Community Wellbeing Hub to continue to provide support once shielding ends

Date published: 2021-03-30 | Category: Covid-19 support

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Residents who are clinically extremely vulnerable are being reassured they will still be able to receive support from Bath and North East Somerset’s Community Wellbeing Hub once shielding ends.

With nine out of ten clinically vulnerable people now having received their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine and the continued fall of coronavirus rates across the country, the Government says those who have been shielding can begin to follow national restrictions, alongside the rest of the population, from Thursday 1 April.

Those who have been shielding are advised to take extra precautions to keep themselves safe from the virus including maintaining strict social distancing and minimising social contact, such as working from home when possible.

The updated guidance will prove a relief for many, some of whom have been shielding for a year, but the Community Wellbeing Hub recognises that others may feel worried about the change. It is therefore writing to those currently on the shielding list in Bath and North East Somerset, advising them that the support it provides will continue throughout the pandemic and beyond.

Jo Scammell, Head of Commissioning and Wellbeing Services, Virgin Care, said: “After spending so long shielding we understand that some people may be anxious about the changes. We want to reassure them that we are still here to provide support if they need us.”

The hub, which is a collaboration between Bath & North East Somerset Council, Virgin Care, 3SG and other third sector organisations, was formed last March to provide a range of support to residents during the coronavirus pandemic. Over the past year it’s received more than 12,000 calls and supported hundreds of people. Its services include mental health support; income, housing and benefits advice; help returning home from hospital; and help with food and medicines collection. It can also help with stopping smoking, getting active or losing weight.  

Dine Romero, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council said: “The strong working partnership at the Community Wellbeing Hub has made a real difference to people’s lives and is helping to make neighbourhoods and communities stronger. Although government restrictions are easing, residents can be reassured the hub will continue to offer support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and its wellbeing services in the future.”

Residents across Bath and North East Somerset can contact the Hub or organisations can refer someone who is in need of help by:

• Calling: 0300 247 0050
• Emailing: CWHBanes@virgincare.co.uk
• Texting: 07870 868368

The Community Wellbeing Hub is open from Monday to Friday 9am until 5pm but will be closed over the Easter period on Good Friday 2 April and Bank Holiday Monday 5 April.

People who have been shielding are being invited to join an online webinar on Thursday 29 April at 12.30pm to share experiences and discuss what’s next after shielding. To register to take part visit: https://bathnes.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_A1zcVOm8SpCzP8zB4b9IyA

For all updates on council services go to www.bathnes.gov.uk/coronavirus

Published and promoted by Stuart Hodges on behalf of Ian Shires and Dan Barker all at 33 Stretton Road, Willenhall WV12 5EJ

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