Last updated 3rd March 2020
Background
Everyone is now concerned about the potential impact of Coronavirus because it is a new virus and because there is, as yet, no vaccine in circulation and people have not developed any natural immunity to it.
Although the effects of the virus on healthy people are thought to be mild, those who are elderly and with any kind of underlying health problem could be at more risk of developing a serious illness if they are exposed to and contract Covid-19.
It’s also very disruptive to have to be in isolation and, in terms of SMART CJS as a provider of services to local populations, it may have an impact on our ability to continue to deliver services in certain areas.
We are working hard to keep our services safe
Rest assured that we are continually updating our information and ensuring a safe environment for our service users, staff, suppliers, sub-contractors and volunteers.
Be aware of the symptoms
The following symptoms may develop in the 14 days after exposure to someone who has Covid-19 infection:
- A cough
- A high temperature
- Shortness of breath
What to do if you think you have the virus:
- If you suspect you may have contracted the Covid-19 infection, you SHOULD NOT attend a SMART CJS service without first accessing advice and calling and speaking to the SMART CJS team
- Call NHS 111
- DO NOT go directly to your GP or other healthcare environment
- Take the ONLINE TEST
- Access general advice from the NHS about what to do and how best to minimize spread
I DO NOT have symptoms of the Coronavirus and am due to attend a SMART CJS service. What shall I do?
If you have an appointment with one of our drugs and alcohol services in Wokingham or Oxford
Please attend – The service will contact you personally if there is any problem or for any reason you should not attend. All services are working as usual currently.
If you are attending or dropping into one of our Somewhere Safe to Stay Hubs in Milton Keynes or Bedford or SMART Prebend Centre, Bedford
Please do come. If there is a problem, we will try to notify you and, as last resort, there will be clear signage outside and instructions about where to get support and assistance. All services are working as usual currently.
Subcontractors/suppliers
If you supply a service to a SMART CJS location, you will be informed personally if there is any reason you should not come as usual. This includes partners such as GPs, Cleaners, Food suppliers, Therapists & Counsellors. Equally please let us know ASAP if there is any reason you will not attend/supply your usual service.
Volunteers
Please report for your arranged session or shift as usual. We will let you know personally if the situation changes. If you are unable to attend – please let us know in the usual way.
I HAVE symptoms of the Coronavirus and am due to attend a SMART CJS service. What shall I do?
Follow the instructions above (What to do if you think you have the virus).
Keep up to date
Key information from the government:
Additional resources
- Diabetes UK has provided an updated information pagefor people living with diabetes.
- Asthma UK has released a blog post with advice for people with asthma.
- The British Heart Foundation has published guidance for people with health problems.
- The Cystic Fibrosis Trust, Primary Immunodeficiency UKand the Mental Health Foundation have all issued advice and support.
What’s the best way to prevent the spread of covid-19?
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. This is particularly important after taking public transport
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in a bin
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces in the home and work environment
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands