Important Information
Omicron updates
- There is a new Covid variant of concern which has reached the UK known as the Omicron variant.
- It’s in the nature of an pandemic to give rise to new variants.
- Despite the new variant, the deaths have reduced by 11% in the last week- thanks to vaccinations.
Boosters update
- Best single defence against Omicron is getting fully vaccinated and boosted when it’s your turn.
- Over 14 million more adults (all over the age of 18 years) have become eligible for the booster, and the target is to offer it to them by the end of January.
- Everyone aged 18 and above in England who has had their second dose of COVID-19 Vaccination at least 3 months ago will soon be eligible for a Booster jab.
- However, please don’t try and book your booster jab until the NHS says it’s your turn.
- The NHS is increasing capacity in the next few weeks, and will contact people between the ages of 18-39 years when it’s their turn to book. The Government will work through the age group by going down in 5-year bands.
- People aged 40 to 49 can get a booster vaccine six months after their second dose. You can book your booster via the National Booking System online, calling 119 or attending a walk-in clinic (Vaccine sites (St Charles, Violet Melchett) + Pharmacy clinics (7 pharmacies) or Vaccine Bus)
- Government response to Coronavirus
- Government guidance – Coronavirus: How to help safely
- For urgent medical help, contact the NHS 111 online service
- Click here for information on Coronavirus and Children.
- Click here to get Coronavirus support as a clinically extremely vulnerable person.
- Click here and here to protect yourself from criminals exploiting COVID-19 fears.
Mental Health
Mental health guidance for young people and children
The Government has shared some new guidance on how you can help young people and children with their mental health. Try some of their tips and remember to look after yourself as well.
There are a few ways you can stay well and work on your mental health. You can:
- stay in touch with family and friends over the phone or on social media
- try to keep yourself busy – you could try activities like cooking, reading, online learning and watching films
- do light exercise at home, or outside once a day
Coronavirus and Mental Health
Click here to download short guide for people with severe mental illnesses on practical ways to protect and support physical health during the pandemic.
Domestic Abuse
New Government Guidance on Domestic Abuse
Click here for more information.
Support for rough sleepers
RBKC are working very closely with the Mayor of London to accommodate and support all rough sleepers. The Rough Sleeping Team are on our streets day and night identifying residents sleeping rough, and are responding to referrals from the public. Mental health specialists are supporting outreach services to make sure everyone has somewhere safe to stay.
If you wish to report someone sleeping rough you can email: email hidden; JavaScript is required. Alternatively you can contact StreetLink: 0300 500 0914 or www.streetlink.org.uk
RBKC Family Information Service website updates for COVID-19
You can find useful information and resources for families and those working with children and young people here.
ACAS – Coronavirus guidance, carrying over paid holiday and short term working
Click here for more information.
Financial Aid
Apply for a Hardship Fund
Are you a family or individual experiencing difficulties due to Coronavirus? RBKC have added an additional £500,000 to their Hardship Fund and you can now apply to receive support.
Residents can apply for a hardship grant online or by calling 020 7745 6464 between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Learn more about the Hardship Fund here.
Council Tax Reduction Scheme
A Council Tax Reduction Scheme already offers 100% relief on council tax to the most in need. The Council is looking at extra help for the 3400 people of working age who currently receive partial support as part of its response to COVID-19.
You can find more information here.
