COVID-19

Coronavirus vaccinations

NHS Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) COVID-19 vaccinations in Dorset

Click here to get current information about the COVID-19 vaccination programme roll-out in Dorset

Click here for advice on safe travel to your vaccination

Need transport to get to your vaccination?

Vaccs Express buggies on hand at the BIC (Bournemouth International Centre) to help those who are less mobile

In the UK, coronavirus vaccines are available free through the National Health Services of England, Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland.  You can be contacted by the NHS, your employer, a GP surgery or pharmacy local to you, to receive your vaccine. Remember, the vaccine is free of charge. You will not be asked to pay.

*new* 23 February 2021: Following the Prime Minister's announcement on 22 February about how the current lockdown will start to be eased, please note that we will update our information when the changes come into effect.

Find out more here about the roadmap announced by the Prime Minister

*new* 12 January 2021:

• Visiting in and out of care homes - updated below
• The Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) needs your continued support, now - Read their open letter here (opens in a new window)

*new* 5 January 2021: England is now in a nationwide lockdown

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home

*new* 14 December 2020: COVID-19 vaccination: guide for older adults

This leaflet explains who is eligible and who needs to have the COVID-19 vaccine to protect them from coronavirus.

There is also a message from the British Islamic Medical Association concerning the COVID-19 vaccine:  http://www.dorsetrec.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/British-Islamic-Medical-Association-statment-on-COVID-Vaccine.jpg
 

Government information

All government COVID-19 information: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

Visiting arrangements in and out of care homes: 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visiting-care-homes-during-coronavirus/update-on-policies-for-visiting-arrangements-in-care-homes (updated on 12 January)

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/arrangements-for-visiting-out-of-the-care-home/visits-out-of-care-homes (updated on 12 January)

Guidance for the clinically vulnerable and clinically extremely vulnerable: 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19 (updated 31 December)

Face coverings: when to wear one, exemptions and how to make your own: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own (updated 4 December)

Disabled people exempt from wearing face coverings under government guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/disabled-people-exempt-from-wearing-face-coverings-under-new-government-guidance.  Local bus operators are offering free assistance cards to show to the driver to avoid confusion.  Visit morebus and Yellow Buses to find out more.

Get COVID-19 support as an extremely vulnerable person: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus-extremely-vulnerable

'Test and trace' - free service launched: www.gov.uk/government/news/government-launches-nhs-test-and-trace-service 

How 'Test and trace' works: www.gov.uk/guidance/nhs-test-and-trace-how-it-works

NHS information

NHS information on COVID-19: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

Local information

BCP Council's local information: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID19/coronavirus-covid-19.aspx

Dorset Council's local information: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/emergencies-severe-weather/emergencies/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19.aspx

Independent advice on health and social care from Healthwatch Dorset: https://healthwatchdorset.co.uk/advice-information/

Advice for people with dementia and their families

Advice and support from Age UK for people affected by dementia: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/coronavirus-covid-19

Dementia UK advice for people with dementia and their families: www.dementiauk.org/dementia-uk-coronavirus-advice/

Supporting a person with dementia at home: www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/coronavirus/supporting-person-dementia-home#content-start

Support for a person with dementia living alone: www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/coronavirus/support-person-dementia-living-alone#content-start

Supporting a person with dementia from a distance: www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/coronavirus/supporting-person-dementia-distance#content-start

The IDEAL Programme has leaflets about how people with dementia can stay well during the coronavirus epidemic, and also one for family members or friends supporting a person with dementia on how to support someone with dementia during the coronavirus epidemic.

Advice for people with autism/learning disability, their families and professionals

Advice for families and professionals supporting autistic adults and adults with learning disabilities: Social Care Institite for Excellence > COVID-19: Supporting autistic people and people with learning disabilities

Guidance for care staff who are supporting adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak: COVID-19: supporting adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults

Bereavement

Information to help bereaved families, friends or next of kin: www.gov.uk/government/publications/support-for-the-bereaved  

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

Carers UK has information and advice about COVID-19 that carers and those they look after may find useful, including:

• Creating well-being action plans

• Planning for contingencies/emergencies

• Sources of support

• How technology can help

• Guidance for working carers

You can find this at https://www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice/health/looking-after-your-health/coronavirus-covid-19 (updated 4 January)

Guidance from GOV.UK for those who provide unpaid care to friends or family

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-providing-unpaid-care/guidance-for-those-who-provide-unpaid-care-to-friends-or-family (updated 23 December 2020)

Keeping calm and well: tips for you and those you care for

These tips are designed to help both you and those you care for look after yourselves and protect your mental well-being.

https://www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice/health/looking-after-your-health/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-mental-wellbeing

Latest FAQs and guidance on common concerns from carers

https://www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice/health/looking-after-your-health/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-further-support

Support groups local to you

Type in your postcode for details of local community support groups (mainly local Facebook groups):

https://covidmutualaid.org/local-groups/

Carers can also find support from CRISP (Carers Resource Information Support Programme):

https://crispweb.org/coronavirus-update.aspx

Tel: 01202 458204
Email: carersupport@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

Virtual 'Cuppa' for carers

Mobilise is running a virtual 'Cuppa' for carers at 4pm, which is proving popular.

https://www.mobiliseonline.co.uk/cuppa

Mobilise is an organisation providing a daily e-support package through the COVID-19 crisis. It includes links to key information, updates on how other carers are finding ways of coping, and suggestions for entertainment at home. The service is completely free, and carers and those providing care services can sign up here:

https://james816492.typeform.com/to/NZSl88

Podcast for carers to help with self-care during the pandemic developed in partnership with Dorset Healthcare carers lead, Dorset Mental Health Forum, Rethink and the Recovery Education Centre

https://soundcloud.com/user-186630975/am-i-a-carer-or-am-i-just-a-mum-a-daughter-a-son-a-wife-a-husband-a-friend

The organisations below may be able to provide help, support and advice to carers:

Carer Support Dorset
Carer Support Dorset
Unit B6 Nimrod Way
Ferndown
BH21 7UH

Contact details:

Tel: 0800 368 8349
Email: admin@carersupportdorset.co.uk
Website: www.carersupportdorset.co.uk

Dorset Carers Hub
Based in Dorchester, they provide information and advice for carers in and near Dorset.

Contact details:

Email: dorsetcarershub@gmail.com
Website: http://www.dorsetcarershub.com

Help and Care
The Pokesdown Centre
896 Christchurch Road
Bournemouth
BH7 6DL

Contact details:

Tel: 0300 111 3303
Website: https://www.helpandcare.org.uk/

PramaLIFE
The Barrington, Pennys Walk
Ferndown, BH22 9TH

Contact details:

Tel: 01202 207300
Website: https://www.pramalife.org

The Leonardo Trust
5 Dunyeats Road
Broadstone, Poole
BH18 8AA

Contact details:

Tel: 01202 698325
Email: info@leonardotrust.org
Website: http://www.leonardotrust.org

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

What has BCP Council Adult Social Care been doing to plan and respond to the COVID-19 outbreak?

We are working closely with health colleagues and Dorset Council to support the response to the COVID-19 outbreak. We are following our emergency plans, as well as government guidance.

How are you going to ensure people receive the care and support they need?

We are working with providers to achieve this. It will include a range of considerations from identifying the most vulnerable people, to ensure they continue to be supported, to identifying people who can be supported by their family and community networks during this time.

What are the arrangements if someone needs an assessment of their care and support needs?

We will make critical visits only and will undertake telephone assessments as far as possible. If visiting, we will check if the person has had any symptoms or been in contact with anyone with confirmed, or exposure to, COVID-19 prior to visiting and use personal protective equipment as appropriate.

Is there information on shopping support if people are self isolating?

If support is needed with shopping during this time, check for current information on services offering food and meal delivery services in your local area.

What is happening to day services?

Visit this BCP Council web page for the current situation:

https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID-19/Service-changes-and-updates/Services/Adult-social-care.aspx

What is happening around the provision of home care and within care home settings?

As part of assessing risk, we are undertaking calls with our service users to ascertain whether they present with any symptoms of COVID-19 before we visit. Care homes will determine their own access arrangements and families and friends are encouraged to contact the relevant home directly

The government has also issued new guidance for care workers outlining that they should use personal protective equipment (PPE) for activities that bring them into close personal contact, such as washing and bathing, personal hygiene and contact with the virus. This PPE includes aprons, gloves and fluid repellent surgical masks, and potentially eye protection, and care workers will start to use this equipment when somebody has symptoms. This equipment must be used only once. There is more information around the use of PPE in the government guidance https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-residential-care-supported-living-and-home-care-guidance/covid-19-guidance-on-home-care-provision

What are the hospital discharge arrangements for adults with care and support needs?

Whilst there are a small number of cases of COVID-19 in the BCP Council area, our health and care services are preparing for the eventuality that these numbers increase. They will be discharging patients who do not have critical care needs and we will be working with them to ensure packages of support are available in the community or in residential settings.

What arrangements are in place for people needing a financial assessment of their care needs?

BCP Council will continue to undertake financial assessments; however, these will now be undertaken via telephone.

What will happen regarding any disabled adaptation to my property during this period?

Visit this BCP Council web page for the current situation:

https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID-19/Service-changes-and-updates/Services/Adult-social-care.aspx

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

If you are a local resident struggling to afford food over the winter months then support is available to you.  If you have children in your household, call the BCP Council Family Information Service on 01202 261970. 

Together We Can

Whether you are self isolating, extremely vulnerable, or struggling with money there's help and support for you: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID-19/Help-advice-and-support/Food-support/Food-support.aspx 

Unable to get to the shops or housebound?

Together We Can (opens in a new window) maybe be able to help if you are unable to get to the shops.

Meal providers

Please see our directory for a full list of meal providers.  On this page are providers that have been confirmed as responding to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Guidance has been put together by BCP Council about how you can access food: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID19/Find-help-or-help-your-community/How-to-get-help/Food.aspx

Grocery delivery

Many of the major supermarkets offer grocery delivery.  See our Shopping for and preparing food page for a list.

You may find that smaller shops local to you will be happy to put items by for you for collection by a friend or neighbour, or may deliver, so it is worth phoning them to ask.

Meals

Crumbs at home - Collection or delivery.  Ready meals, pasta night specials, from the bakery, afternoon tea and authentic Indian for two: http://crumbsathome.org.uk/our-range/

Patisserie Mark Bennett - Delivery for orders over £10, payment over the phone, delivery within 3 miles of any of their shops (Ashley Cross, Bakehouse, Broadstone, Lilliput & Penn Hill). Call 01202 059444 between 7.30am and 11am for same-day delivery http://artisanmark.com/

Dovey's Frozen Foods -  https://mrsdoveysfrozenfoods.selz.com & Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/Doveys-Frozen-Foods-1415403418746460/ or call 01202 622322. From 11 May limited service with deliveries on Fridays for Bournemouth, Poole, Ringwood, Dorchester and Swanage

Oakhouse Foods - Minimum £10 order, full range of frozen products available, plus some fresh products including milk and eggs, and texture-modified foods. New customers welcome. https://www.oakhousefoods.co.uk/ or call 01202 814179

Phoenix Frozen Foods - Deliver to Christchurch, Poole, Ringwood, Wimborne and some surrounding areas. Minimum order of £15 for free delivery. https://phoenixfrozenfoods.co.uk/ or call 01903 215170

The Schooner Restaurant - Offering meal delivery at lunch times for people local to Southbourne. Call 01202 431609

Peppermill Southbourne - Restaurant in Southbourne offering delivery to vulnerable and self-isolating people. They offer roast dinners or traditional meals for £8 delivered to people in Southbourne area. Call 01202 426320 or email 40leebennett@gmail.com

Groceries

Poole Convenience Store, 72 High Street, Poole - Orders only between 7am and 9am  Call 01202 677266. Please have your shopping list ready. Offering ordering and payment over the phone, working with volunteers to collect and deliver. Essential items including a small frozen selection, canned goods and hygiene products.

Co-op Oakdale - Order online using Deliveroo only https://deliveroo.co.uk/menu/bournemouth/oakdale/co-op-oakdale-oakdale-road

Pamphill Dairy and Farm Shop - Minimum order of £20. Phone orders with delivery to Wimborne, Broadstone and surrounding areas, plus zero-contact collection service. Call 01202 880618

The Stocks Inn, Wimborne - Call between 9am and midday Monday to Wednesday to reserve order for delivery Tuesday to Friday. See their grocery essentials list at https://www.thestocksinn.co.uk/  and call 01202 882481

Faast Fruit and Veg - Can do fruit and veg box. Root veg £10, veg and salad £20, fruit £15. Contact simon.faast@gmail.com, http://www.wellfaast.com/ or call 01202 512000

Griffs Butchers, Broadstone - Free delivery to Broadstone, £3 delivery charge for rest of Poole area or free delivery with £30+ order. 01202 605172 or email sean.griffsbutchers@outlook.com

Paul Keating Butchers, Wimborne - Free delivery over £25 within 5-mile radius. Contact P.keatingbutchers@yahoo.co.uk or call 01202 883078

PJ Jones The Butchers - Deliveries to Whitecliff. Call 07902 008449

Smokeys Burgers Ashley Road - Supplying various meats. Message on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmokeysFlameGrilledBurgers/

Broadway Hengistbury Head - Deliveries to vulnerable people in the Southbourne and Tuckton area and within a 3-mile radius of the shop. Wide range of groceries including flour, eggs, yeast and frozen goods. Call 01202 245409 or 07468 565417

Food on the Loose - Zero waste food service offering free delivery. www.foodontheloosebournemouth.co.uk

TD Fruits - Delivery of general groceries. Call 01202 428994

Olio - Share food locally: https://olioex.com/

Crown Foods - Frozen and ambient food home delivery service (delivery area extended to include Bournemouth): www.crownfoods.co.uk/Home_Delivery_Service.html 

ShopForYou - phone to order your supermarket shopping and it will be delivered to your door by your chosen supermarket: see ShopForYou in our directory

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

Pharmacies with a prescription delivery service

BOURNEMOUTH

Arrowedge Pharmacy 62 Poole Road, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 9DZ  | 01202 763539 | Monday-Friday 09:00-18:00, Saturday 09:00-14:00 (Sunday closed)

Boots 626-628 Christchurch Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH1 4BP | 01202 393447 | Open Monday to Saturday 09:00-17:30, Sunday 10:00-16:00 and 10:00-16:00 on bank holidays

Bournemouth Commercial Road Boots 18-20 Commercial Road, Bournemouth BH2 5NL | 01202 551713 | Open Monday to Saturday 10:00-17:00, Sunday 10:30-16:30 | special store opening times Friday 8 May 09:00-18:00

Bournemouth Westbourne Boots 72 Poole Road, Bournemouth BH4 9DZ | 01202 761297 | Open Monday to Saturday 09:00-17:30 (closed on Sundays)

Bournemouth Winton Boots  358-362 Wimborne Road, Bournemouth BH9 2HE | 01202 529969 | Open Monday to Saturday 09:00-17:30 (closed on Sundays and bank holidays)

Day Lewis Pharmacy  Shelly Manor Medical Centre, Beechwood Avenue, Boscombe BH5 1LX | 01202 399759 | Open Monday to Friday 08:00-23:59, Saturday 08:00-22:00 and Sunday 10:00-16:00 (closed on bank holidays)

Holdenhurst Pharmacy  5 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth BH8 8EH | 01202 554923 | Open Monday to Friday 09:00-13:00 and 14:00-17:30 and Saturday 09:00-13:00 (closed on Sunday and bank holidays)

Late Night Columbia Chemist  21-23 Columbia Road, Ensbury Park, Bournemouth BH10 4DZ | 01202 529529 | Open Monday to Friday 09:00-19:00 and Saturday 09:00-18:00 (closed on Sundays and bank holidays)

Poole Bay Pharmacy Westbourne Medical Centre, Milburn Road, Bournemouth BH4 9HJ | 01202 762680 | Open Monday to Saturday 08:00-20:00, Sunday 10:00-14:00

Queens Park Pharmacy  386 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth BH8 8HL | 01202 395023 | Open Monday to Friday 09:00-17:30, Saturday 09:00 to 13:00      

Westcliff Pharmacy  Poole Road Medical Centre, 7 Poole Road , Bournemouth BH2 5QR | 01202 765155 | Open Monday to Friday 08:30-18:30 (closed Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays)

Wrights Pharmacy  88 Charminster Avenue, Bournemouth BH9 1SE | 01202 510068 | Open Monday to Friday 08:30-17:30 and Saturday 09:00-17:00 (closed on Sundays and bank holidays)

CHRISTCHURCH

Christchurch Saxon Square Boots 23 Saxon Square, Christchurch BH23 1QB | 01202 483034 | Open Monday to Saturday 09:00-17:30 and Sunday 10:00-16:00 | Special store opening times Friday 8 May from 10:00-16:00

Christchurch Twynham Avenue Boots 2A Twynham Avenue, Christchurch BH23 1QU | 01202 486276 | Open Monday to Friday 09:45-17:15

Highcliffe Pharmacy Highcliffe Medical Centre, 248 Lymington Road, Highcliffe BH23 5ET | 01425 272778 | Open Monday to Friday 08:30-18:30 (closed on Saturdays and Sundays)

Lloyds Pharmacy  595 Christchurch Road, Boscombe BH1 4AN | 01202 394702 | Open Monday to Friday 08:30-18:00 and Saturday 09:00-13:00 (closed on Sundays and bank holidays)

Rowlands Pharmacy 136 Purewell, Christchurch BH23 1EU | 01202 484840 | Open Monday to Friday 10.00-13.00 and 14.00-18.30 and Saturday 10.00-13.00 (closed on Sundays)

The Grove Pharmacy  Christchurch Hospital, Fairmile Road, Christchurch | 01202 484310 | Open Monday to Friday 09:00-18:00 and Saturdays 09:00-13:00 (closed on Sundays)

Day Lewis Pharmacy Burton Medical Centre, 123 Salisbury Road. Burton Green, Christchurch BH23 7JN | 01202 477771 | Open Monday to Friday 09:00-13:00 and 14:00-18:30 (closed on Saturdays and Sundays)

Vantage Pharmacy  95 Poole Road, Westbourne, Bournemouth BH4 9BB | 01202 761177 | Open Monday to Saturday 09:00-17:30 (closed on Sundays and bank holidays)

Winton Pharmacy  309 Wimborne Road, Winton, Bournemouth BH9 2AB | 01202 517097 | Open Monday to Friday 09:00-18:00 and Saturday 09:00-13:00 (closed on Sundays)
 

POOLE

Arrowedge Pharmacy 12 Neighbourhood Centre, Culliford Crescent, Canford Heath, Poole BH17 9DW | 01202 691357 | Monday-Friday 09:00-17:30, Saturday 09:00-13:00 (Sunday closed)      

Boots Pharmacy 190-196 High Street, Poole BH15 1SX | 01202 681377 | Monday-Saturday 08:30-17:30,  Sunday 10:30-16:30

Boots Pharmacy 300-302 Blandford Rd, Poole BH15 4JQ | 01202 678001 | Monday-Friday 09:30-16:00, Saturday 09:30-12:30 (Sunday closed)             

Boots Pharmacy 3 Adastral Square, Adastral Rd, Poole, Canford Heath BH17 8SA | 01202 676889 | Monday-Saturday 10:00-16:00 (Sunday closed)

Boots Pharmacy Redlands, Poole BH12 1DN | 01202 769838 | Monday-Friday 09:00-20:00, Saturday 09:00-18:00, Sunday 10:00-16:00

Boots Pharmacy 184B Lower Blandford Rd, Broadstone BH18 8DP | 01202 603812 | Monday-Friday 09:45-17:00, Saturday 09:45-16:30 (Sunday closed)   

Bryant Pharmacy 462 Ashley Road, Parkstone, Poole BH14 0AD | 01202 740176 | Monday-Saturday 09:00-17:30 (Sunday closed)

Canford Heath Pharmacy Inside Canford Heath Group Practice, 9 Mitchell Rd, Canford Hth, Poole BH17 8UE | 01202 671849 | Monday 08:30-20:00, Tuesday-Friday 08:30-18:30, Saturday 09:00-13:00, Sunday 10:00-13:00  

Day Lewis Pharmacy 28 Haven Road, Canford Cliffs, Poole BH13 7LP | 01202 700709 | Monday-Friday 09:00-17:30, Saturday 09:00-13:00 (Sunday closed)    

Day Lewis Pharmacy 6 Gillett Road, Talbot Village, Poole BH12 5BF | 01202 527600 | Monday-Friday 08:30-18:30, Saturday and Sunday closed

Lloyds Pharmacy 192c Lower Blandford Road, Broadstone BH18 8DP | 01202 692320 | Monday-Friday 08:30-18:30, Saturday 09:00-17:00 (Sunday closed)    

Lloyds Pharmacy 10 Station Road, Parkstone BH14 8UB | 01202 746071 | Monday-Friday 09:00-18:00, Saturday 09:00-13:00 (Sunday closed)         

Lloyds Pharmacy Mansfield Road, Parkstone BH14 0DJ | 01202 731764 | Monday-Friday 08:00-18:00, Saturday and Sunday closed

Lloyds Pharmacy Rosemary Road, Roseview, Poole BH12 3HF | 01202 737489 | Monday-Friday 08:30-18:30, Saturday and Sunday closed

Lytchett Pharmacy 16 High Street, Lytchett Matravers, Nr Poole  BH16 6BG | 01202 631815 | Monday-Friday 09:00-13:00, 14:00-18:00, Saturday and Sunday closed

Nimo Pharmacy 270 Herbert Avenue, Parkstone, Poole BH12 4HY | 01202 717714 | Monday-Friday 09:00-13:00, 14:00-18:00, Saturday 09:00-12:00 (Sunday closed)      

Wallisdown Pharmacy 337 Wallisdown Road, Poole BH12 5BU | 01202 859128 | Monday-Saturday 07:00-22:00, Sunday 09:00-19:00

ONLINE PHARMACY PRESCRIPTION DELIVERY SERVICES

Pharmacy 2U - https://www.pharmacy2u.co.uk/prescriptions/electronic-prescription-service-nhs

Well Pharmacy - https://www.well.co.uk/landing

Boots Pharmacy - https://www.boots.com/online/pharmacy/new-to-boots-triage

LloydsPharmacy - http://www.lloydspharmacy.com/en/info/nhs-repeat-prescriptions

Superdrug Pharmacy - https://onlinepharmacy.superdrug.com/

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

Help and Kindness 

Help and Kindness (opens in a new window) is a project to bring together information about all kinds of help and support available to people living and working in Dorset.  Their aim is to make it easier to get help, easier to give help, and easier to work together to build projects that make Dorset an even better place to live.  They work with residents, the private sector and community/voluntary sector to help improve everyone's well-being, independence and sense of community across the county.

Love food hate waste - visit the website to find out more about how to manage food, make sure it lasts as long as possible and waste less: 
www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/article/loving-food-and-hating-waste-%E2%80%93-lockdown#page-header

Age Concern North Dorset now offer a doorstep service to pick up shopping and prescriptions - Sturminster Newton and surrounding villages. Call 01258 475582 for more information.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue are offering safety and well-being advice over the phone

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue can provide free information during a 10- to 30-minute phone conversation at a time to suit you. Topics covered include cooking safely, testing smoke alarms, what to do in the event of a fire, keeping children safe, and identifying support you might need. They can also discuss ways to improve your health and well-being. In high-risk situations they may deliver or fit free smoke alarms. To find out more, call 0800 038 23 23 or visit www.dwfire.org.uk .

Help with laundry

The Ironing Service is offering a free collection and delivery service on orders costing a minimum of £10 for anyone who is struggling to get their laundry done, in particular bedding and towels. Go to www.the-ironing-services.co.uk or contact 01202 386426 or info@the-ironing-services.co.uk.

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

Winter support

If you would like to help your local community this winter by donating food and other items, or by volunteering, please visit www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/helpwintersupport.  

Together We Can 

Join BCP Council's 'Together We Can' community response: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID-19/Support-your-community/Support-your-community.aspx

Volunteering

• Volunteer to help the NHS: https://www.goodsamapp.org/NHS 
• Dorset Council's community response: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/emergencies-severe-weather/emergencies/coronavirus/co-ordinated-community-response.aspx

Have you formed a community group?

BCP Council have put together a Community Pack to support you during the ongoing COVID-19 situation. This includes web links, contact numbers, social media advice, guidance and Public Health England materials.

Community pack: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID19/Find-help-or-help-your-community/How-can-I-help/how-can-i-help.aspx

• If you are already involved in volunteering around COVID-19, register your service with Healthwatch Dorset to help build a network: https://mailchi.mp/eb087245ef14/volunteering-during-isolation
• If your group is in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area please email communities@bcpcouncil.gov.uk to help ensure your fellow residents can get help. Please provide:
  • Your group name
  • A contact telephone number you would be happy for us to publicise
  • A contact email address you would be happy for us to publicise
  • A brief description of the support your group can offer e.g. shopping, prescription pick-up, information and advice, outreach to vulnerable/elderly people
  • Specific locations across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole where your group can support

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing however if you discover anything has changed please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know. 

Guidance on shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19 (published 21 March 2020)
 

Dear Providers,

Dorset Council, BCP Council and Dorset CCG have jointly developed this website: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/coronavirus/asc-providers where they will publish answers to frequently asked questions and share daily advice and information to support you during the coronavirus pandemic. We will continue to email you to let you know when the website has been updated.

Please see the link below for the latest updates and a summary of emails that have been shared:

https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/emergencies-severe-weather/emergencies/coronavirus/guidance-for-adult-social-care-providers/latest-news-from-us.aspx 

Partners in Care
tel. 07887 717068
www.picbdp.co.uk

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

The NHS has information on easy exercises, including home exercise:

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/easy-low-impact-exercises/

LiveWell Dorset have information on a range of topics to stay healthy, including how you can get active to improve your health:

https://www.livewelldorset.co.uk/get-active/

We Are Undefeatable is a movement supporting people with a range of long-term health conditions, developed by 15 health and social care charities. Their purpose is to support and encourage finding ways to be active that work with your conditions.

https://weareundefeatable.co.uk

Activity ideas for people with dementia: www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/coronavirus/activity-ideas-dementia#content-start

The World Health Organisation has a Q&A about being active during COVID-19, including staying safe while exercising and how to exercise in and around the home: www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/question-and-answers-hub/q-a-detail/be-active-during-covid-19 

For more information about staying healthy, please see our Health and wellbeing section:

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

We need your help, now

Audio version of an open letter from the Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group:

https://www.dorsetccg.nhs.uk/an-open-letter-we-need-your-continued-help-now/  

BCP Council has a list of translation, easy read and signed format guidance:

https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID19/Translation-easy-read-and-signed-format.aspx

Sign Language support

SignLive's online British Sign Language (BSL) video interpreting service can help you stay in touch and help deaf residents during the coronavirus emergency:

https://signlive.co.uk/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI5JrI7ZXZ6AIVEsreCh3UwwxIEAAYASAAEgLsw_D_BwE

Easy read information

We need your continued help, now.  A letter to everyone in Dorset:

https://www.dorsetccg.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/we-need-your-continued-help-now.pdf  

Guidance from Mencap about the latest guidance from the government:

https://www.mencap.org.uk/advice-and-support/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-help-stay-safe-and-well

https://www.mencap.org.uk/advice-and-support/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-latest-guidance-government > Tier 4 Easy Read guidance

Shielding - coronavirus guidance on protecting people most likely to get very poorly from coronavirus:

http://learningdisabilitiesdorset.uk/useful-things-healthcare/covid-19-information-and-guidance/easy-read-shielding-phe-1

Looking after your feelings and body:

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/876996/Easy_read_looking_after_your_feelings_and_body.pdf

Staying at home and staying away from each other:

https://www.easy-read-online.co.uk/media/53210/free-document-on-the-lockdown-easy-read-lo-res_v1c.pdf

Wellbeing guide:

https://www.stroke.org.uk/sites/default/files/news/jn_1920.450_-_easy_read_resource_-_wellbeing.pdf

How to Take Care of Yourself during the Coronavirus Pandemic - An Easy Read Guide:

https://hubble-live-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/mylife/redactor2_assets/files/2984/Easy_read_Taking_care_of_yourself.pdf

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

Help available from Mental Health at Work

Government Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Advice from the NHS on mental wellbeing while staying at home
Mental health helplines

Other useful links

Steps2Wellbeing 
Support provided by public Health Dorset

Need urgent help?

If you are struggling to cope or feel yourself nearing a breakdown, Access Mental Health is here to provide help. Mental health professionals and peer support workers are on hand to help you avoid a crisis and find the path to recovery. Please call the 24/7 Connection phone line on 0300 123 5440 and you will be signposted to the right service for the support you need. 

Dorset Mind has created a five step crisis plan for those struggling with mental health, while for those seeking urgent help, up to date information is available here.

Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust provides support for those in crisis, including virtual support through the community front rooms, and a 24/7 Connection phone line which you can call on 0300 123 5440 to be signposted to the right service for the support you need.

New online support groups available

Dorset Mind has a timetable of online support groups for local people who need help with their mental health. There are no waiting times and everyone is welcome. If you are interested in attending an online group, please email Dorset Mind and they will contact you directly and support you to log in to the group.  The charity also offers a range of one to one and group support across Dorset including active monitoring, befriending, counselling and mentoring for eating disorders.

Support for 11-18-year-olds

Kooth offers free, safe and anonymous online support for young people Monday to Friday from 12noon to 10pm.

'Wellbeing: we're onside'

AFC Bournemouth and Dorset HealthCare have joined forces to kick off a 'Wellbeing: we're onside' campaign. They've got ideas to improve your well-being, including keeping active, feeding the family during lockdown, sleeping better and where to find professional help.

How to help others with their mental health

The NHS has some advice: www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/helping-others/ 

Click here to find advice from Samaritans about how to talk to someone you're worried about.

Advice and support for parents and carers

Working from home with your kids for the first time and don't know how to manage? Are you finding it difficult to explain coronavirus to an anxious child? Do you need advice on dealing with tantrums? The NSPCC has advice and support for parents and carers.

Young Minds also has some advice about supporting your child during the coronavirus pandemic: https://youngminds.org.uk/find-help/for-parents/

Helping children to stay safe online

Help keep children safe and ensure internet use is safe in these virtual spaces we are now using more and more. The Children's Society has published advice to help.

Worried about a colleague or employee or want to learn more about how your workplace can support staff's mental health?

Mental Health at Work can help you find the information and resources you need.
 

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please contact us to let us know.

NHS and government guidance

Government Guidance for the public on the mental health and well-being aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Advice from the NHS on mental well-being while staying at home

The best way to wash your hands

One of the most important and easiest ways to protect ourselves and others from coronavirus is to wash our hands regularly. The NHS has a handy step-by-step guide to proper hand washing technique: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/best-way-to-wash-your-hands/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SocialSignIn&utm_content=COVID19

Video calling 

Video calling is a good way to feel closer to others and it's a lot easier than you think. Age UK has a guide to setting it up.

Learning to meditate

LiveWell Dorset has some tips and advice on mindfulness meditation. Why not give it a try?

Virtual ecotherapy activities

Parks in Mind, run by the Bournemouth Parks Foundation, has created virtual ecotherapy activities to help improve people's health and well-being. See their Facebook page for the activities, which will include growing projects, photo challenges and online yoga and mindfulness.

Having trouble sleeping? 

NHS sleep advice and information

Every Mind Matters have some tips to get you to sleep and sleep better: 

• Keep regular sleep hours 
• Create a restful environment
• Move more, sleep better 
• Confront sleeplessness
• Write down your worries 
• Put down the pick-me-ups

Videos available on the BCP Council YouTube channel

Including how to make DIY hand scrub, craft ideas and storytime for children.  Take a look here. 

Online dance classes with Pavilion Dance South West [currently postponed as at 31 December]

A series of online dance classes from Pavilion Dance South West (PDSW) on their YouTube channel, for a wide range of abilities.  Including Latin, Contemporary, Dance Fitness and even some gentle dance exercises for the young at heart and therapeutic classes for the symptoms of Parkinson's.  These will resume when possible.  

'Wellbeing: we're onside'

AFC Bournemouth and Dorset HealthCare have joined forces to kick off a 'Wellbeing: we're onside' campaign. They've got ideas to improve your well-being, including keeping active, feeding the family during lockdown, sleeping better and where to find professional help.

See the world...without leaving your home

www.techradar.com/uk/best/virtual-tours-museums-national-parks-around-the-world 

Online creative well-being meet-up for people struggling with anxiety or low mood

Join Arts Programme Manager and artist Anna Shiels for an online creative well-being session every Tuesday at 3pm-4.30pm. These creative sessions are based on the 5 Ways to Well-being and are suitable for anyone whatever your previous art experience.  It is free to take part and no specialist materials are needed. This meet-up can help you take time out for yourself, enjoy relaxing mindful activity, slow down, connect with others and learn creative techniques to enjoy at home.

You will need:

• a piece of paper and a pencil (a biro and the back of an envelope will do if that's all you have), other art materials are optional;
• a computer, iPad or laptop (or you can use a mobile phone with internet access); 
• to download Zoom, which is free (https://zoom.us)

Go to the Poole Museum website to find out more.  To join, email Anna.shiels@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.  

My Dorset Mind

Few things benefit our well-being more than being outdoors, and few places are as beautiful as Dorset.

So, until we can all be there again, Dorset Mind wants to bring our incredible landscapes to you.

Advice and support for parents and carers

Are you finding it difficult to explain coronavirus to an anxious child? Do you need advice on dealing with tantrums? The NSPCC has advice and support for parents and carers.

Young Minds also has some advice about supporting your child during the coronavirus pandemic: https://youngminds.org.uk/find-help/for-parents/

Helping children to stay safe online

Help keep children safe and ensure internet use is safe in these virtual spaces we are now using more and more. The Children's Society has published advice to help.
 

Information and advice is changing rapidly, and information contained on these pages was correct at time of publishing. However, if you discover anything has changed, please use the 'give feedback' button to let us know.

Struggling with money?

Citizens Advice offer free and friendly guidance as part of  Let's Talk Money (opens in a new window).

Dorset Mind have included a guide on their website featuring advice for those worried about their finances, including links to other organisations that can help.