Coronavirus
Shielding information
High local COVID alert level
You must:
- Not meet people socially anywhere indoors
- Only meet people outdoors in groups of up to 6
- Work from home if possible
- Reduce the number of journeys you make
Find all local restrictions and laws at gov.uk/coronavirus
Guidance on shielding and protecting people who are clinically extremely vulnerable from COVID-19
Advice on shielding changed on 6 July. Essential food parcel deliveries ended on 31 July.
This guidance is for everyone who has been identified as clinically extremely vulnerable. If you are in this group, you will previously have received a letter from the NHS or from your GP telling you this. You may have been advised to shield in the past.
NHS Volunteer Responders
NHS Volunteer Responders will continue to offer support to those who need it, including collecting and delivering food and medicines.
Essex Wellbeing Service
The Essex Wellbeing Service (previously known as Essex Welfare Service) supports people in the community and at work with a range of health, wellbeing and day to day needs.
They help people access information and support to stay healthy, safe and well from help to quit smoking, to supporting families adapt to ‘new normal’.
Accessing food and essential supplies
There are many ways for those who are shielding to get access to food and other essentials. Make use of the supermarket priority delivery slots that are available.
Voluntary Action Epping Forest support residents with food packages, medicine collection and a friendly chat during lockdown.
Health at home
The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak means people need to be able to access health and care services from home – you can get NHS help using your smartphone, computer or tablet.
Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
During this time, you may be bored, frustrated or lonely. You may also feel low, worried, anxious, or be concerned about your health or that of those close to you. These are all common reactions to the difficult situation we face.
Everyone reacts differently to events and changes in the way that we think, feel and behave vary between different people and over time. It’s important that you take care of your mind as well as your body.
Work and financial support
Guidance and support on:
- Open all sections
- Getting financial support
- Help with redundancy and finding work
- Working safely
- Working from home
- Childcare
- Holiday and sick leave
Find out what support you can get if you’re affected by coronavirus
Use this service to find out what help and advice you can get from the government and other organisations. You can use it for yourself or someone else.