Key national information sources
Stay up-to-date with the latest information on Covid-19.
NHS information for people with genetic, rare and undiagnosed conditions that may be at higher than average risk from Covid-19 is here. Please be aware that this includes people affected by a broader range of conditions than those that reduce the effectiveness of our immune system. If you do not know whether you are at higher than average risk from Covid-19, then you need to consult our condition specific guidance, your GP, or your clinical specialist.
Anyone with symptoms can now get a coronavirus test, whatever their age. The full guidance can be found here.
There is guidance here on if you have been in contact with someone who has a confirmed Covid-19 case but you do not live with that person.
Support
NHS Volunteer Responders in England can help with shopping, a prescription collection or a friendly chat. People needing support can self-refer if they think they meet the qualifying criteria. Carers can make a referral for someone they care and for themselves, if this support helps them continue in their caring role. To find out more about the service click here. To self-refer telephone: 0808 196 3646.
For support to manage your mental health during this pandemic, you can visit the Every Mind Matters website.
Shielding and Vulnerable People
Clinically extremely vulnerable people are advised to follow the same guidance as everyone else. Precautions are included in the guidance for the clinically extremely vulnerable.
Covid-19 Vaccination
Covid-19 booster vaccine
Booster vaccine doses will be available on the NHS for people most at risk from Covid-19 who have had a 2nd dose of a vaccine at least six months ago.
This includes:
- People aged 16 and over with a health condition that puts them at high risk of getting seriously ill from Covid-19
- People aged 16 and over who are a main carer for someone at high risk from Covid-19
- people aged 16 and over who live with someone who is more likely to get infections
- People who are pregnant and in one of the eligible groups can also get a booster dose.
Third Covid-19 vaccination dose
The JCVI has advised that people aged 12 and over who were severely immunosuppressed at the time of their first or second dose should be offered a third vaccine dose. This is separate from any booster programme.
Young adults and children
Young adults aged 16 years and over with specific clinical vulnerabilities are eligible for vaccination.
All children aged 12-15 are now being offered the Covid-19 vaccine.
The JCVI recommends that children and young people aged 12 to 17 who live with an immunosuppressed person should be offered the vaccine. It also recommends that people turning 18 in the next three months should be eligible for the Covid-19 vaccine.
You can find more information about the Covid-19 vaccination programme for children and young people here.
Adults over 18
All adults over 18 are eligible for the Covid-19 vaccination. You can book an appointment now. The wait between the two doses is now eight weeks rather than 12. Book or manage your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Working Safely During Coronavirus
The Government is no longer instructing people to work from home, however, employers still have a legal duty to manage risks to those affected by their business. You can find more information here.
Access to Work provides support for the disability-related extra costs of working at home that are beyond standard reasonable adjustments an employer must provide.
Carers and Parents
Mencap have pulled together resources and advice for carers who may be affected by Covid-19. Carers UK also have a useful guide.
The charity Family Lives currently provides emotional support, information, advice and guidance on any aspect of parenting and family life across England and Wales.
Information for Charities
The NCVO has information for charities that may have concerns surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic. This includes information on funding, supporting workers and other resources.