Useful Resources/Information for Children/Young People & Parents/Carers during Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Please click below to access a wealth of Useful Resources/Information during Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Sefton Council are working hard to keep all residents informed of the current situation with regard to COVID-19 and to let our communities know what is happening from a Council prospective. Please visit www.sefton.gov.uk
For changes to Council Services please visit
https://www.sefton.gov.uk/covid-19-in-sefton/
For further information regarding COVID - 19 Local Restrictions please visit
https://www.sefton.gov.uk/covid-19-in-sefton/covid-19-local-lockdown-restrictions.aspx
Don't forget- #COVID19 guidance for schools means just one adult will be able to enter the premises for drop-off & pick-up and adult visitors will need to wear face coverings.
Details at https://mysefton.co.uk/2020/09/18/new-coronavirus-measures-for-seftons-schools/
Department for Education & Gov.uk - Guidance around Education Settings during COVID-19
Please click below to access Guidance
Face coverings in Education guidance
Guidance for full opening - schools
Guidance for full opening: special schools and other specialist settings
What parents and carers need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Education Act 1996: School Registration Modification Notice June 2020. This notice is relevant to all schools. It modifies pupil registration requirements and applies from 1 June 2020 to 30 June 2020.
Supporting your children's education during coronavirus (COVID-19) -Information, guidance and support for parents and carers of children who are learning at home.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Correspondence- Supporting Disabled People Through the Coronavirus Outbreak
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for schools and other educational settings. Guidance and advice about coronavirus (COVID-19) in educational settings for staff, parents and carers, pupils and students.
Maintaining education and skills training provision: further education providers
Coronavirus outbreak - frequently asked questions. What you can and can't do. Includes guidance on exercising more than once a day for individuals with a significant health condition, including a learning disability or autism.
What parents and carers need to know about schools and education during the coronavirus outbreak
COVID-19: supporting adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults. Guidance for care staff who are supporting adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance for people receiving direct payments
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Q&A for people receiving a personal budget or personal health budget
Click here to read an open letter from Minister Ford to SEND Sector Schools Opening dated 30 May 2020
Home Schooling Resources during Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Please click below:
Click here for Help children with SEND continue their education during coronavirus (COVID-19)
Click here for Ideas for Home School Structure
https://www.net-aware.org.uk/news/five-activities-to-do-during-lockdown/
Many primary school children do not have access to educational software at home, and this will be particularly vital for learners who need additional reading and writing support when at school. Cricksoft are therefore providing free access for pupils and teachers of any school that is affected by coronavirus closures. Clicker is the complete writing solution for the primary classroom, providing every pupil, including those with EAL, with support and challenge.
Click here for information about free Clicker Software during COVID-19
The Realities of Home Schooling Webinar Recording
Click here to watch https://youtu.be/AAm04Wqqr_c
Young Minds Wellbeing Bingo
https://youngminds.org.uk/resources/school-resources/wellbeing-bingo/
Teachers and parents can access thousands of resources from Collins for young people aged 3-16, including: ebooks, songs, interactive tools, language lessons, flashcards, practice papers, an audiobook, revision resources and wellbeing activities. https://collins.co.uk/pages/support-learning-at-home
Supporting the home learning of EAL pupils in SECONDARY SCHOOLS during school closures
The following advice has been put together by The Bell Foundation to help teachers reach out to EAL pupils and their families. The complete webinar (with full explanations) can be found on their YouTube channel. The points made are not intended to create more work for teachers but are merely suggestions for anyone who is looking for more ideas around EAL learning during lockdown. The focus of these suggestions is on pupils who are at the stages of new to English/early acquisition.
Click here to access the Supported the Home Learning of Secondary EAL pupils during school closures.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize
https://www.oxfordowl.co.uk/for-home/
http://www.amazingeducationalresources.com/
https://www.superteacherworksheets.com/
https://www.elsa-support.co.uk/
https://www.helpkidzlearn.com/
https://learnathome.withyoutube.com/
https://learnathome.withyoutube.com/resources/
https://www.teachitenglish.co.uk
https://www.teachithistory.co.uk/
https://www.teachitscience.co.uk/
https://www.teachitlanguages.co.uk/
https://www.teachitmaths.co.uk/
https://www.teachitgeography.co.uk
Tips for parents supporting their children’s learning at home during lockdown which have been translated into 18 languages (Arabic, Bengali, Bulgarian, simplified Chinese, English, Gujarati, Italian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, Slovak, Somali, Spanish, Turkish and Urdu): https://www.reallearners.co.uk/teaching-resources/
Teaching resources for KS3, KS4 & KS5. Written by teachers for teachers - lesson plans, teaching ideas, worksheets, games & interactive activities. All resources on this site are completely free while schools are closed. Simply register for access.
Click here for 72 Things for Teens to Do During Coronavirus Lockdown
Useful printable visuals for home settings.
Click here for Home Schooling Visuals for use during COVID -19
Chatterpack has put together a fantastic and comprehensive list of inclusive home learning resources. Scroll down for SEND specific resources and information.
chatterpack.net
Shared by @acecentre
Widgit Online free for 30 days
Widgit is offering a free and extended licence to help families while schools, day services etc are closed.
mailchi.mp
Shared by @acecentre
Click here to Learning about online safety at home
Parents and Carers Help sheets
If you haven’t already, the first thing to do is read our Parents and Carers Help sheets - there is one for primary and one for secondary. These contain key online safety advice and links to our resources, as well as support services.
Home activity packs
Once you have read the Help sheets, click on the links below to download your first home activity packs for each age range.
Each pack contains two 15 minute activities to do with your child, using Thinkuknow resources. The next two will be released in a fortnight’s time.
For Early Years and Primary:
Click here for home activity packs for children aged 4-5
Click here for home activity packs for children aged 5-7
Click here for home activity packs for children aged 8-10
For Secondary:
Click here for home activity packs for children aged 11-13
Click here for home activity packs for children aged 14+
Credit to https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/
Sustrans four-week free activity programme to help parents/carers looking after children at home
Sustrans (the charity making it easier for people to walk and cycle) has launched their ‘Outside In’ project - a free resource to help parents who are looking after their children at home.
Sustrans Outside In provides fun ideas and inspiration for parents/carers to bring education, health and wellbeing activities into their home.
Parents/carers can access resources by registering for the free parent/carer newsletter. Over four weeks, they’ll receive weekly videos, themed activities, games and challenges designed by Sustrans experienced school officers.
Please have a look at the resources and do share with anyone who might benefit from the free resource.
To find out more and to see a sample of the resources visit www.sustrans.org.uk/campaigns/outside-in/sustrans-outside-in-information/
If you have any questions, get in touch at education@sustrans.org.uk
Internet Access during COVID-19
School aged children can get some support with accessing the internet for their schoolwork. Their school can apply for them to get an increase in mobile data from a number of providers and in some cases can apply for a 4G wireless router.
https://get-help-with-tech.education.gov.uk/about-increasing-mobile-data
Mental Health guidance during - COVID19
Everyone in #MySefton should look after their mental health during #COVID19.
The Department for Education (DfE) has updated the guidance for parents and carers on looking after the mental health and wellbeing of children or young people during the coronavirus outbreak to include translated documents in: Arabic, Bengali, Chinese CN, Chinese HK, French, Gujarati, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi and Urdu.
You can read the guidance here:
Kooth, Your Online Mental Wellbeing Community
Want someone to understand or advice for a friend?
Kooth is here for you, please visit www.kooth.com for further information.
Online and open until 10pm.
1-2-1 FUTURES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AFFECTED BY LOW SELF-ESTEEM OR LOW 
SELF CONFIDENCE
Click here for further information
Where to find Domestic Abuse support in Sefton
Many residents will be following the national advice around household isolation and social distancing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This advice is in place to limit the spread of the virus and keep as many people as safe and well as possible.
We know that there are vulnerable people in our communities who will be more concerned than others about the prospect of staying at home for a number of reasons, including those who have been the victims of domestic abuse such as violence or coercive and controlling behaviour.
While all public services are adapting to new ways of working during this pandemic, our message to anyone who is experiencing domestic abuse is clear: You are not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence - we will still be here for you, no matter what.
Merseyside Police, local authorities and providers of domestic abuse support across Merseyside will continue working together to maintain essential services and contacts for anyone affected by domestic abuse during the weeks and months to come.
Support will still be available by telephone, text message or online services.
Who to contact
If you, your child or anyone in the family are at immediate risk of harm, you should contact the police urgently, CALL 999
If you are a Sefton resident and are experiencing domestic abuse or believe someone you know is please contact:
- Sefton IDVA service on 0151 934 5142
- Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid 0151 922 8606 www.swaca.com
For more information and local services visit:
www.sefton.gov.uk/behindcloseddoors
victimcaremerseyside.org (directory of services)
Further support can also be found at these national agencies:
- Women’s Aid | womensaid.org.uk |
- National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (24 hours)
- Worst Kept Secret Helpline: 0800 028 3398
- Refuge (includes information for men) | refuge.org.uk | 0808 200 0247 (24 hours)
- The Men’s Advice Line, for male domestic abuse survivors – 0808 801 0327
- National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 999 5428
- Samaritans (24/7 service) – 116 123
More information about those services and who to contact is available via www.sefton.gov.uk/isolationabuse.
New, ‘Ask for ANI’ domestic abuse codeword scheme providing help through pharmacies
Independent pharmacies and Boots stores are now offering a codeword scheme to support victims of domestic abuse.
The scheme means those at risk or suffering from abuse can discreetly signal that they need help and access support by Asking for ANI at any of the participating stores.
In response, a trained pharmacy worker will offer to speak to the person in a private space to find out if they need to speak to the police or would like help to access support services such as a national or local domestic abuse helplines.
Boots stores across Sefton are already signed up to the codeword scheme, and it is expected that more pharmacies will join up in the coming months. Participating pharmacies will display the Ask for ANI posters in their windows so that people know to go inside for immediate help and support.
As essential retailers with specifically-trained staff, located on high streets throughout the country pharmacies can provide a safe space for victims to sound an alarm if they are isolated at home with their abuser and unable to get help in another way.
Cllr Trish Hardy, Sefton’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, said: “We fully support this important Ask for ANI initiative in Sefton’s chemists and pharmacies.
“Providing a safe space for victims of Domestic Abuse to disclose their situation and ask for help and support is vitally important, even more so during the current coronavirus lockdown restrictions.
“We would encourage anyone who is experiencing abuse or in fear of it to come forward. You are not alone.”
Useful contacts
If anyone is at immediate risk of harm from any kind of abuse, the police should be contacted urgently on 999.
Any Sefton residents experiencing domestic abuse, or who believe someone they know is, can contact Sefton Council’s Independent Domestic Violence Advisors Team on 0151 934 5142 or email IDVA.Team@sefton.gov.uk
People can also contact Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid on 0151 922 8606 or by visiting www.swaca.com
The National Domestic Violence Helpline is staffed 24 hours and can be reached at 0808 2000 247.
Anxiety Resources
Breathe in and slowly count to 2
Calm Down with take 5 Breathing
How Breathing Affects Feelings
Useful website around anxiety/mental health:
https://www.moodjuice.scot.nhs.uk/
https://cerebra.org.uk/download/anxiety-vc/
Resources and advice only to be read after reading disclaimer:
https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/Utilities/Copyright-and-Disclaimer
https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/Resources/Looking-After-Yourself/Worry-and-Rumination
https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/Resources/Looking-After-Yourself/Anxiety
https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/Resources/Looking-After-Yourself/Sleep
https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/Resources/Looking-After-Yourself/Perfectionism
https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/Resources/Looking-After-Yourself/Social-Anxiety
Sensory Resources
Anxious-and-Distracted-Strategies
Anxious-and-Hyperactive-Strategies
Anxious-and-Perfectionist-Strategies
Communication Tools
Communication Tools for Patients with COVID-19
Free bank of communication tools from the Patient-Provider Communication Forum to download and print so that hospitals and healthcare workers can support communication. Includes Arabic, Spanish and Mandarin with more languages coming soon. Also helpful tips for beside communication strategies.
patientprovidercommunication.org
Shared by @acecentre
Helpful Information for Children/Young People and Parents/Carers during Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Please click below for helpful information for Children/Young People and Parents/Carers if Children/Young People are feeling anxious about Coronavirus (Covid-19).
Credit to www.mindheart.co/descargables and www.cdc.gov/COVID-19
https://carolgraysocialstories.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Pandemics-and-the-Coronavirus.pdf
https://nursedottybooks.files.wordpress.com/2020/03/dave-the-dog-coronavirus-1-1.pdf
Please contact the Well Young Person Team via email WellYP@sefton.gov.uk for further information.
https://ausm.org/resources/covid-19-pandemic.html
https://www.autism.org.uk/services/helplines/coronavirus/resources/helpful-resources.aspx
https://www.autism.org.uk/services/helplines/coronavirus/updates.aspx
Click here for Top tips for a good nights sleep during lockdown from Twinkle House
Click here to access Online Mental Health Courses for teenagers from The Ollie Foundation
Purple Ella shares her practical, straightforward advice on coping with anxiety during the coronavirus (COVID-19) which could be very useful for adults and children, neurodiverse and neurotypical.
Click here to watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIpvdMVnfGs
Useful and practical toolkit to support children’s resilience during the coronavirus (COVID-19) developed by SISU Psychology:
Click here to access COVID- 19 and the Anti Baddies Resilience Toolkit
COVID-19 explanation and support resources
- A huge home learning resource list: https://chatterpack.net/blogs/blog/resources-list-for-home-learning
- 9 ways to stay positive during the pandemic: https://www.forbes.com/sites/williamarruda/2020/03/15/9-ways-to-stay-positive-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic/#3c5d00b05a8e
- BBC Newsround Coronavirus information for children: https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/51204456
Easy ready COVID-19 guidance
Talking Mats have produced an easy read resource (Version 3) for latest COVID-19 government guidance. Useful for helping people with learning or communication difficulties understand what they can and cannot do.
talkingmats.com
Shared by @acecentre
PrAACtical Resources: Dealing with the Covid-19 Pandemic
An interactive graphic with links to many free downloadable resources that can be used to support AAC learners. Includes visual schedules for hand washing, social narratives, videos, educational materials and more.
praacticalaac.org
Shared by @acecentre
Primary Schools: Learning from the COVID -19 Pandemic
Coronavirus Testing
We have put together a dedicated guide to the testing process, this can be found here
COVID-19 Vaccination Programme & Advice
The NHS is working hard to vaccinate those most at risk of COVID-19 first – this means care home staff and residents, people aged over 80 and frontline health and care staff - before moving onto the next priority groups.
In Sefton our GP practices are a central part of the national programme. They are working together in groups with support from the borough’s two clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) to deliver vaccinations as quickly as possible to their priority patients.
Everyone will be contacted when it’s their turn to be vaccinated, so please be patient and do not contact your GP practice or other NHS organisation to ask for your vaccination.
We understand that people are keen to know when they will receive their COVID-19 vaccinations. It will take some time to contact people in order of priority.
Sefton has more people aged 80 and over than other areas in the country and not all parts of Sefton were able to start vaccinating at the same time, so do not worry if you have not been contacted yet.
Not all local premises or surgeries can become community vaccination centres, as they need to meet the strict requirements. So, when it is your turn to be vaccinated, your appointment is unlikely to be at your GP practice.
Dedicated sites have been set up by our GP led service so people can have their vaccine safely. Importantly, we are urging people not to drop into any of these sites – vaccinations are strictly by appointment only.
This is the biggest vaccination programme the NHS has ever undertaken. It is a huge challenge and the local NHS is working hard to overcome any operational problems as they may arise. This means the exact weekly roll out of the programme is largely shaped by vaccine supply from the manufacturers.
In the meantime, we ask that you:
- Do not contact your GP or the NHS, we will contact you
- When we do contact you, please attend your booked appointments
Remember, it is really important we all continue to follow the guidance to stop the spread of the virus by following:
- hands - wash your hands frequently
- face - use a face covering or mask
- space - keep your distance from people
Even if you have received a first dose of vaccine, you should still continue to follow these rules to keep you and those around you safe and free from COVID-19.
The Different Ways People Might be Contacted
In addition to GP led services, people may also be contacted by the following:
NHS COVID-19 national booking service
Some residents are receiving letters from the national service inviting them to book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment online or by phone at a special regional vaccination centre (like St Helens Rugby Club), or a community pharmacy depending on whether these are available locally.
Importantly, anyone who is unable to go to a regional vaccination centre, or who would prefer to have their vaccination via the GP led vaccination service can still choose to do so. They do not need to take any action. They will still be automatically contacted by the local GP led service, as it works through its lists of registered patients in order of priority.
Hospital services
These services are focusing on vaccinating frontline health and care workers. However, some people may have been contacted to have the vaccine as an inpatient or at an outpatient appointment at the start of the programme.
About the Vaccine
The NHS will not offer any COVID-19 vaccinations to the public until independent experts have signed off that the vaccine is safe.
The COVID-19 vaccines that have currently been approved for use have met strict standards of safety, quality and effectiveness set out by the independent Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
This means the COVID-19 vaccines have gone through all the clinical trials and safety checks that all other licensed medicines go through. The MHRA follows international standards of safety.
Checks continue after approval to make sure there are no further side effects or long-term risks. Some people have experienced mild side effects – like when they have the flu or many other vaccines - but no significant side effects have been reported.
Vaccination is the most important thing we can do to protect ourselves and our children against ill health. They prevent up to 3 million deaths worldwide every year.
Since vaccines were introduced in the UK, diseases like smallpox, polio and tetanus that used to kill or disable millions of people are either gone or seen very rarely.
Other diseases like measles and diphtheria have been reduced by up to 99.9% since their vaccines were introduced.
However, if people stop having vaccines, it's possible for infectious diseases to quickly spread again.
You can find videos provided by Liverpool Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust about the general role and importance of all vaccines in protecting health in other languages (Arabic, Chinese, Nepali, Nigerian (Yoruba), Polish, Romanian, Pashto, Farsi/Dari) here www.southseftonccg.nhs.uk or www.southportandformbyccg.nhs.uk
How is the Vaccine Being Prioritised?
The NHS is currently in the process of offering the vaccine to people aged 80 and over, those who live or work in care home, and frontline health and social care staff.
When everyone in these groups has had the chance to get their first dose of the vaccine the programme will expand to other people that are at risk either due to their age group or medical condition. This is in line with the advice from the national Joint Committee on Vaccinations and Immunisations (JCVI).
You can see the order of priority below:
Staying Safe
We are aware some people are receiving suspicious calls and text messages offering the COVID-19 vaccination, so we are reminding residents:
- The vaccine is only available on the NHS for free to people in priority groups, and the NHS will contact you when it is your turn. Anyone offering you a paid-for vaccine is committing a crime.
- The NHS will never ask you to press a button on your keypad or send a text to confirm you want the vaccine, and will never ask for payment or for your bank details.
- At the moment we are also not making house calls to deliver or discuss the vaccine. Anyone offering this now is committing a crime.
If you receive a call you think is fraudulent, you should hang up. If you think you have been the victim of fraud or identity theft, you should report this directly to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. If you are vulnerable, and particularly if you are worried that someone has or might come to your house, you should report it to the Police online or by calling 101.
More Information on the Vaccine and the Programme
You can find latest updates about the local vaccination programme from the CCGs websites here www.southseftonccg.nhs.uk and www.southportandformbyccg.nhs.uk
You can read some frequently asked questions about the vaccine programme in Cheshire and Merseyside here https://www.cheshireandmerseysidepartnership.co.uk/covid-19-vaccination-faqs/
You can find out more about the national vaccination programme here www.nhs.uk/covidvaccine
National Lockdown
What do the Restrictions Mean?
Since Tuesday 5 January 2021, the message from the Government has been that people in England must 'stay at home' except for essential purposes.
The Government's guidance says you must not leave or be outside of your home except where necessary. Everyone should follow this guidance - it is the law.
You can only leave the home to:
- shop for basic necessities, for you or a vulnerable person
- go to work, or provide voluntary or charitable services, if you cannot reasonably do so from home
- exercise with your household (or support bubble) or one other person, this should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area;
- meet your support bubble or childcare bubble where necessary, but only if you are legally permitted to form one
- seek medical assistance or avoid injury, illness or risk of harm (including domestic abuse)
- attend education or childcare - for those eligible
If you do leave home for a permitted reason, you should always stay local - unless it is necessary to go further, for example to go to work. Stay local means stay in the village, town, or part of the city where you live.
Visit the Government's website for full details of what you can and cannot do at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home
This is a link to an easy-read guide about the national lockdown and staying at home - https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/952298/National_Lockdown_Easy_Read.pdf
You can find a breakdown of what this means for Sefton Council services at https://www.sefton.gov.uk/miscellaneous-pages/community-services-during-covid-19/
Clinically Extremely Vulnerable People
People who are clinically extremely vulnerable you are advised to only go out for medical appointments, exercise or if it is essential. We recommend that you do not attend work.
You can find Government guidance for people who are clinically extremely vulnerable at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19
Available Support
For people who do not have a support network, Sefton Council and Sefton CVS can provide support during the coronavirus crisis. They can help with things like urgent food delivery, general help with loneliness, prescription collection and help to get online. People should fill in an online form at https://forms.sefton.gov.uk/covid19referral/ or can call 0345 140 0845 between 8am-6pm Monday to Friday and 10am-4pm Saturday and Sunday.
For health and wellbeing support, visit https://www.sefton.gov.uk/miscellaneous-pages/health-and-wellbeing-directory.aspx. We have also attached an easy-read guide to this email.
People can visit https://www.gov.uk/find-coronavirus-support to find other available support.
For people who are extremely clinically vulnerable (previously shielding), NHS Volunteer Responders are continuing to offer support to those who need it, including collecting and delivering food and medicines. To arrange support, people can call the NHS Responder scheme on 0808 196 3646 (8am to 8pm, 7 days a week) or can visit https://nhsvolunteerresponders.org.uk/
People with Covid-19 symptoms have been required to self-isolate by law. To help those on low incomes who are unable to work from home, the Government is providing a £500 ‘Test and Trace Support’ payment. People can apply online at https://www.sefton.gov.uk/covid-19-in-sefton/covid-19-support/test-and-trace-support-payment-scheme.aspx.
People in short term crisis may be eligible for Sefton's Emergency Limited Assistance Scheme (ELAS). Information can be found at https://www.sefton.gov.uk/advice-benefits/emergency-limited-assistance-scheme.aspx
What Should You Do If You Think You Have COVID-19?
If you have any coronavirus symptoms:
- a high temperature
- a new, continuous cough
- a loss of, or change to, your sense of smell or taste
Get a test and stay at home.
If you need medical advice about your coronavirus symptoms visit www.111.nhs.uk/covid-19
COVID-19 Testing in Sefton
If you DO have coronavirus symptoms:
You can book a test by calling 119 or visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus
You should also get a test if you have been asked to get tested by
- NHS Test and Trace
- Sefton Council
If you DO NOT have coronavirus symptoms:
Because the Government’s latest regulations say that people in England must ‘stay at home’ except for essential purposes, only key workers and those with caring commitments during the lockdown should now go for a SMART test.
This includes people who:
- Work in supermarkets or those shops that can open
- Work in in schools or caring environments where on-site testing is not taking place
- Are unpaid carers and volunteers
- Are in other public-facing roles
Walk-through SMART COVID-19 testing for people in those groups is now taking place 8am to 8pm, no appointment necessary, at:
- Splash World in Southport*
- Bootle Leisure Centre
- Aintree Racecourse
*Please use rear car park of Dunes/Splashworld, accessible from the Esplanade, opposite the Lifeboat Station.
Check on the live Find a Test map to see if the sites are busy and how long you might have to wait https://sefton.maps.test-and-trace.nhs.uk/findatestcenter.html
For more information about COVID-19 testing in Sefton visit www.sefton.gov.uk/testing
Healthcare Advice and Treatment for Non-COVID-19 Illnesses and Injuries
Your NHS is still here for you during the COVID-19 pandemic, so don’t delay in seeking medical help if you need it.
Many services are working differently to keep you and their staff safe – like assessing you first over the phone or by video - but they are still there for you when you need them.
- You can find a wealth of trusted advice about hundreds of health conditions, a symptom checker and details of GPs, pharmacies in your local area by visiting www.nhs.uk
- Your local pharmacy offers free, confidential and expert advice on a range of health issues. It can also help you to self-care and prepare for many common winter illnesses and offer advice on which medicines to keep in stock at home.
- Your GP practice is there for you whenever you need medical help for illnesses you cannot treat yourself. Contact by phone – do not visit your practice without calling first.
- When you need medical help or advice fast, but it is not a 999 emergency, you can contact NHS 111 online www.111.nhs.uk or by call 111 at any time day or night.
- You can now do many things online, like ordering repeat prescriptions and booking appointments. Visit your practice website for details or download the NHS App https://www.nhs.uk/apps-library/nhs-app/
- For help with mild to moderate stress, anxiety, or depression, contact Talking Matters Sefton, our ‘talking therapies’ service. Phone 0151 955 3200, ask at your GP or visit www.mhm.org.uk/talking-matters-sefton
- If you or someone you care for has a serious or life-threatening emergency – like chest pains or signs of stroke - call 999 immediately as every second counts.
Find out more about your health services at:
www.southportandformbyccg.nhs.uk/your-health-services -
if you live in Southport and Formby
www.southseftonccg.nhs.uk/your-health-services -
if you live in south Sefton
Minster Ford's open letters to Children/Young people, their Carers & People who work with them
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Family Wellbeing Centre & Carers Centres
The 3 main centres (Talbot Street, Marie Clarke & Netherton) will remain open for supervised contacts and for therapeutic interventions which will continue to be delivered in a covid safe way. All others will close.
Carers Advice During Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Please click below for further information:
The latest advice for unpaid carers can be found here
For further information please visit https://www.sefton-carers.org.uk/index.php/latest-news/service-restrictions-re-covid-19
Changes to the law on education, health and care needs assessments and plans due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Guidance on temporary changes to special educational needs and disability legislation during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Last updated 26.8.20
This publication was withdrawn on 28 September 2020
You should follow the guidance in the special educational needs and disability (SEND) code of practice: 0 to 25 years.
‘Misc’ Useful Resources during Coronavirus (COVID-19)
- A huge summary of working from home resources: https://www.notion.so/Digital-Working-COVID-19-c39e55d0f6024e7f85560ea7b2632997
- Sensory Stuck at Home – Facebook group to offer advice to help children stay regulated while indoors: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sensorystuckathome/
- A simple social story explaining the coronavirus: https://carolgraysocialstories.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Pandemics-and-the-Coronavirus.pdf
Contact, FREE workshops and 1:1 support for families with disabled children
As many of you are aware, in light of the CV-19 pandemic, Contact have been adapting our support offer for families. We’ve adapted our workshops to online options so that families can continue to connect with each other and gain useful information and advice at the same time. We’ve also set up new, “Listening Ear” 1-1 confidential phone appointments with our family support advisers for parents who would like to talk to someone for reassurance and practical and emotional support at this time.
These are all FREE for families and we are listing the Workshop dates and “Listening Ear” appointments on our website so if you know a family who may benefit from either of these options please do tell them where to book on. It would also be really helpful if you can share this information and the links to our website with any colleagues, friends or networks that can help us tell families about the support that we have for them. The more families we can reach and support the better!
Workshops
https://www.contact.org.uk/about-us/family-workshops/
Listening Ear
https://www.contact.org.uk/news-and-blogs/introducing-our-new-1-1-listening-ear-service-(1)/
COVID -19 Information Pages
Information and Advice Webinars produced by Sefton's Educational Psychology Team
Please click below:
Children in #MySefton should have fun and stay in contact with friends online, but they should stay safe
Children & Young People in #MySefton should have fun and stay in contact with friends online, but they should also stay safe!
Online Safety Advice for Parents/Carers
During the current Coronavirus (Covid 19) situation many parents are working from home including home learning with their Children & Young People.
Many Children & Young People will increase their online activity time during this period due to being at home more, so it is important that families incorporate time to learn about how to keep safe when going online.
It is highly likely that online offending will increase during this time, so it is important that Children and Young People know how to learn, socialise and play online in a safe way.
Below are some top tips on how to help keep your Child & Young Person safe when going online.
• Use parental controls- Adding parental controls will allow you to monitor and limit what your child sees and does online. Visit www.internetmatters.org/parental-controls/ to access step by step guides on how to set up parental controls.
• Start a conversation about online safety- Show interest and understand what your child likes to do online and who they like to speak too. To learn more about the most popular apps and games that kids are using visit www.net-aware.org.uk
• Set time limits- During this period it is important that your child isn’t spending too much time in front of a screen, plan activities that don’t include using an electronic device.
• Set device-free zones- Only allow your child to use their device where you can monitor them, don’t allow them to take their devices to their bedroom.
• Report- Make you and your child aware of where to go to report online crime.
Below is a list of resources you can use to help educate your child about how to stay safe online and be a good digital citizen.
• CEOP- Download home activity packs and use the resources to help you learn about online safety at home with your child. https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents/Support-
tools/home-activity-worksheets/
• Childnet- Online activities you can do from home, there are a number of resources aimed at different age groups. Broken up into age appropriate categories explore different online issues such as fake news, bullying, strangers online and more.
https://www.childnet.com/resources/online-safety-activities-you-can-do-from-home
• Be Internet Legends- Google have launched a resource containing online safety activities for the whole family. The programme is designed to teach children the skills they need to stay safe and have a positive time online. The programme is split in to 4 categories: Think Before You Share,
Check it’s For Real, Protect your stuff and Respect Each Other.
https://beinternetlegends.withgoogle.com/en_uk/parents
Sefton Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) Help during Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Sefton Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) partnership has been adapting in the face of Coronavirus.
To ensure children, young people and families can get the support they need they have issued new guidance on the support available and how to access it.
The guidance covers information on:
- Crisis Support, Alder Hey CAMHS;
- the Alder Hey Eating Disorders Service for Young People;
- the School Nurse Service - Emotional Health and Wellbeing support;
- Parenting 2000;
- the Venus Star Centre;
- Kooth;
- Sefton Council for Voluntary Service (CVS).
Sefton CAMHS COVID - 19 Guidance
Please click here to read Sefton CAMHS COVID-19 Support Guidance May 2020
Please click here to ready Sefton CAMHS COVID-19 Recovery Support Guidance August 2020
Please click here to read a Back to School Supporting Your Child Leaflet.
Alder Hey CAMHS offers specialist services to support children and young people in Liverpool and Sefton, up to the age of 18, who are experiencing mental health difficulties. We also provide support to their families or carers.
Accessible Information for COVID-19
It is important that every member of our community feels they have access to information and advice on coronavirus (COVID-19).
Using the Website
Users with accessibility needs can use the Recite Me software to customise the website to meet their needs
You can use Recite Me to:
- Read website pages out loud – in different voices and languages
- Increase and decrease the size of the text
- Change the type-style – including into a Dyslexic-friendly font
- Change the screen colours and contrast
- Use an on-screen magnifying glass
- Add a ruler to help keep your place on the page
- View pages in a text-only mode
- Download audio files of page contents.
To use the service, visitors to the website just need to click on Listen and Translate at the top of every page.
You will then see a toolbar of functions that will help make the pages more accessible for them in multiple ways. There is also a user guide to tell you more and an option to switch the service on and off.
For further information please click here to visit the Sefton Council website page.
People with a Learning Disability
Resources
Mencap offer help and advice if you have a learning disability or care for someone who does. They also offer a dedicated helpline and an online community.
People First Merseyside is a self advocacy organisation for people with learning disabilities.
The Challenging Behaviour Foundation have resources and support for families. Supporting children and families with severe learning disabilities is challenging, it is harder during a pandemic. The CBF have produced this easy to follow advice and guidance for families and carers supporting anyone with a learning disability.
People With Autism
Resources
National Autistic Society is a charity which amongst its many functions advises around Autism Spectrum conditions. You can find Sefton specific services through the National Autistic Society and advice on coronavirus.
Autistica offer tips and advice on how to cope during the Coronavirus lockdown.
Hearing Impairment
The Deaf Health Charity provide daily updates in BSL
Merseyside Society for Deaf People offer support during the Coronavirus situation
Visual Impairments
The COVID-19 pandemic may be causing you many additional challenges but there is support available.
It is vital that if you are concerned about attending eye clinic appointments, you can still access help. Hospitals have rearranged their clinics to reduce the risk and minimise contact with other patients and staff. You can always call the hospital to seek advice. If you have a sudden change in your vision or new symptoms, contact your optician or eye doctor immediately. It is important you seek help, please don’t ignore symptoms.
Additionally, charities are offering excellent support during COVID-19.
RNIB have a helpline (0303 123 9999) open on weekdays (from 8am-8pm) and on Saturdays (from 9am-5pm).
In addition to help and advice on living with sight loss, advisers can connect you to local support, and assist you in signing up to telephone and online groups that may offer a source of comfort in these times. Through the same number, you can also access pre-recorded information on the Coronavirus and the Government’s response.
Guide Dogs are providing answers and information for people with sight loss and their families during the Coronavirus outbreak. They can help you identify ways to continue living actively, independently and well, refer you to their other services or help you access services by other providers. Please call 0800 781 1444 between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.
Guide Dogs have also changed the way it provides services in response to social distancing. For example, Guide Dogs staff can now arrange to contact you regularly by phone to provide individual support through the social isolation period.
Galloways in Southport will operate during the Coronavirus situation, for full information in audible format, click here.
The RNIB have produced a letter addressed to all those people with a visual impairment containing important information during COVID-19.
Deaf Blind
Deaf Blind offer support and accessible information for those who need it. For more info, click here.
Guide Dogs also provide support for DeafBlind customers. Those who use BSL should contact Guide Dogs via the website and click on the SignVideo logo on the right hand side, or through a SignVideo app. This connects you to a SignVideo interpreter who will then connect to the information line.
Languages
It is important that every member of our community feels they have access to information and advice on coronavirus (COVID-19).
In the first instance, users with alternative language needs can use the Recite Me software to customise the website to meet their needs.
Additionally, if English is not your first language and you would prefer information in your native language, we have a dedicated Coronavirus (COVID-19) Multi Language page here.
The NHS have produced a Migrant Health Guide to help with any queries ranging from eligibility for testing to access to medical care. All migrants should be aware that no immigration checks will be enforced during testing or treatment for COVID-19 and anyone with symptoms is urged to seek medical help.
Doctors of the World have translated the latest advice into 49 languages and is available in written and video formats.
Guidance
The document below has information for the Gypsy/Traveller community on keeping safe during COVID19 and useful contacts and support
Resources
For general support, visit the Irish Community Care website
For support in Sefton, email Debbie.Meadows@sefton.gov.uk in the Housing Team
Coronavirus Support (Multiple Languages)
The COVID-19 situation is being led nationally, and Sefton Council are working closely with Public Health England (PHE) and NHS partners, and are following national guidance issued by the Department of Health and Social Care and PHE.
Below is a comprehensive list of health and care advice for residents in a number of different languages.
(pdf 278KB)Doctors of the World are really pleased to be able to share with you Coronavirus (COVID-19) video advice for patients in 10 languages, with more to added soon.
The guidance is based on the government’s updated advice and health information. We really hope it will help to ensure this important guidance reaches migrant and asylum-seeking communities in the UK.
Click here to access the Doctors of the World Website for further information.
Free bank of communication tools from the Patient-Provider Communication Forum to download and print so that hospitals and healthcare workers can support communication. Includes Arabic, Spanish and Mandarin with more languages coming soon. Also helpful tips for beside communication strategies.
patientprovidercommunication.org
Shared by @acecentre
Multi-million-pound Government settlement for the Family Fund to help low-income families with seriously ill or disabled children
£37 million to support children with complex needs
The multi-million-pound settlement will help low-income families with seriously ill or disabled children with the cost of equipment, goods or services.
The multi-million-pound settlement for Family Fund, detailed today by Children and Families Minister Vicky Ford, will help low-income families with seriously ill or disabled children with the cost of equipment, goods or services - from washing machines and refrigerators to sensory and educational equipment that they might not otherwise be able to afford. The grants are typically worth £400 to £500 per family, but vary depending on need.
Click here to read the Government announcement
Family Fund is the UK's largest charity providing grants for families on low incomes raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people. Last year, we provided 88,407 grants and services worth over £33 million to families across the UK. We believe that all families raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people should have the same choices, quality of life, opportunities and aspirations as other families. Beginning with those on low incomes, and considering all conditions against our own eligibility criteria (based on the social model of disability),we aim to make a difference to outcomes for disabled or seriously ill children and young people and the lives of the families raising them across the UK. We support this aim by providing grants for essential items such as kitchen appliances, sensory toys, family breaks, bedding, tablets/computers, furniture and clothing. It can be a struggle financially, emotionally and physically for families raising a disabled or seriously ill child, and these grants help break down many of the barriers families face, improving their quality of life and easing the additional daily pressures. We also provide a range of programmes and services, as well as information and advice to families that apply to us, in order to help them access more of the support that may be of help to them in raising their child or young person.
Find out more at www.familyfund.org.uk, call us on 01904 550055, email us at info@familyfund.org.uk or join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
Pupil Experiences of COVID-19 Lockdown Pupil Survey Outcomes
Click here to view the Pupil Experiences of COVID-19 Lockdown Pupil Survey Outcomes.