Self-isolation inspiration for Cheshire West and Chester residents

Support and inspiration are just a click away for people who are self-isolating at home because of COVID-19.

Cheshire West and Chester Council has put together an online resource pack for people who need to stay at home for 10 days.

This includes information about how to get financial help to tide you over the self-isolation period, how you can get essential shopping and even tips on how to cope with boredom.

Cllr Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “Self-isolation is one of the most important things you can do to stop the spread of this terrible virus and help protect others.

“It is vital to stay at home for a full 10 days as soon as you develop symptoms, test positive or are told to by a contact tracer.

“We know this is a tough ask, especially if you need to work or look after someone, but help is available to make sure you can play your part by self-isolating for 10 days, which is a legal requirement.

“And you don’t have to give in to cabin fever – if you feel well and have outside space you can use it to get some fresh air and a little exercise, and there are plenty of activities you can do indoors too, from reading that novel or watching that box set to trying your hand at some new recipes.”

If you develop a new continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste then you must self-isolate immediately and book at test at: nhs.uk/coronavirus or by ringing: 119.

If you have any of a range of other symptoms, including mild cold-like symptoms, aches and pains, sore throat, diarrhoea, conjunctivitis, headache, loss of taste or smell, a rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes, the Council advice is to book a test as a precaution at: nhs.uk/coronavirus or by ringing: 119. You must self-isolate if your result is positive.

If you test positive after taking a test for people without symptoms you must self-isolate.

You should also self-isolate if anyone in your household has one of the three main symptoms of COVID-19 or has tested positive or if you are instructed to by a contact tracer.

Self-isolation means not leaving your home for 10 days.

For the self-isolation pack, which includes more information on who should self-isolate, how to self-isolate and what is available to help you through, visit: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/selfisolationsupport.

This link will also be shared with anyone contacted through the Cheshire West and Chester Local Contact Tracing Partnership.

The Council will be sharing regular tips on social media to inspire self-isolators. Residents are invited to share their ideas and experience, either by posting on social media and tagging @Go_CheshireWest and using the hashtag #InspiringCW, or by visiting: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/inspire-cheshirewest and adding your ideas in the how are you making the most of staying at home section.

If you need support and do not have online access, call the Council’s helpline on: 0300 123 7031.