otherwise, confine drying to a single room (preferably the bathroom), open the window and close the door.

Cover fish tanks.

Wipe down surfaces where moisture settles.

Make sure radiators are

not obstructed by furniture

or curtains

Keep your main living room heated at approx. 21°C (70°F) and the rest of your home at least 16°C (65°F)

Purchase a carbon monoxide detector if you use gas or oil appliances and test your smoke alarms every week

To arrange a free home fire safety visit call: 0300 303 0088 or visit: www. essex-fire.gov.uk/ Home_Fire_Safety/

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Here for you

Healthy Mind Mind in West Essex

We all need to look after our mental health to help us live our best life during challenging times. Mind in West Essex has a range of services and self-help tools, including counselling, digital social groups, anxiety groups, volunteering, befriending for lonely parents, mental health coaches, wellbeing assistants, training and information.

Mind in West Essex Call: 01371 876641 Email: admin@mindinwestessex.org.uk Visit: www.mindinwestessex.org.uk

Children and young people Many children and young people may be feeling worried or anxious about COVID-19 and finding it difficult not being able to socialise with friends and family in the same way as they used to.

Along with this, having to adhere to social distancing in school and not being able to access usual services like youth clubs, sport and other leisure activities can bring added pressures.

Harlow Youth Council has produced a range of resources that can help young people and their parents recognise when they are feeling stressed or anxious; what they can do themselves to help overcome those feelings and where to seek help and support when needed.

Visit www.harlow.gov.uk and search for Youth Council.

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Opendoor Counselling Service

If you are aged between 13 and 26 and are feeling sad, lonely, worried or confused and want someone to talk to who won’t judge you, Opendoor is here for you. They offer a free, confidential service for young people living in Harlow and the surrounding area.

Call: 07803 17879 Visit: www.open-door.info Children and young people might face difficulties in being back at school or college, or have worries about getting or passing on the virus.

It’s also still uncertain what further changes we all may face. There is support available if you feel you or your child need it. Please visit Every Mind Matters at www.nhs.uk/oneyou If your child needs to talk to someone Childline can help.

Call: (free) 0800 1111 Visit: www.childline.org.uk

Here for you

Bereavement support Most people experience grief when they lose someone important to them. It affects everyone differently. There’s no right or wrong way to feel. You may be finding it particularly difficult at the moment because of the changes in place to try to stop the spread of coronavirus.

Bereavement support at St Clare Hospice

St Clare’s Bereavement Café project helps those coping with bereavement to connect with local people who understand.

Join a Virtual Bereavement Café event, where you can chat with other like-minded people near you. Informal, supportive groups run four times a week: Tuesdays, 10.30am – 11.30am Wednesdays, 7pm – 8pm Thursdays, 11am – 12 noon Last Sunday of the month (Youth Bereavement Café for those aged 18-30) – 7pm – 8pm Join your local Bereavement Café Facebook group, or a Youth Bereavement Café group for those aged 18-30. These offer a casual space to share thoughts, feelings and experiences with others, as well as ask questions and discover new local support.

Please call 01279 967670 Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm if you want to chat to someone about your loss, access emotional support, receive guidance on what to do after

the death of someone close or if you’d like to find out about other support services near you.

For more information about St Clare’s community bereavement services, please visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk/ bereavement

Cruse Bereavement Care

Cruse Bereavement Care offer a telephone helpline and webchat, with support sessions held over the phone, email or internet. (Monday to Friday, 9.30am - 1.30pm) Call: 0845 2669710 Email: essex@cruse.org.uk Visit: www.cruse.org.uk

Compassionate Neighbours

Are you living with a life-limiting illness, experiencing frailty due to old age and are worried about feeling lonely during the next few months?

The St Clare Compassionate Neighbours project could be for you. This project connects local people together, enjoying a weekly phone call whilst building a genuine, supportive friendship.

Please contact Stacey Towler on 07986 971860 or email cn@stclarehospice.org.uk

Samaritans

Providing support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide.

Whatever you’re going through, a Samaritan will face it with you.

Call 116 123 (Free, any time, day or night)

Email jo@samaritans.org (response time 24 hours) Visit: www.samaritans.org Write to: Chris Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK PO Box 9090 Stirling FK8 2SA

YCT Support

YCT is a counselling and therapeutic support charity.

They specialise in supporting children and young people aged 5-25 years, their families and the professionals who work with them.

The overall aim of YCT is to support children, young people and their families through challenging times so that they can feel hopeful about their futures.

Call: 01279 414 090 Email: admin@yctsupport.com

The Silver Line The Silver Line is the only confidential, free helpline for older people across the UK, open every day and night of the year. You may call for a chat, to say good night or good morning to someone, or to tell someone how your day was. You may also call for information or advice about something, or share a concern or worry.

Call: 0800 470 8090 Email: info@thesilverline.org.uk Visit: www.thesilverline.org.uk

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Here for you

Healthy Minds

Healthy Minds provides therapies and practical support for people experiencing mental health problems including depression, anxiety and long term conditions (physical health problems).

Healthy Minds is part of Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with West Essex Mind and the national initiative Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT).

Call: 0300 222 5943 Email: healthyminds.harlow@nhs.net

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Here for you

Employment Keeping safe at work Employers must ensure workplaces are COVID secure. Risk assessments and appropriate actions need to be undertaken to make sure this happens. This should include attention to groups of employees who may be more at risk including those who are BAME, disabled, over 70 and with underlying health conditions.

If you have concerns, advice and help is available from ACAS, the Citizens Advice Bureau and Trades Unions.

ACAS: www.acas.org.uk/ coronavirus Call: 0300 123 1100 Visit: https://findyourunion.tuc. org.uk Visit: www.citizensadvice.org. uk/work Call: 0808 2787 856

Redundancy & job loss If you are at risk of redundancy or think you may be about to lose your job, check your rights

Work Matters at the Citizens Advice Bureau, ACAS or your trade union.

Visit: www.citizensadvice.org. uk/work/leaving-a-job/ Call: 0808 2787 856 Visit: www.acas.org.uk/ redundancy Call: 0300 123 1100

Need to retrain?

The world of work is changing, if you think you need different skills to help you get another job there are agencies that may be able to help: https://nationalcareers.service. gov.uk Call: 0800 100 900 Visit: www.aclessex.com Call: 0345 603 7635 Visit: www.harlow-college. ac.uk/study-options/part-timecourses-adults Call: 01279 868000 If you’re being made redundant you may be able to access support with training through government funding via the DWP/Jobcentre Plus by claiming Universal Credit.

Visit: www.gov.uk/universalcredit

The DWP will also contact employers when they declare redundancies to offer support from a range of partner organisations.

What to do if you lose your job For guidance on what to do if you have lost your job due to COVID-19: www.gov.uk/guidance/ coronavirus-covid-19-what-todo-if-you-were-employed-andhave-lost-your-job

Engage Project The Engage project is aimed at women who are unemployed or economically inactive and would like to move in to employment, education or training.

To participate you must have the right to live and work in the UK. This project will help you build a personal pathway to help you get to where you want to be.

Email: kate@rainbowservices.org.uk Call: 07598 530305

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Here for you

Money Matters Food costs

Harlow Foodbank provides emergency food and care parcels to individuals and families during times of crisis.

All public referrals can be made through Harlow Citizens Advice. Professional referrals to Foodbank can be made via Harlow Frontline.

Job loss/ redundancy

You might be told you are at risk of redundancy if your employer has to reduce their workforce.

Facing redundancy can be stressful and confusing.

Harlow Citizens Advice Bureau Call: 0808 2787 856 Visit: www.citizensadvice.org.uk Further information about redundancy and your rights can also be found on the following websites: www.gov.uk provides information on redundancy rights and help to find work.

Money Saving Expert: www.moneysavingexpert.com/ family/redundancy-help/

Harlow Food Bank via Harlow Citizens Advice Call: 01279 724575

ACAS: www.acas.org.uk/yourrights-during-redundancyÂ

Email: harlowfoodbank@ mrct.org.uk Visit: www.harlowcab.org.uk

Looking for work?

The Transition Project provides a free service to help anyone looking for work.

They offer weekly clinics, with remote but personal support by phone, email, Zoom and Skype.

If you are worried about money, concerned that you have been discriminated against or that your redundancy is unfair, or if you need help to claim benefits such as Universal Credit, contact Harlow Citizens Advice.

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The Transition Project Call: 01799 500543 Email: swtransitionproject @gmail.com Visit: www.transitionproject.co.uk

Here for you

Be scam aware

Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police.

They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment. Stop and think.

It could protect you and your money.

1.

STOP Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.

2.

CHALLENGE Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

3.

PROTECT Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud.

Take Five to Stop Fraud Visit: takefive-stopfraud.org.uk

Action Fraud

(To report fraud or cyber-crime, Monday to Friday 8am-8pm) Call: 0300 123 2040 If you are deaf or hard of hearing, text phone: 0300 123 2050 Visit: www.actionfraud.police.uk

Get help to stay connected To help reduce loneliness and social isolation (virtually), Rainbow Services are able to loan technical equipment for a period of one week at a time, for those that are eligible, so that they can remain socially connected. A Digital Buddy could be made available to offer support to get connected Email: jemmaw@rainbowservices.org.uk Call: 07849 090 735

Citizens Advice Harlow provides information and advice on subjects including benefits, debt, employment, housing, immigration, consumer, pensions, legal, energy, warm homes and family issues.

For webchat and email advice visit www. harlowcitizensadvice.org.uk For telephone and video call appointments please call 0808 2787 856 and leave a message.

For help on claiming Universal Credit call 0800 144 84 44.

Textphone: 18001 0800 144 84 44 To speak to an adviser call Essex Adviceline: 03444 770 808 Textphone: 03444 111 445 Main advice line: 0800 144 88 48

Help stop loan sharks

It is now quicker and easier for people to report loan sharks and access support. A new Stop Loan Sharks app has been launched which includes a contact form and phone number to report loan sharks.

If you need support get in touch via the app or call the 24-hour helpline on 0300 555 2222.

The app is free to download on both iOS and Android devices on the App Store and Google Play Store.

Textphone: 0800 144 88 84 Monday to Friday 10am-4pm

Harlowsave Credit Union Harlowsave Credit Union is a local community financial co-operative, offering flexible savings and loan options.

Call: 01279 451234 Email: admin@harlowsave.coop Visit: harlowsave.coop

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Here for you

Help with your council bills

Please contact Harlow Council straight away if you are having genuine difficulty in paying your Council Tax or housing rent. They will consider your circumstances and work with you to agree realistic repayments.

Council Tax helps to provide services to you, so if you are able to pay Council Tax it is important that you do so.

Council Tax also pays towards services run by Essex County Council including Adult Social Care as well as paying for services provided by Essex Police and Essex Fire Service.

If you are having difficulties you can email the council at council.tax@harlow.gov.uk or call 01279 446688.

You must pay rent as part of your tenancy agreement.

This income provides tenants with housing-related services which includes the ongoing maintenance of homes and carrying out of repairs.

The council will work with you to resolve any arrears that arise. They only ever take recovery action as a last resort and only against tenants who are able to pay their rent but choose not to.

If you are having difficulties call Harlow Council on 01279 446655.

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Help with your Council Tax

You can apply for Council Tax Support to help you pay your Council Tax if you’re on a low income or claiming benefits.

You may also be able to claim Housing Benefit if you’re claiming this support.

Visit www.harlow.gov.uk or call us on 01279 446655 to apply.

Help with your rent Many tenants who have experienced financial difficulties as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic have been working closely with the council, receiving advice and support and making realistic agreements to address arrears that may have mounted up.

You may be able to receive extra short-term help with your rent by applying for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP).

You can claim a DHP if you already receive the housing element of Universal Credit, or receive Housing Benefit, but need help to meet your rent.

Payments may be made by a single lump sum payment, or by on-going weekly payments, and are intended to provide short term financial assistance.

Visit www.harlow.gov.uk/ benefits for an application form or call 01279 446655.

Different ways to pay

During lockdowns residents have found other ways to pay their council bills without needing to visit the Civic Centre. Other ways to pay include: • Setting up a Direct Debit • Online www.harlow.gov.uk • 24 hour automated payment line 01279 446600 • Standing orders • Bank transfer For more on payment options visit www.harlow.gov.uk or call us on 01279 446655.

Support for Leaseholders If you are experiencing genuine financial difficulties in paying your annual service charges or major works invoice, please contact Harlow Council’s Home Ownership team on 01279 446206 or email homeownership@harlow.gov.uk If you receive a state pension or you are unemployed, Universal Credit may, in some cases, offer you financial support. If you have a mortgage provider you can approach them, explaining your situation and they may pay the invoice on your behalf and add the amount on to your mortgage.

Please do not ignore these invoices as recovery action can be taken to collect the monies owed.

app features

Here for you

Protect your loved ones.

Get the app.

Helping us all to support the NHS by reducing the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Protect your loved ones.

Download the app.

Download the NHS COVID-19 Test and Trace app today by searching for “NHSCOVID-19” in the App Store or Google Play Store on your phone.

View area risk level

Trace

Alert

Check-in

Get alerted if you’ve been near other app users who have tested positive for coronavirus

Lets you know the level of coronavirus risk in your postcode district

Get alerted if you have recently visited a venue where you may have come into contact with coronavirus

Symptoms

Test

Isolate

Check if you have coronavirus symptoms and see if you need to order a free test

Helps you book a test and get your result

Keep track of your self-isolation countdown and access relevant advice

To download the NHS COVID-19 app, search for “NHSCOVID-19” in the App Store / Google Play Store on your phone

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Here for you

Home Matters Supported Existing Housing Schemes Supported There are 17 Supported Housing tenants Housing Schemes in Harlow, providing housing with support for those over the age of 65.

Accommodation consists of bungalows and flats with communal areas, to enable tenants to mix and socially integrate.

To find out more about how to apply for Supported Housing please call 01279 446655.

If you are an existing Sheltered Housing Tenant and are experiencing any issues or problems with paying your rent please speak to your Housing Support and Telecare Officer.

Alternately, you can call Contact Harlow on 01279 446655 for general issues and the HTS Repair Centre on 01279 446666 to report any repairs.

Careline The Careline alarm is available to anyone of any age who is vulnerable, living alone, disabled, elderly or feels at risk for any reason.

Tackling Harlow’s housing need

This gives them the confidence that they always have somebody to help them in an emergency.

The Housing Needs Register remains open and you can apply from the council’s website.

To find out more about the Careline service please telephone 01279 446361.

Visit: www.harlow.gov. uk/housing-and-garages/ homelessness/finding accommodation

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Get help to prevent you from becoming homeless If you think you might become homeless in the next 10 days, it’s important you contact Harlow Council as soon as possible on 01279 446655 for housing advice.

There are many reasons why you may be at risk of losing your home: • Rent arrears private sector and social housing • Mortgage arrears • Loss of income • Friends/family are no longer able to accommodate you • Private landlord is selling the property • Change in your circumstances • Domestic abuse and fleeing violence

Get help, advice and support

If you are threatened with homelessness or think you might become homeless with 56 days, don’t wait, seek housing advice and assistance at the earliest opportunity.

Here for you

You can complete the Initial Assessment by accessing visiting www.harlow.gov. uk/housing-and-garages/ homelessness/help-if-youare-homeless and an officer will contact you to arrange a telephone interview.

The council wishes to help you and your family avoid becoming homeless and are often able to help people to stay in their homes.

If not, they may be able to assist you in finding alternative accommodation.

They will take all reasonable steps to prevent homelessness for anyone at risk.

The council has a dedicated Housing Options & Advice Team who can offer advice on: • Preventing homelessness under the Homelessness Reduction Act • Securing accommodation when homeless • The rights of people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and our duties • Any help that is available from the council or other agencies, for people who are homeless or who are threatened with homelessness, including how to access that help

Rough sleeping If you are concerned that someone is rough sleeping please visit Street Link at www.streetlink.org.uk to get them help. The referral just takes a minute. You will be asked to provide the following information: • A specific location for the rough sleeping site – you can do this by using a map to pinpoint the exact location and then providing a written description of the location • Details of the time that the rough sleeper has been seen at the location • Any information about the rough sleeper that will help find them (gender, approximate age, what the person looks like, what they are wearing) Alternatively, speak to a Harlow Council Customer Advisor by calling 01279 446655.

Information is used to help find the individual and connect them to support.

Tenant and leaseholder engagement It is now more vital than ever that Harlow Council continues to keep tenants and leaseholders informed of issues that may affect them, spreading awareness through various channels like Facebook, email and Twitter.

If you would like to speak to someone about how the council engages with tenants and leaseholders, please call Zulfi Kiani-Mackintosh on 01279 446330.

Dealing with council housing repairs

During these difficult times HTS (Property and Environment) Ltd continue to carry out emergency, urgent and routine repairs, to council properties.

There may, however, still be a backlog of works and it may take longer for your repairs to be completed. To report a repair call the HTS Repair Centre on 01279 446666.

‘My Home’ online portal

Harlow Council has recently launched an online portal for tenants and leaseholders that lets them access their accounts online. Once registered, the portal platform provides a safe, secure and flexible way to access your account online at a time that suits you. Some of the things you can do include: • View you rent account details or print off a copy of your statement • Request a change of payment method • View your tenancy details • Request Repairs to your property • View your service charges accounts For more information and to view the MyHome portal, visit https://myhome.harlow.gov.uk or call 01279 446655.

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Here for you

Safeguarding yourself or others Adults: If you are concerned about the welfare of an adult that has needs for care and support and think they may be at risk of, or are experiencing, abuse or neglect you can report this direct to Adult Social Care.

You can contact the service for anything from information and advice about the abuse and the safety of adults, to the disclosure of a concern about your own safety or somebody that you know.

Your concerns will be taken seriously and investigated appropriately.

Call: 0345 603 7630 or email socialcaredirect@essex.gov.uk Children: If you are concerned that a child or young person is being harmed or neglected or is at risk, go to the Essex Effective Support website for information about how to report your concern: www.essexeffectivesupport. org.uk/ 20

Need Help?

Alternatively, call 0345 603 7627 and ask for the Children & Families Hub (state that you are a member of the public). You will speak to a Family Adviser who will discuss your concerns with you.

Southend, Essex and Thurrock domestic abuse partnership (SETDAB) provide advice and information on services for those affected by domestic abuse. For more details visit https://setdab.org/

If the Adviser feels that there are concerns that require Social Care involvement they will complete a request with you.

Call: COMPASS Essex Domestic Abuse Helpline 0330 3337444

If the child is at immediate risk of significant harm, call 0345 603 7627 - ask for the ‘Priority Line’ or call the police on 999.

Domestic abuse

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone. Abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial or sexual.

We all have arguments and may disagree with partners, family members and others close to us from time to time. However, anyone forced to alter their behaviour because they are frightened of their partner’s or family member’s reaction is being abused. Domestic abuse is rarely a one-off. Incidents generally become more frequent and severe over time.

Call: Safer Places 03301 025811 Email: info@saferplaces.co.uk In an emergency telephone 999.

Support for carers Carers FIRST Essex offers help and support for carers across the county. The Carers Hub remains open and webchat is available at various times in the week. Action for Family Carers provides information and support to unpaid carers.

Carers FIRST Essex Call: 0300 303 1555 Email: hello@carersfirst.org.uk Visit: www.carersfirst.org.uk/ essex Action for Family Carers Call: 0300 770 8090 Email: care@affc.org.uk Visit: www.affc.org.uk

Here for you

Family support The Treehouse Family Hub is a happy and friendly environment which offers a wide range of services and information for all the family.

Tree House Family Hub, Parnall Road, Harlow, CM18 7NG www.essexfamilywellbeing. co.uk/centre/tree-housefamily-hub/ If you have a query please call 0300 2470122. When emailing please specify which location your query relates to vcl.essexwesthftcentraladminhub@nhs.net

Getting around in Harlow Public transport

Please wear a face covering whilst using public transport to protect yourself and those around you. For up-to-date bus times, please visit: traveline.info

Harlow Community Transport

Harlow Community Transport provides a service to those who find it difficult to access normal public transport, the over 60’s, the disabled and those who are rurally isolated.

All minibuses are wheelchair accessible.

Call: 01279 798876 Email: efct@community transport.org.uk

Leah Manning Centre The Leah Manning Centre provides specialist day care for older Harlow residents with a range of support needs.

Under contract with Essex County Council Adult Social Care, the centre offers daytime activities and opportunities that support individuals; maximising independence, gaining and maintaining skills for everyday living and enabling them to be part of their community.

Call: 01279 446121 Visit: www.harlow.gov.uk/ leahmanning

Community Agents Essex

Community Agents is a countrywide network of agents and volunteers who support older people and informal carers to find and develop independent living solutions from within their local community.

The service is delivered through a community and voluntary sector partnership consisting of Rural Community Council of Essex, British Red Cross, Age UK Essex and Essex Neighbourhood Watch.

To arrange a free visit: Call: 0800 9775858 Email: enquiries@caessex.org.uk

Dementia support Dementia Connect is the Alzheimers Society’s personalised support service for those who need help supporting someone living with dementia. It’s free, easy to access, and puts you in touch with the right support, from local help to telephone and online advice.

Call: 0333 150 3456 Visit: www.dementiaconnect. alzheimers.org.uk

Virtual musical memories group

Fridays at 2.30pm supported by Linda Ranger, Harlow Hospital Radio, for further information please contact Dementia Team 01279 278233.

Carers First Support for carers

Call: 0300 303 1555 jayne.moscow@carersfirst.org.uk alison.pettit@carersfirst.org.uk

Alzheimers Society Essex

01245 260911 Email: essex@alzheimers.org.uk

The NHS Dementia guide www.nhs.uk/conditions/ dementia/about/

Essex Dementia Care 01245 363789

Visit: www. communityagentsessex.org.uk

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Here for you

Useful Contacts Some other useful contacts and information sources: Essex Coronavirus Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Facebook: www.facebook.com/essexcoronavirusaction Essex County Council Young Carers. . . . . . . . . Email: young.carers@essex.gov.uk .Visit: www.essex.gov.uk/young-carers Essex Wellbeing Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Call: 0300 303 9988 A one stop shop for wellbeing support in Essex. . . . . . Email: provide.essexwellbeing@nhs.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Visit: www.essexwellbeingservice.co.uk Library services in Essex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Call: 0345 603 7628 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Email: answers.direct@essexcc.gov.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Visit: www.essex.gov.uk/essex-libraries Next Chapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Call: 01206 500585 / 01206 761276 For victims of domestic abuse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email: info@thenextchapter.org.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Visit: www.thenextchapter.org.uk Support for Sight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Call: 01799 588897 Delivering services for blind and partially. . . . . . . . . . . Email: info@support4sight.org.uk sighted people of all ages in Essex. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Visit: www.support4sight.org.uk Volunteer Centre Harlow. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Call: 01279 308310 / 01279 308314Â . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Email: dellanash@volunteercentreharlow.org.uk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Visit: www.volunteercentreharlow.org.uk

This booklet contains icons using resources from flaticon.com

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We must keep on protecting each other.

This booklet had been produced by Harlow Community Hub to provide you with information on local services offering support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year has really shown the power of community support. You may now feel better connected to your neighbours than you ever did before. Sometimes though, you may still feel like you need a little extra support, whether that might be to collect some shopping or a prescription for example. If that is the case, please contact the Hub. We can match you up with a volunteer who can help you. We can also tell you about the services that are available to support you and give you advice on COVID-19 and the latest government updates.

If you have been informally involved in helping your community during this time and would like to be kept informed of local information that may be useful to you and your community please get in touch.

Harlow Community Hub Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Telephone: 01279 927005 Email: harlowcommunityhub@harlow.gov.uk The information in this booklet is correct at the time of printing (November 2020).

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus please visit:

www.gov.uk/coronavirus www.harlow.gov.uk/coronavirus www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ This booklet can be provided in large print and alternative formats.

Please contact 01279 446655.