Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to the public
2. Viewings
More detail on progressing the individual elements of the home buying and
selling or rental process and how this applies to different groups is set out
in the next section.
People should use virtual viewings before visiting properties in person where
possible, in order to minimise public health risks. If any member of either
the household being viewed, or the household undertaking a viewing is showing
symptoms of coronavirus or is self-isolating, then a physical viewing should
be delayed. All viewings should take place by appointment and only involve
members of a single household.

We encourage people to do their property searching online wherever possible. Initial viewings should be done virtually wherever this is possible and physical viewings should only be conducted where buyers are seriously considering making an offer on a property.
To support this, agents may ask home occupiers to conduct virtual viewings. This will help reduce the number of properties people need to visit before finding their future home.
Viewings should be conducted by appointment only and no open house viewings should take place.
If your property is being viewed, you should open all the internal doors prior to the viewing, and allow access to handwashing facilities and ideally separate towels/paper towels.
As most people choose to do, we encourage that you vacate your property whilst viewings are taking place in order to minimise your contact with those not in your household.
When viewing a property, all parties should wash their hands and avoid touching surfaces where possible. Agents will ask you to restrict the number of people who accompany you on a viewing so that social distancing can be practised, and only those in your immediate household should be there.
We expect agents to accompany clients on a viewing but follow social distancing rules wherever possible. Where viewings are unaccompanied, agents should make sure viewers and homeowners understand how they should conduct themselves.
Once the viewing has taken place, the homeowner should ensure surfaces, such as door handles, are cleaned with standard household cleaning products and towels disposed of safely or washed as appropriate.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to industry
New Build Home Warranty Assessments and claims against the warranty
Inspectors can carry out warranty assessments on new build properties
including self and custom build. Inspectors should follow public health
guidance on social
distancing and guidance for
working in other people’s homes. Companies should ensure employees
understand how to operate safely and communicate this to customers.

New build warranty providers can continue to provide a normal service to homebuilders and consumers, including site visits and inspections.
No work should be carried out by a person who has coronavirus symptoms, however mild or anyone who has been asked to self-isolate.
Inspectors should contact the household in advance to check that no member of the household is showing symptoms of coronavirus or self-isolating. If they are, works should be delayed.
Where residents are making a claim against their new build warranty, in the first instance they should speak with the warranty provider. Where possible the warranty providers should investigate claims remotely using video or photo evidence. If this is not possible and an inspector needs to visit an occupied property, this should be done by appointment and measures put in place to ensure physical contact is minimised, for example with residents staying in another room during the visit.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to the public
What does this mean for my property move or purchase which is scheduled whilst measures to fight coronavirus apply?
More detail on progressing the individual elements of the home buying and
selling or rental process and how this applies to different groups is set out
in the next section.
People are free to move home, however the process of finding and moving into a
new home is likely to be different, as those involved in the process will need
to adapt practices and procedures to ensure that the risk of spread of
coronavirus is reduced as far as possible. It is vital that everyone stays
alert and safe.

Initial viewings should be done virtually wherever this is possible and property agents should help you to do this.
All physical viewings should be limited to members of the same household and open house viewings should not take place.
When physically viewing properties, where possible, you should avoid touching surfaces, wash your hands regularly, and bring your own hand sanitiser. The number of people on a viewing should be minimised to those from your household that absolutely have to be there. If you need to be accompanied by small children, you should try to keep them from touching surfaces and ensure they wash their hands regularly.
If people are being shown around your current home, you should open all internal doors and ensure surfaces, such as door handles, are cleaned after each viewing with standard household cleaning products.
As most people choose to, we recommend that you vacate your property whilst viewings are taking place in order to minimise your contact with those not in your household.
Anyone involved in any aspect of the home moving process should practice social distancing in line with public health advice.
When moving between properties, you and those in your household should try to do as much of the packing yourself as you can. Where this is not possible, you should speak to removal firms in advance. There is further advice about this below.
If you are particularly worried about the risk of infection, then speak to the professionals involved, your landlord, estate agent or removers as they may be able to put in place extra measures.

Everyone involved in the moving process must follow social
distancing to minimise the
spread of the virus.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to industry
Conveyancers
Conveyancers can open for business and can take on new instructions. They
should make sure their clients are aware of the differences in completing
transactions during this period.

Conveyancers should aim to conduct as much of their business remotely as possible.
Where client meetings need to take place, measures should be put in place to ensure appropriate social distancing and hygiene measures.
Conveyancers should do what they can to promote flexibility making provisions for the risks presented by coronavirus, for example when advising their clients who are ready to move not to exchange contracts on an occupied property unless they have made explicit provision for the risks presented by the virus.
Conveyancers should prioritise support for anyone who is clinically vulnerable or shielding, or with symptoms of coronavirus or self-isolating to agree a new date to move.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to the public
People self-isolating or having tested positive for coronavirus
More detail on progressing the individual elements of the home buying and
selling or rental process and how this applies to different groups is set out
in the next section.
Moving home is not appropriate whilst you pose a direct risk of transmitting
coronavirus. People who have coronavirus or are self-isolating with their
family member should not leave their home to either move home, or undertake
property viewings.
If you are contractually committed to move home, you should delay your move
until all members of your household have come to the end of their self-
isolation period. All parties involved in home buying and selling should
prioritise agreeing amicable arrangements to change move dates for
individuals, or where someone in a chain or their family member is self-
isolating or has tested positive for coronavirus.
Should a move be essential for people in this category, for instance due to an
urgent health and safety risk, please contact Public Health England/local
public health teams for advice.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Social landlords
Allocation by local housing authorities is governed by Part 6 of the Housing
Act 1996 and
authorities must have regard to statutory guidance. Registered providers of
social housing should refer to the relevant regulatory
standards
set out by the Regulator of Social Housing.
Landlords will need to consider how to carry out their activities in line with
the government’s advice on social distancing in the
workplace). Practices should also be altered in line with this wider
guidance, including:

property inspections for vacating tenants
collecting returned keys
conducting viewings
conducting tenancy sign-ups
preparing homes to be re-let

Some applicants and tenants may be anxious about moving at this time. It will
be important to ensure that they are not put under undue pressure to move, if
they are not ready or able to do so.
It will also be important to discuss with applicants and tenants their state
of health, level of vulnerability and their arrangements for moving (including
any assistance required) before proceeding with the move.
Landlords should avoid moving tenants who are showing symptoms of coronavirus
or self-isolating. There may be exceptions to this (e.g. safety reasons) and
in these scenarios landlords should speak to the local Public Health team
about appropriate infection control measures before taking any action.
Landlords should also avoid moving residents who are shielding because they
have been notified they are in the clinically extremely vulnerable group. If a
home move is required, the landlord should speak to the local Public Health
team for advice on appropriate measures to protect the resident.
Tenants seeking mutual exchange should be directed to the Advice to the public
section above.
Right to Buy
The Right to Buy is governed by Part 5 of the Housing Act
1985 which sets out the
right of eligible social tenants to purchase the home they currently rent and
occupy; and the timescales for doing this.
Tenants have the right to purchase their home within the provisions of the
legislation. The government recognises that the measures put in place to
combat coronavirus are likely to make it difficult for councils to process
Right to Buy applications within the statutory timescales.
Landlords will want to consider how best they can manage the application
process to ensure tenants are able to take up their Right to Buy within a
reasonable timescale, while acting in accordance with government guidelines on
social distancing.
This could include options around:

valuations of properties
fraud prevention measures
the issuing of documentation
using the discretion provided to them within the legislation


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to the public
Vulnerable people or those shielding
More detail on progressing the individual elements of the home buying and
selling or rental process and how this applies to different groups is set out
in the next section.
We recognise people who are shielding or otherwise vulnerable may also have
pressing needs to move home; however, this should be balanced with the
increased risks presented by coronavirus.
In line with government’s advice, those who are shielding or otherwise
clinically vulnerable should ensure they are aware of the medical
advice, including on
staying at home and avoiding unnecessary contacts over this period, if at all
possible. All parties involved in home buying and selling should prioritise
agreeing amicable arrangements to change move dates for individuals in this
group, or where someone in a chain is in this group.
Clinically vulnerable and shielded individuals (ie those who have received a
letter advising they are in the clinically extremely vulnerable group) will
need to carefully consider their personal situation and the circumstances of
their own move and may wish to seek medical advice before deciding whether to
commit to or go ahead with a move. Some moves are likely to be lower risk -
for instance if the home is empty, all travel can take place in their own
transport and they can avoid contact with others.
We would encourage everyone in these categories who does intend to move, to
make clear their status to all of the professionals involved in the process.
They may be able to implement additional precautionary measures to further
protect you.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to the public
5. Agreeing to move
More detail on progressing the individual elements of the home buying and
selling or rental process and how this applies to different groups is set out
in the next section.
Once you have agreed to move home by exchanging contracts or signing a tenancy
agreement, you have entered into a legal agreement to move. We encourage all
parties to be as flexible as possible over this period and be prepared to
delay moves if needed, for example if someone becomes ill with coronavirus
during the moving process or has to self-isolate. You should not expect to
move into any home where people are ill or self-isolating.

Your legal adviser should be able to help you to ensure that any contract you enter into has sufficient flexibility to allow the purchase to be delayed in the event that an individual in one of the parties contracts coronavirus or has to self-isolate.
We encourage you to be as flexible as possible if you are asked to delay your move, and in turn, you can speak to your legal advisor about this.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to the public
3. Making offers or reservations
More detail on progressing the individual elements of the home buying and
selling or rental process and how this applies to different groups is set out
in the next section.
You are free to make or accept an offer or reserve a property as normal.

There is a greater risk that parties may need to delay their move because someone is showing symptoms of coronavirus or self-isolating. Where needed your legal adviser should advise you and help make sure that any contracts or agreements are as flexible as possible to accommodate this risk.
Prospective purchasers may wish to visit a property again once they have agreed a sale, for example to measure up. Where this has been agreed to, the above advice on prioritising virtual visits, hygiene measures, maintaining social distancing at all times and mitigating contact where possible should be followed.
Purchasers may also want to send in tradespeople to carry out inspections. Where possible these should be scheduled with one person visiting the property at any time. No tradespeople should enter a property where a member of the household is showing symptoms of coronavirus or self-isolating. Where a tradesperson is visiting the property, the occupier should maintain social distancing, wash their hands regularly and minimise contact as far as possible, for example by staying in another room. These visits should be carried out in line with government safer working guidance.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to the public
1. Preparing to buy, sell or move home
More detail on progressing the individual elements of the home buying and
selling or rental process and how this applies to different groups is set out
in the next section.
You can put your home on the market and start to look for properties you want
to move into. If any member of the household being viewed is showing symptoms
or is self-isolating then estate agents should not physically visit the
property.

You can begin to market your home and estate agents are able to visit in order to take photos/videos of the property.
To help prevent the spread of infection, we encourage people to do the majority of their property searching online; for example only physically viewing those properties which you believe you are most likely to want to move into.
As usual, you can also start to bring together the documentation necessary to sell your property (more information on these documents is available in the government’s guidance on how to sell homes).
If you wish to buy a new build property you should make contact with the developer in the usual way. You should be able to view the show home or visit the particular plot you are interested in purchasing, although there will be appointment systems in place.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to industry
All businesses should follow the government’s latest guidance for employers
and businesses on coronavirus and safer working
guidance.
As well as government guidance, we encourage all professionals to speak to
their representative bodies and familiarise themselves with the guidance that
these bodies have prepared for their specific sectors.
It is important that all businesses work together to ensure we stay alert and
safe to minimise the
spread of infection and we expect all sectors to consider how they can operate
in a way which minimises the need for face to face contact.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to the public
6. Moving your belongings
More detail on progressing the individual elements of the home buying and
selling or rental process and how this applies to different groups is set out
in the next section.
Removal firms are able to operate, although they may need to adjust usual
procedures in order to ensure moves happen as safely as possible.

We encourage you to contact removal firms as early as possible in advance of your move.
You and your household should also try and do as much of the packing yourself as possible. However, where you are using a removals firm, you may wish to talk to them in advance to discuss packing and in particular, the arrangements for packing fragile items.
We ask that, where possible, you clean your belongings, with standard domestic cleaning products before they are handled by others, including removal firms.
Whilst the removers are in your home, you should ensure any internal doors are open and seek to minimise your contact with the crew, maintaining a distance of at least 2 metres where possible.
All parties should wash their hands and avoid touching surfaces where possible to reduce the risk of transmitting the coronavirus.
You should not provide refreshments but you should ensure they have access to hand washing facilities, using separate towels or paper towels if possible, which should be washed or disposed of safely afterwards.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to industry
Estate agents
Estate agents can open for business but should consider how and when to reopen
their premises given government guidance on safer
working. Estate agents should inform customers and their own staff about
their procedures, so that they are safe throughout the sales process.

Agents should ask whether any party is showing symptoms or has been asked to self-isolate before going ahead with any viewing, or visits to offices.
Agents should operate using an appointment system for visits to their offices and when conducting viewings.
Agents should not carry out any open house viewings.
Agents should strongly encourage clients to view properties virtually in the first instance and then only physically inspect properties which they have a strong interest in.
Agents can accompany physical viewings and seek to maintain a minimum of 2 metres distance from others wherever possible. Where social distancing is not possible and the visit is within an enclosed space, they should consider wearing a face covering in line with government guidance.
Where they do not accompany the visit, they should make sure that both buyers and sellers clearly understand how the viewing should be conducted safely.
Agents should not drive clients to appointments.
All parties viewing a property should wash their hands with soap and water (or hand sanitiser if not available) immediately after entering the properties, with internal doors opened and surfaces having been wiped down before they enter. Separate towels or paper towels should be used if possible and washed or disposed of safely after use.
Agents should do what they can to promote flexibility when arranging move dates, for example advising clients to ensure contracts have explicit terms to manage the timing risks presented by coronavirus.
Agents should work with their clients and other agents to broker a new date to move where sales are due to complete and one of the parties falls ill with coronavirus or has to self-isolate.
Agents should ensure that any keys are appropriately cleaned before handover.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to industry
Removals firms
Removal firms are able to operate and should follow the latest government
guidance on safer working. Where moves are carried out, social
distancing should be
followed. Companies should ensure employees understand how to operate safely
and communicate this to customers.

Removers should contact the household in advance to check that no member of the household is showing symptoms of coronavirus or self-isolating. If they are, works should be delayed.
They should also encourage households to ensure all internal doors are open and surfaces and possessions have been cleaned with household cleaning products prior to them entering the property.
No work should be carried out by a person who has coronavirus symptoms, however mild.
Removers should wash their hands on entering the property using separate towels of paper towels which need to be washed or disposed of safely after use.
Removers should seek to minimise contact with homeowners and remain 2 metres apart from householders at all times.
Removers should implement a buddy system and ensure that the same people work together when moving bulky items and furniture.
Removers should bring their own refreshments but you should ensure they have access to hand washing facilities, using separate towels or paper towels if possible, which should be washed or disposed of safely afterwards.


Guidance Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
Advice to industry
Letting agents and private landlords
Tenants’ safety should be letting agents’ and landlords’ first priority. The
government has put in place protections for tenants during the coronavirus
outbreak, including legislation to delay when landlords are able to start
proceedings to evict tenants. This means until 30 September 2020, most
landlords will not be able to start possession proceedings unless they have
given their tenants three-months’ notice.
This guidance for landlords and letting agents is to help them safely let
empty properties, or properties which tenants are voluntarily vacating. While
broader measures to protect tenants during the coronavirus outbreak remain in
place, letting agents and landlords should endeavour to avoid ending tenancies
where the tenant wants and is able to stay.
Letting agents and landlords should be aware of and follow government
guidance on coronavirus and
renting, which explains these
protections in greater detail, and make sure tenants are aware of this
guidance.

Private landlords and letting agents should not conduct viewings in properties where tenants are symptomatic or self-isolating, or where it has been determined that they are clinically extremely vulnerable and are shielding.
In other cases, where viewings can proceed, they should be conducted in line with the guidance on viewings earlier in this document.
Any visits to a property must be made in accordance with government’s guidelines on working in other people’s homes and social distancing.
If possible, necessary repairs, gas and electrical safety checks should be conducted in the period between a property being vacated and a new tenant moving in. If this is not possible and visits are needed to an occupied property, this should be done by appointment with measures put in place to ensure physical contact is minimised, for example with residents staying in another room during the visit.
Landlords should make every effort to abide by gas and electrical safety requirements, which continue to be of great importance for tenants’ safety. This may be more difficult due to restrictions associated with the coronavirus outbreak, for example where a tenant has coronavirus symptoms, is self-isolating or shielding. Under such circumstances, provided the landlord can demonstrate they have taken reasonable steps to comply, they would not be in breach. See further Health and Safety Executive guidance on how to deal with specific circumstances. Letting agents may also want to consider obtaining landlord and tenant consent for inventory clerk appointments to also occur before a tenant moves in or after a tenant moves out during vacant periods if possible.
Letting agents and landlords should take steps to ensure any properties are prepared ready for new tenants, this may include cleaning to minimise any potential spread of the virus in line with government advice.
Letting agents and landlords should consider how best to conduct tenancy check-ins for new tenancies agreed while broader measures remain in place, taking care to follow government advice on social distancing to minimise possible spread of coronavirus.
Letting agents and landlords are reminded of the temporary COVID-19 measures that adjust right to rent checks, temporarily allowing these checks to be conducted remotely. Lettings agents and landlords should consider other areas where in person payments, referencing or checks can be conducted remotely instead and take further advice if required.


Guidance Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
Ending household isolation
If living with others, then all household members who remain well may end
household-isolation after 14 days. The 14-day period starts from the day
illness began in the first person to become ill. Fourteen days is the
incubation period for coronavirus; people who remain well after 14 days are
unlikely to be infectious.
After 7 days, if the first person to become ill feels better and no longer has
a high temperature, they can return to their normal routine. If any other
family members become unwell during the 14-day household-isolation period,
they should follow the same advice - that is, after 7 days of their symptoms
starting, if they feel better and no longer have a high temperature, they can
also return to their normal routine.
A COVID-19 cough or anosmia may persist for several weeks in some people,
despite the coronavirus infection having cleared. A persistent cough or
anosmia does not mean someone must continue to self-isolate for more than 7
days
Should a household member develop coronavirus symptoms late in the 14-day
household-isolation period (for example, on day 13 or day 14) the isolation
period does not need to be extended, but the person with the new symptoms has
to stay at home for at least 7 days. The 14-day household-isolation period
will have greatly reduced the overall amount of infection the rest of the
household could pass on, and it is not necessary to restart 14 days of
isolation for the whole household. This will have provided a high level of
community protection. Further isolation of members of this household will
provide very little additional community protection.
At the end of the 14-day period, any family member who has not become unwell
can leave household isolation. See the explanatory
diagram.
All members of the household should continue to follow government guidelines
on Staying at home and away from others (social
distancing) and Social distancing for everyone in the
UK.


Guidance Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
Looking after your wellbeing while staying at home
We know that staying at home for a prolonged period can be difficult,
frustrating and lonely for some people and that you or other household members
may feel low. It can be particularly challenging if you don’t have much space
or access to a garden.
It’s important to remember to take care of your mind as well as your body and
to get support if you need it. Stay in touch with family and friends over the
phone or on social media. There are also sources of support and information
that can help, such as the Every Mind Matters
website.
Think about things you can do during your time at home. People who have not
minded staying at home for a week have kept themselves busy with activities
such as cooking, reading, online learning and watching films.
Daily physical activity is important for health and wellbeing, including
managing stress, positive feelings and sleep. You can look for ideas of
exercises you can do at home on the NHS website. If you feel well enough you can take
part in light exercise within your home. For family members who are 70 or over
and are not symptomatic, it is important to avoid contact with other family
members as much as possible (see guidance above on persons age 70 or over.
Many people find it helpful to remind themselves why what they are doing is so
important. Hopefully, none of your family will suffer more than flu-like
symptoms. But some people are badly affected by coronavirus, and particularly
the elderly and those with certain medical conditions. By staying home, you
are protecting the lives of others, as well as making sure the NHS does not
get overwhelmed.
Remember it is OK to share your concerns with others you trust and in doing so
you may end up providing support to them too. Or you can use a NHS
recommended helpline.
See more Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects
of coronavirus
(COVID-19).


Guidance Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
Will my household be tested if we think we have coronavirus symptoms?
No, testing for coronavirus is not needed if you’re staying at home and remain
well enough to stay at home.


Guidance Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
If you have a person aged 70 or over living with you
You should take the following actions:
Minimise as much as possible the time they spend in shared spaces such as
kitchens, bathrooms and sitting areas, and keep shared spaces well ventilated.
Aim to keep 2 metres (3 steps) away from the person(s) aged 70 or over and
encourage them to sleep in a different bed where possible. If they can, they
should use a separate bathroom from the rest of the household. Make sure they
use separate towels from the other people in your house, both for drying
themselves after bathing or showering and for hand-hygiene purposes.
If you do share a toilet and bathroom with a person aged 70 or over, it is
important that you clean the facilities every time you use them (for example,
wiping surfaces you have come into contact with). Another tip is to consider
drawing up a rota for bathing, with the older person using the facilities
first.
If you share a kitchen with a person aged 70 or over, avoid using it while
they are present. If they can, they should take their meals back to their room
to eat. If you have one, use a dishwasher to clean and dry the family’s used
crockery and cutlery. If this is not possible, wash them using your usual
washing up liquid and warm water and dry them thoroughly. If the person aged
70 or over is using their own crockery and cutlery, remember to use a separate
tea towel for drying these.
We understand that it will be difficult for some people to separate themselves
from others at home. You should do your very best to follow this guidance and
everyone in your household should:

wash their hands more frequently, for 20 seconds, with soap and water; and avoid touching their face
regularly clean frequently touched surfaces


Guidance Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
Advice for the children in the household
This guidance applies to children of all ages.
Keep following the Stay at home guidance for households with possible
coronavirus to the best of your ability, however, we are aware that
not all these measures will be possible.
What we have seen so far is that children with coronavirus appear to be less
severely affected. It is nevertheless important to do your best to follow this
guidance.
Children who are part of a household that is following guidance on staying at
home due to possible coronavirus should take exercise within their home.
Children who are part of a household that is following guidance on staying at
home due to possible coronavirus should not be attending school or any
childcare settings even if they are children of key workers.
Children should also be encouraged to follow good hygiene – frequent
handwashing with soap and water and avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth
with unwashed hands.


Guidance Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
What can you do to reduce the risk of becoming unwell with coronavirus (COVID-19)?
If you are aged 70 or over, or are otherwise clinically vulnerable, you should
refer to our guidance on social distancing for everyone in the
UK.
If you live with someone who is aged 70 or over, or is otherwise clinically
vulnerable, you should refer to our household
guidance and guidance on Staying at home and away from
others.
If you are clinically extremely vulnerable, you should follow the guidance on
shielding.
Members of a household, living with someone who is extremely vulnerable should
be very strict in following guidance on social
distancing.


Guidance Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
Make a plan for your household or family
Make a plan for how you can adapt your daily routine, and that of others in
your household, in case a member of your household develops symptoms of
coronavirus (COVID-19) and you are required to undertake household isolation.
Some of the ways in which you could prepare include:

talk to your neighbours and family and exchange phone numbers
consider and plan for those in your home who are aged 70 or over, or otherwise clinically vulnerable.
create a contact list with phone numbers of neighbours, schools, employer, chemist, NHS 111
set up online shopping accounts if possible


Guidance Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
If you or your family need to seek medical advice
Seek prompt medical attention if your illness or the illness in any household
members is worsening. If it’s not an emergency, contact NHS 111
online. If you have no internet access, you should call
NHS 111. For any emergency conditions, if you need to call an ambulance, dial
999 and inform the call handler or operator if you or your relative have
coronavirus symptoms as well as any emergency conditions.
All routine medical and dental appointments should usually be cancelled whilst
you and the family are staying at home. If you are concerned or have been
asked to attend in person within the period you are home isolating, discuss
this with your medical contact first (for example, your GP, local hospital or
outpatient service), using the number they have provided. If your concerns are
related to your coronavirus symptoms contact NHS 111
online. If you have no internet access, you should call
NHS 111.


Guidance Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
Symptoms
The most important symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) are recent onset of any
of the following:

a new continuous cough
a high temperature
a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia)

For most people coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness. However, if you
have any of the symptoms above you should self-isolate at home.


Guidance Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk or has symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection
Why staying at home is very important
It is very important that individuals with symptoms that may be due to
coronavirus and their household members stay at home. Staying at home will
help control the spread of the virus to friends, the wider community, and
particularly the most vulnerable.
Those with symptoms should remain at home for at least 7 days after the onset
of their symptoms as set out in the stay-at-home
guidance. This will reduce the risk of you
infecting others.
If one of you has symptoms that may be caused by coronavirus, then household
members must also stay at home and not leave the house for 14 days as set out
in the stay-at-home
guidance and the ending household isolation
section below. You should not go out even to buy food or other essentials
unless you have no other means to secure them, and any exercise should be
taken within your home. The 14-day period starts from the day when the first
person in your house became ill.
If you are having food or other essentials delivered to your house, the person
who is delivering the items should not come into your home. Staying at home
for 14 days will greatly reduce the overall amount of infection the household
could pass on to others in the community.
Staying at home may be difficult and frustrating, but there are things that
you can do to help make it easier. These include:

plan ahead and think about what you will need in order to be able to stay at home for the full 7 or 14 days
talk to your employer, friends and family to ask for their help to access the things you will need to make your stay at home a success
think about and plan how you can get access to food and other supplies such as medications that you will need during this period
ask friends or family to drop off anything you need or order supplies online, but make sure these are left outside your home for you to collect
make sure that you keep in touch with friends and family over the phone or through social media
think about things you can do during your time at home. People who have successfully completed a period of staying at home have kept themselves busy with activities such as cooking, reading, online learning and watching films
many people find it helpful to plan out the full 14 days, such as on a make-shift calendar. You may also find it helpful to plan in advance what you will do if, for example, someone in the household were to feel much worse, such as have difficulties breathing
when you are feeling better, remember that physical exercise can be good for your wellbeing. Look for online classes or courses that can help you take light exercise in your home


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Helping children and young people cope with stress
There are some key points you can consider about how to support your child or
young person, including:
Listen and acknowledge: Children and young people may respond to stress in
different ways. Signs may be emotional (for example, they may be upset,
distressed, anxious, angry or agitated), behavioural (for example, they may
become more clingy or more withdrawn, or they may wet the bed), or physical
(for example, they may experience stomach aches).
Look out for any changes in their behaviour. Children and young people may
feel less anxious if they are able to express and communicate their feelings
in a safe and supportive environment. Children and young people who
communicate differently to their peers may rely on you to interpret their
feelings. Listen to them, acknowledge their concern and give them extra love
and attention if they need it.
MindEd is a free online educational resource on
children and young people’s mental health for all adults, which can support
parents and carers through these exceptional circumstances.
Provide clear information about the situation: Children and young people
want to feel assured that their parents and carers can keep them safe. One of
the best ways to achieve this is by talking openly about what is happening and
providing honest answers to any questions they have. Explain what is being
done to keep them and their loved ones safe, including any actions they can
take to help, such as washing their hands more often than usual. Use words and
explanations that they can understand. There are resources available to help
you do this, including the Children’s Commissioner’s Children’s Guide to
Coronavirus, or the Inter-
Agency Standing Committee (IASC) have produced a storybook developed by and
for children around the world affected by coronavirus
(COVID-19).
Make sure you use reliable sources of information such as
GOV.UK or the NHS
website – there is a lot
of misleading information from other sources that can create stress for you
and your family. It will not always be possible to provide answers to all the
questions that children and young people may ask, or to address all their
concerns, so focus on listening and acknowledging their feelings to help them
feel supported.
Be aware of your own reactions: Remember that children and young people
often take their emotional cues from the important adults in their lives, so
how you respond to the situation is very important. It is important to manage
your own emotions and remain calm, listen to and acknowledge children and
young people’s concerns, speak kindly to them, and answer any questions they
have honestly. For further information on how to look after your own mental
wellbeing during the pandemic, see the guidance on how to look after your own
mental health and
wellbeing or visit Every
Mind Matters.
Connect regularly: If it is necessary for you and your children to be in
different locations to normal (for example, due to staying at home in
different locations or hospitalisation) make sure you still have regular and
frequent contact via the phone or video calls with them. Try to help your
child understand what arrangements are being made for them and why in simple
terms. Support safe ways for children and young people to maintain social
interaction with their friends, for example via phone or video calls.
Create a new routine: Life is changing for all of us for a while. Routine
gives children and young people an increased feeling of safety in the context
of uncertainty, so think about how to develop a new routine, especially if
they are not at school:

make a plan for the day or week that includes time for learning, playing and relaxing
if they have to stay home from school, ask teachers what you can do to support continued learning at home. The Department for Education have published a list of recommended online educational resources for home schooling
encourage maintaining a balance between being on and offline and discover new ideas for activities to do from home. The Children’s Commissioner guide signposts to some ideas to help fight boredom
children and young people ideally need to be active for 60 minutes a day, which can be more difficult when spending longer periods of time indoors. Plan time outside if you can do so safely or see Change4Life for ideas for indoor games and activities
don’t forget that sleep is important for mental and physical health, so try to keep to existing bedtime routines
it may be tempting to give children and young people treats such as sweets or chocolate but this is not good for their health, especially as they may not be as physically active as normal. See Change4Life for ideas for healthy treats

Limit exposure to media and talk more about what they have seen and heard:
Like adults, children and young people may become more distressed if they see
repeated coverage about the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in the media. A
complete news blackout is also rarely helpful as they are likely to find out
from other sources, such as online or through friends. Try to avoid turning
the television off or closing web pages when children or young people come
into the room. This can peak their interest to find out what is happening and
their imagination can take over. Instead, consider limiting the amount of
exposure you and your family have to media coverage.
Young people will also hear things from friends and get information from
social media. Talk to them about what is happening and ask them what they have
heard. Try to answer their questions honestly and reassure them appropriately.


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
How children and young people of different ages may react
All children and young people are different, but there are some common ways in
which different age groups may react to a situation like the coronavirus
(COVID-19) pandemic. Understanding these may help you to support your family.
The common reactions to distress will fade over time for most children and
young people, though could return if they see or hear reminders of what
happened.
For infants to 2-year olds
Infants may become more easily distressed. They may cry more than usual or
want to be held and cuddled more.
For 3 to 6-year olds
Preschool and nursery children may return to behaviours they have outgrown.
For example, toileting accidents, bed-wetting, or being frightened about being
separated from their parents or carers. They may also have tantrums or
difficulty sleeping.
For 7 to 10-year olds
Older children may feel sad, angry, or afraid. Peers may share false
information but parents or carers can correct the misinformation. Older
children may focus on details of the situation and want to talk about it all
the time, or not want to talk about it at all. They may have trouble
concentrating.
For preteens and teenagers
Some preteens and teenagers respond to worrying situations by acting out. This
could include reckless driving, and alcohol or drug use. Others may become
afraid to leave the home. They may cut back on how much time they connect with
their friends. They can feel overwhelmed by their intense emotions and feel
unable to talk about them. Their emotions may lead to increased arguing and
even fighting with siblings, parents, carers or other adults. They may have
concerns about how the school closures and exam cancellations will affect
them.


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Eating disorders
Children and young people with an eating disorder may find aspects of the
current situation particularly challenging, for example reduced availability
of specific foods, exercise limits, social isolation and significant changes
to routine.
If your child or young person has an eating disorder, you can seek support and
advice from your local community eating disorder
team. Most community
eating disorder teams support direct access that is not reliant on a referral
from your GP.
For children and young people with avoidant restrictive food intake disorder
(ARFID), take care about issues that arise if there is:

reduced availability of specific foods. This may mean your child or young person who is on a limited diet cannot get the foods they eat. Many will go without rather than have something else but with risk of weight loss or further nutritional deficiency
significant changes to your child or young person’s routine – for those with ARFID this can be extremely distressing and challenging to manage. Seek advice on how you can reduce the distress and risk of further reduction of their food intake
general heightened anxiety – monitor existing anxiety and obsessive compulsive behaviours that are associated with distress and how this is interfering with eating

The eating disorder charity BEAT provide a helpline and have developed
guidance with clinicians on how to support your child or young person during
this difficult time.
[GP]: general practitioner
  [ARFID]: avoidant restrictive food intake disorder


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Children and young people with learning disabilities
Children and young people with learning disabilities can feel a loss of
control in times of uncertainty such as the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
They may need more support or adapted explanations about the outbreak. See the
easy-read coronavirus (COVID-19) guide to looking after your feelings and
your
body
for ideas.
A good way to help them could be by supporting their decisions, representing
choices visually through written words, pictures, symbol systems or objects if
helpful, supporting them to express their emotions and letting them know they
are not alone. While listening, take their feelings seriously and don’t judge
their emotions. They may feel anxious about big changes, such as the
possibility of having to stay at home for a long period. Where possible, it
can be helpful to explain any upcoming changes to routine and circumstances
before they happen and help them to plan and come up with solutions, such as
finding a hobby or doing exercises to relax and cope with anxiety.
For useful tips for talking about feelings, see Skills for Care
advice. For further guidance on
coronavirus (COVID19) for those with learning disabilities please see the
Mencap website (includes easy read materials). BILD (the Learning
Disability Professional Senate) have also published a collection of
resources that may be useful to
support families or carers of people with learning disabilities during the
coronavirus restrictions.
If your child or young person has a specific health condition that requires
them to leave the house to maintain their
health - including if that involves travel beyond your local area
- then you can if safe to do so. For example, if your child or young person
requires specific exercise in an open space 2 or 3 times each day. This should
ideally be in line with a care plan agreed with a medical professional. Even
in such cases, in order to reduce the spread of infection and protect those
exercising, travel outside of the home should be limited, as close to your
local area as possible, and you should remain at least 2 metres apart from
anyone who is not a member of your household or a carer at all times.


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Children and young people who are accessing mental health services
Plan how you will access medication
You might be able to order repeat prescriptions by phone. Or you may be able
to do this online using an app or website, if your doctor’s surgery offers
this.
Ask your pharmacy about getting medication delivered or think about who you
could ask to collect it for you. The NHS website has more information about
getting prescriptions for someone else and checking if you have to pay for
prescriptions.
Continue to order repeat prescriptions in your usual timeframe. There is no
need to order for a longer duration or larger quantities.
Your GP might convert your child or young person’s repeat prescription to one
that is supplied under the repeat dispensing arrangements. This means you can
go back to the pharmacy for a certain number of repeats without having to get
a repeat prescription from the practice.
Be careful about buying medication online. You should only buy from registered
pharmacies. You can check if a pharmacy is registered on the General
Pharmaceutical Council
website.
You might also want to make arrangements for your child or young person if you
become unwell, for example making sure a partner, friend, family member or
neighbour is aware of important information including their care plan,
medications and emergency numbers.
*[GP]: general practitioner


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Children and young people who are accessing mental health services
Children and young people with an existing mental health problem may find the
current uncertainty around the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic particularly
difficult. Their increased stress may lead to a change in their behaviours and
their mental health needs. If you are concerned about how to access support if
they need to stay at home, you may want to think about the following actions:


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Looking after your own mental health
As well as thinking about the children or young people in your care, it is
important to take care of your own mental health and wellbeing. Children and
young people react, in part, to what they see from the adults around them.
When parents and carers deal with a situation calmly and confidently, they can
provide the best support for their children and young people. Parents and
carers can be more supportive to others around them, especially children, when
they are better prepared.
See guidance on how to look after your mental health and
wellbeing during the
coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic or visit Every Mind
Matters for clear advice and
actions to take care of your mental health and wellbeing


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Children and young people who care for others
Some children and young people may also have existing caring responsibilities
for adults or siblings. They may be anxious about what will happen if the
person they care for becomes unwell, or what will happen if they themselves
become unwell and are unable to support the person they care for. Even if they
don’t currently act as a carer, it is possible that they may become one if
they are in a household with one adult.
Planning with your child or young person what will happen if you or another
member of the family they care for or may need to care for becomes unwell,
including contact details for others who can step in and support them, will
help to reduce anxiety.


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Children or young people with physical health issues
Children or young people with long term physical health issues, such as those
who need continuous use of a breathing machine or are confined to a wheelchair
or bed, may have stronger reactions to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
They might have more intense distress, worry or anger than children without
these issues because they have less control over day-to-day wellbeing than
other people. Support them by listening to their concerns, providing open and
honest explanations about the situation, and giving them information about
what is being done to protect them.
You may also be concerned about how you will continue their care if you have
to stay at home, or you may be worried about infecting them. If you usually
have support in your home, check with your local authority or care provider
what alternative arrangements are in place. Make sure it is clear if support
is still needed for your child or young person.
For further information about the conditions that put children and young
people at increased risk please see the guidance on shielding and protecting
people defined on medical grounds as extremely
vulnerable.


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Experiencing grief or bereavement
Whenever it happens, experiencing the loss of a friend or loved one can be an
extremely difficult and challenging time. Children and young people may not be
able to say goodbye in the way they would have wanted and it may be harder to
connect with their usual support networks.
Grief affects children and young people in different ways depending on their
age, their level of understanding, and the changes the death means for their
daily life. They often feel waves of powerful emotions such as sadness, guilt,
shock and anger, which they may struggle to express. It is very common for
their behaviour to change and for them to worry a lot about other people.
It can be challenging to support a child when you are grieving yourself.
Listening carefully, answering questions honestly in an age appropriate way,
continuing routines where possible, and providing lots of love and support
will help. The NHS has advice about grief and the support
available, and the Childhood Bereavement
Network has information and links to national and local support
organisations.


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Autistic children and young people
Autistic children and young people may struggle to identify any physical
symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), as well as having difficulty talking about
the emotions the situation will create. Keep an eye out for changes in
behaviour which may help you to identify their emotional state, as well as
physical symptoms.
There is going to be disruption for all of us during the pandemic, for example
it will not be possible to follow normal routines, or visit older family
members. If your child or young person becomes ill, they may struggle to
manage the physical experience. You can help to manage these changes using any
strategies that you know work for your family, or see sources of further
advice and support at the bottom of this section.
It is important to be honest when communicating with your child or young
person about the changing situation, measures they can take to stay safe, and
the symptoms of the virus. Try to avoid giving definitive statements about the
future - this is a rapidly developing situation and your child or young person
may be more distressed if things change when they were told they would not.
Keep up to date with official information about coronavirus
(COVID-19).
You should continue to access support of local autism groups online or via
phone. The National Autistic Society guidance on managing
anxiety might also be
helpful - you can call the Autism
Helpline on
0808 800 4104 for further advice.
If your child or young person has a specific health condition that requires
them to leave the house to maintain their
health - including if that involves travel beyond your local area
- then you can if safe to do so. For example, if your child or young person
requires specific exercise in an open space 2 or 3 times each day. This should
ideally be in line with a care plan agreed with a medical professional. Even
in such cases, in order to reduce the spread of infection and protect those
exercising, travel outside of the home should be limited, as close to your
local area as possible, and you should remain at least 2 metres apart from
anyone who is not a member of your household or a carer at all times.


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Where to get further support
If you are worried about your or your child or young person’s symptoms, see
the NHS website. If you
have no internet access, you should call NHS 111.
If you are worried about your child or young person’s mental health, seek help
from a professional. You may have services attached to your child or young
person’s school or college who can help. You could also contact your GP, or
look up information on children and young people’s mental health services on
your local CCG website or on the NHS website.
In a medical emergency call 999. This phone line should
be used when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk. A
mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical health
emergency and is a situation where your child or young person requires
immediate professional care. For more advice on where to get support for a
mental health crisis please see this NHS page.
If you do not feel safe at home there is help and support available to you and
your family. The household isolation instruction as a result of coronavirus
does not apply if you need to leave your home to escape domestic abuse.
Abuse is unacceptable in any situation, no matter what stresses you or others
are under. If you or others are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the
police - the police will continue to respond to emergency calls.
The Home Office has produced guidance on further support available during the
coronavirus pandemic for those who
feel at risk of abuse, and to help perpetrators to change their behaviours.
[GP]: general practitioner
  [CCG]: Clinical Commissioning Group


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Children and young people who are accessing mental health services
Speak to your child or young person’s mental health team
Contact your child or young person’s mental health team to discuss any
concerns and check how care will continue to be accessed while you are at
home. Update any safety and care plans as agreed.


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Children and young people who are accessing mental health services
Identify how the support your child or young person normally receives can be maintained
Ask about having appointments by phone, text or online, and how their health
professional can offer extra support if your child or young person needs it.
If you usually have support in your home, check with your local authority or
care provider what alternative arrangements are in place. Make sure it is
clear if support is still needed for your child or young person.
If your child or young person has been admitted to an inpatient mental health
unit, talk to the staff about their policies on access to mobile phones and
think about how you can stay in contact, particularly if you have to stay at
home. Ask the unit if you could participate in a virtual ward round to keep in
touch with your child or young person’s mental health team. If you need to
stay at home this will also impact on whether your child or young person can
come home on leave, so talk to your child or young person about what might
happen so they are fully informed.
If your child or young person becomes affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) they
will need to be cared for appropriately, so talk to the unit about what plans
are in place should this happen and how best to communicate these to your
child or young person.


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Bullying
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic may lead to some individuals experiencing
bullying, discrimination or harassment, for example due to their ethnicity or
nationality, or perceived illness. It is important to check that your children
and young people are not experiencing bullying or bullying others.
Remind your children and young people that everyone deserves to be safe
wherever they are - including online and at home. Bullying is always wrong,
and we should each do our part to spread kindness and support each other. If
they have been called names or bullied, they should feel comfortable telling
an adult whom they trust.
For more help and advice resources, please see the Anti-Bullying Alliance
website.


Guidance Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
For support as a parent or carer
Young Minds for Parents and Carers
Young Minds provides advice about mental health
and behaviour problems in children and young people up to the age of 25. You
can call the Parents’ and Carers’ Helpline on 0808 802 5544. Please be aware Young
Minds do not provide any direct psychological services and cannot make
referrals to the NHS or Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services
(CYPMHS).
Helplines and websites for your child and or young person
If your child or young person would like to speak to someone anonymously, they
could try calling a helpline or visiting websites such as ChildLine and The
Mix.
Shout provides free, confidential support,
24/7 via text for anyone at crisis anytime, anywhere.
You can:

text SHOUT to 85258 in the UK to text with a trained Crisis Volunteer
text with someone who is trained and will provide active listening and collaborative problem-solving

ChildLine provides a helpline
for any child with a problem. It comforts, advises and protects.
You can:

call 0800 1111 any time for free
have an online chat with a counsellor
check out the message boards

The Mix provides a free confidential helpline and
online service that aims to find young people the best help, whatever the
problem.
You can:

call 0808 808 4994 for free – lines are open from 11am to 11pm every day
access the online community
email The Mix


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Additional advice for groups with specific mental health needs
Managing panic and anxiety
If you have panic attacks or flashbacks, it might help to plan a ‘safe space’
in your home that you’ll go to.
You can also find ways to comfort yourself if you’re feeling anxious. For
example, Mind has games and puzzles you can use to distract
yourself, and breathing exercises which may help.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Additional advice for groups with specific mental health needs
Speaking to your mental health team
If you are already receiving mental health care, contact your mental health
team to discuss how care will continue, and to update safety/care plans.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Additional advice for groups with specific mental health needs
Existing mental health problems
If you already have a mental health problem, then you may be finding the
coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak particularly challenging. The advice above
should help, but here are a few extra things that you may want to think about.
This advice is part of comprehensive
guidance provided by Mind.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Autistic people
You may be finding the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak stressful and be
worried about getting the virus or changes that might happen because of it,
including having to stay at home. There are ways you can take care of yourself
and prevent spreading the virus:
Understand what is happening
Keep up to date with information about Coronavirus (COVID-19) from sources you
can trust, such as the NHS
website.
Help to stop the virus from spreading
There are 4 easy steps you can take to reduce the risk of getting coronavirus
or spreading it to others:

wash hands regularly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water
use a tissue for coughs and sneezes and bin it
avoid touching your face, including your mouth and eyes
get up to date information about staying at home or what to do if you feel unwell on the NHS 111 website. If you are unsure about your symptoms speak to someone you trust about them, like a support worker

Plan to keep mentally well
Do the things you would usually do to keep well, like eating food you enjoy
and taking exercise, once a day outside if you can. If you have support from
others, plan with them how you can remain well and relaxed. There are also
other things you can do to help to manage your emotions if you feel you are
losing control, such as:

keeping a diary
using apps like Brain in Hand
learning relaxation techniques
creating a plan with your carer for when you feeling anxiety

You know what strategies have helped in the past, so use them again now. The
National Autistic Society guidance on managing
anxiety might also be
helpful.
Get help if you are struggling
Hearing about coronavirus (COVID-19), and the changes it causes in your daily
life, might make you feel like you don’t have control, or make you worried or
scared about your health. These feelings are common. Try to speak to someone
you trust such as a friend, family member or supporter.
If you do become unwell and need medical treatment, share your hospital
passport or autism diagnosis so staff know the best way to support you.
If you are still feeling worried and want more help. You can call the Autism
Helpline on
0808 800 4104.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Staying at home
Practical issues
Recent guidance is clear about the need for people to stay at
home. If you are feeling anxious it might
help to think about potential challenges and make a plan for them.
Supplies: Think about how you can get any supplies you need – either from
a neighbour, family friends or a delivery service so you don’t worry about
running out. Try to pick healthy food, especially as you might not get as much
exercise as normal.
Financial concerns: You may be worried about work and money if you have to
stay home – these issues can have a big impact on your mental health. For
guidance on what your rights are at work, what benefits you are entitled and
what further support is available please see our guidance for
employees or advice from
citizens advice or the National Debt
line.
If you care for other people: You may be worried about how to ensure care
for those who rely on you – either your dependants at home or others that you
regularly visit. Let your local authority know if you provide care, or support someone you don’t live with.
Further advice on creating a contingency plan is available from Carers
UK.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Additional advice for groups with specific mental health needs
Managing feelings of being trapped or claustrophobia
You are probably spending more time than usual at home so try to get outside
if you can, once a day. You could also open the windows to let in fresh air,
find a place to sit with a view outside, or sit on your doorstep or in your
garden if you have one. It can also help to regularly change the rooms you
spend time in (if possible). This can help to give you a sense of space.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Additional advice for groups with specific mental health needs
If you are reducing your drinking significantly
If you are reducing your drinking, remember it can be dangerous to stop too
quickly without proper support. If you have physical withdrawal symptoms (like
shaking, sweating or feeling anxious until you have your first drink of the
day) you should seek medical advice. For further advice available in your area
(including remote services) see NHS
advice.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
What can help your mental health and wellbeing
Consider how to connect with others: Maintaining relationships with people
you trust is important for your mental wellbeing. Think about how you can stay
in touch with friends and family via telephone, video calls or social media
instead of meeting in person – whether it’s people you normally see often or
connecting with old friends.
Help and support others: Think about how you could help those around you –
it could make a big difference to them and can make you feel better too. Could
you message a friend or family member nearby? Are there community groups that
you could join to support others locally? Remember it’s important to do this
in line with guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19) to keep yourself and everyone
safe. And try to be accepting of other people’s concerns, worries or
behaviours.
Talk about your worries: It is quite common to feel worried, scared or
helpless about the current situation. Remember that this is a difficult time
for everyone and sharing how you are feeling and the things you are doing to
cope with family and friends can help them too. If you don’t feel able to do
that, there are people you can speak to via NHS recommended
helplines or you could find support groups online to connect with.
Look after your physical wellbeing: Your physical health has a big impact
on how you are feeling emotionally and mentally. At times like these, it can
be easy to fall into unhealthy patterns of behaviour which in turn can make
you feel worse. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, drink enough water,
exercise inside where possible and outside once a day, and try to avoid
smoking, alcohol and drugs.
If you are able to go outside, consider walking or gardening (keeping the
recommended 2 metres from others as outlined in the social distancing
guidance). If you are staying at home, you can
find free easy 10 minute work outs from Public Health England or other
exercise videos to try at home on the NHS Fitness
Studio. Sport England also
has good tips for keeping active at home.
Look after your sleep: Feeling anxious or worried can make it harder to
get a good night’s sleep. Good-quality sleep makes a big difference to how you
feel mentally and physically, so it’s important to get enough.
Try to maintain regular sleeping patterns and keep good sleep hygiene
practices – like avoiding screens before bed, cutting back on caffeine and
creating a restful environment. The Every Mind Matters sleep
page provides practical
advice on how to improve your sleep.
Try to manage difficult feelings: Many people find the news about
coronavirus (COVID-19) concerning. However, some people may experience such
intense anxiety that it becomes a problem. Try to focus on the things you can
control, including where you get information from and actions to make yourself
feel better prepared.
It is okay to acknowledge some things that are outside of your control right
now but constant repetitive thoughts about the situation which lead you to
feel anxious or overwhelmed are not helpful. The Every Mind Matters page on
anxiety and NHS
mental wellbeing audio guides provide further
information on how to manage anxiety.
Manage your media and information intake: 24-hour news and constant social
media updates can make you more worried. If it is affecting you, try to limit
the time you spend watching, reading, or listening to media coverage of the
outbreak. It may help to only check the news at set times or limiting to a
couple of checks a day.
Get the facts: Gather high-quality information that will help you to
accurately determine your own or other people’s risk of contracting
coronavirus (COVID-19) so that you can take reasonable precautions. Find a
credible source you can trust such as
GOV.UK, or the NHS
website, and fact check
information that you get from newsfeeds, social media or from other people.
Think about how possibly inaccurate information could affect others too. Try
not to share information without fact-checking against credible sources.
Think about your new daily routine: Life is changing for us all for a
while. Whether you are staying at home or social distancing, you are likely to
see some disruption to your normal routine.
Think about how you can adapt and create positive new routines – try to engage
in useful activities (such as cleaning, cooking or exercise) or meaningful
activities (such as reading or calling a friend). You might find it helpful to
write a plan for your day or your week.
Do things you enjoy: When you are anxious, lonely or low you may do things
that you usually enjoy less often, or not at all. Focussing on your favourite
hobby, learning something new or simply taking time to relax indoors should
give you some relief from anxious thoughts and feelings and can boost your
mood.
If you can’t do the things you normally enjoy because you are staying at home,
try to think about how you could adapt them, or try something new. There are
lots of free tutorials and courses online and people are coming up with
innovative online solutions like online pub quizzes and streamed live music
concerts.
Set goals: Setting goals and achieving them gives a sense of control and
purpose – think about things you want or need to do that you can still do at
home. It could be watching a film, reading a book or learning something
online.
Keep your mind active: Read, write, play games, do crossword puzzles,
sudokus, jigsaws or drawing and painting. Find something that works for you.
Take time to relax and focus on the present: This can help with difficult
emotions, worries about the future, and can improve wellbeing. Relaxation
techniques can also help some people to deal with feelings of anxiety. For
useful resources see Every Mind Matters and NHS’ mindfulness
page.
If you can, once a day get outside, or bring nature in: Spending time in
green spaces can benefit both your mental and physical wellbeing. If you can’t
get outside much you can try to still get these positive effects by spending
time with the windows open to let in fresh air, arranging space to sit and see
a nice view (if possible) and get some natural sunlight, or get out into the
garden if you can.
Remember that social distancing
guidelines enable you to go outside to exercise
once a day as long as you keep 2 metres apart from others who are not members
of your household group.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Additional advice for groups with specific mental health needs
Managing difficult feelings or behaviours to do with hygiene, washing or fears of infection
Some mental health problems can cause difficult feelings or behaviours to do
with washing or hygiene. If you experience this, you might find it hard to
hear advice about washing your hands.
It is important to follow government advice on helping to avoid the spread of
coronavirus (COVID-19), but if you find you are going beyond the
recommendations, if this is making you feel stressed or anxious, or if you are
having intrusive thoughts here are some things you could try:

don’t keep re-reading the same advice if this is unhelpful for you
let other people know you’re struggling, for example, you could ask them not to discuss the news with you
breathing exercises can help you cope and feel more in control. You can find a simple breathing exercise on the NHS website and Mind’s pages on relaxation have some relaxation tips and exercises you can try
set limits, like washing your hands for the recommended 20 seconds
plan something to do after washing your hands, which could help distract you and change your focus
it could also help to read some of Mind’s tips in their information on obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Dealing with a mental health crisis or emergency
You may find that the added stress of the current situation could have a big
impact on your mental health. In some cases, you may feel that you are having
a mental health crisis as you no longer feel able to cope or be in control of
your situation.
You may: feel great emotional distress or anxiety, feel that you cannot cope
with day-to-day life or work, think about self-harm or even suicide, or
experience or hear voices (hallucinations).
If this sort of situation happens, you should get immediate expert assessment
and advice to identify the best course of action:

if you have already been given a Crisis Line number from a health professional, please call it

if you’re under the care of a mental health team and have a specific care plan that states who to contact when you need urgent care, follow this plan

Mind also provides information about how to plan for a crisis

Samaritans has a free to call service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, if you want to talk to someone in confidence. Call them on 116 123

find local crisis support services near you that can support you

you can contact NHS 111 if you need urgent care but it’s not life-threatening

in a medical emergency, call 999 if you are seriously ill or injured and your life is at risk. A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical health emergency

See further advice from the NHS on dealing with a mental health
crisis.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Older people
Government
guidance is that older people are at increased
risk of severe illness and need to be particularly stringent in following
social distancing measures and staying at home. Given this, it is natural for
older people, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions, to feel
concerned or affected by changes you have to make to your daily life. The
following suggestions may help with any difficult feelings and look after your
mental health:
Stay connected
Draw on support you might have through your friends, family and other
networks. Try to stay in touch with those around you, this might be over the
phone, by post, or online. If you have been advised to stay at home, let
people know how you would like to stay in touch and build that into your
routine.
Get practical help
If you need help, for example with shopping or running errands, ask for it and
let those around you know what they can do. If you need help but you’re not
sure who to contact, Age UK runs an advice
line (0800 678 1602 –
lines are open every day, 8am to 7pm) that can put you in touch with local
services.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Staying at home
If you are being treated or taking medication for existing conditions
Recent guidance is clear about the need for people to stay at
home. If you are feeling anxious it might
help to think about potential challenges and make a plan for them.
Continue accessing treatment and support where possible: Let relevant
services know that you are staying at home, and work out how to continue
receiving support during this time:

ask about having appointments by phone, text or online. For example, this could be with your counsellor, therapist or support worker, nurse, care worker or befriender

if you use care services that will be affected by staying at home, you should let your local authority and care provider know so alternative arrangements can be put in place

make it clear if any support is still needed. Tell them that alternative arrangements are required if any of the usual support can’t continue. This may include things like carers visiting, day centre sessions, or friends and family coming over to help

Keep taking your medication: You might be able to order repeat
prescriptions by phone, or online using an app or website if your doctor’s
surgery offers this.

ask your pharmacy about getting your medication delivered or think about who you could ask to collect it for you. The NHS website has more information about getting prescriptions for someone else and checking if you have to pay for prescriptions

continue to order your repeat prescriptions in your usual timeframe. There is no need to order for a longer duration or larger quantities

your GP practice (or clinical team) may move your prescriptions to repeat dispensing arrangements so you only have to contact your pharmacy to get a repeat of your medicine rather than your practice

be careful about buying medication online. You should only buy from registered pharmacies. You can check if a pharmacy is registered on the General Pharmaceutical Council website

you can contact NHS 111 in England if you’re worried about accessing medication

*[GP]: general practitioner


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Where to get further support
Managing physical symptoms that are triggered by stress and anxiety
It is quite common to experience short-lived physical symptoms when your mood
is low or anxious, for example:

faster, irregular or more noticeable heartbeat
feeling lightheaded and dizzy
headaches
chest pains or loss of appetite

It can be difficult to know what is causing these symptoms, but often people
who experience them due to stress, anxiety or low mood find that they get
worse when they focus on them. See advice from the NHS on managing the
physical symptoms.
If you are concerned about your physical symptoms, then do contact NHS 111
online.
For advice on coronavirus (COVID-19) and any symptoms see the NHS
website.
If you are experiencing stress, feelings of anxiety or low mood, you can use
the NHS mental health and wellbeing advice
website for self-
assessment, audio guides and practical tools Every Mind
Matters also provides simple
tips and advice to start taking better care of your mental health. If you are
still struggling after several weeks and it is affecting your daily life,
please contact NHS 111 online. If you have no internet
access, you should call NHS 111.
In a medical emergency call 999. This is when someone is
seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk. A mental health emergency
should be taken as seriously as a physical health emergency.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
People with a learning disability
You may be finding the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak stressful. You may be
worried about changes that might happen because of it, including having to
stay at home. You may also be worried about your family or those close to you.
Public Health England has easy read
guidance
on coronavirus (COVID-19) and how it may affect you. There is also other
information available about coronavirus (COVID-19) from
Mencap and
how to manage difficult feelings you are having.
There are ways you can take care of yourself and prevent spreading the virus:

as you are asked to now stay at home you should keep in touch with people you trust (like friends, family and employer) over the phone or internet - follow the advice from the stay at home and social distancing guidance
there may also be self-advocacy groups in your area offering more support online or by phone - you can ask your families or carers for help to search for these groups
it is also important to get information about coronavirus (COVID-19) only from places you can trust, such as the NHS website

While it is important to be aware of coronavirus (COVID-19), it is important
not to forget about any other health conditions you might have. Make sure you
take any medication you have been prescribed, keep any hospital appointments
you have (unless you have been told otherwise by the hospital) and tell people
if you can’t attend appointments.


Guidance Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
People living with dementia
You may feel concerned about coronavirus how it could affect you. Alzheimer’s
Society has published information on coronavirus for people affected by
dementia.
If you’d like to connect and talk with other people affected by dementia, you
can visit the Alzheimer’s Society online community Talking
Point.
A range of information on information on dementia is also available from
Alzheimer’s Research UK.
If you are still feeling worried and want more help you can call the
Alzheimer’s Society Helpline on 0300 222 11 22.
You can also speak to a dementia specialist Admiral Nurse on Dementia UK’s
Helpline, on 0800
888 6687.


Guidance Guidance for those who provide unpaid care to friends or family
General advice
Facemasks
We do not recommend the use of facemasks as an effective means of preventing
the spread of infection, unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Facemasks play an important role in clinical settings, such as hospitals,
where staff are trained in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) but
there is little evidence of benefit from their general use outside of these
settings.


Guidance Guidance for those who provide unpaid care to friends or family
General advice
Maintaining your own health while you are looking after others
It is important that you look after your own health and wellbeing as well as
supporting others you care for, especially given the potential for additional
stresses at the current time and the potential for reduced access to support
such as respite care. There is information in the Stay at home
guidance and the Guidance on social distancing for everyone in the UK and
protecting older people and vulnerable
adults about looking after your wellbeing, as
well as more detailed guidance on self-care and sources of support for mental
health and wellbeing during the
outbreak.
Tips include taking care of your mind as well as your body and getting support
if you need it. Daily physical activity is important for health and wellbeing,
including managing stress, and encouraging positive feelings and sleep. You
can look for ideas of exercises you can do at
home
from Public Health England (PHE).
Draw on support you might have through your friends, family and other networks
during this time. Try to stay in touch with those around you over the phone,
by post, or online. Let people know how you would like to stay in touch and
build that into your routine. This is also important in looking after your
mental wellbeing and you may find it helpful to talk to them about how you are
feeling.
There are sources of support and information that can help, such as the Every
Mind Matters website.
Remember it is OK to share your concerns with others you trust and in doing so
you may end up providing support to them, too. Or you can use a NHS
recommended helpline.
It may also be helpful to contact your local carers support organisation who
can help with contingency planning. You can find out about local carer
organisations at Carers UK. There is also an online forum on Carers
UK.


Guidance Guidance for those who provide unpaid care to friends or family
If you or the person you care for has symptoms
If the person you care for has symptoms
The person you care for has symptoms, and you are not in a clinically
‘vulnerable group’ or clinically ‘extremely vulnerable group’ with increased
risk of severe illness
If someone in your household has symptoms you should follow the Stay at home
guidance which states that if you live alone and you have symptoms of
COVID-19, however mild, you should stay at home for 7 days from when your
symptoms started or until you are better, whichever is the longer.
If you live with others and you are the first in the household to have
symptoms of coronavirus, then you must stay at home for 7 days, or until your
symptoms have gone, but all other household members who remain well must stay
at home and not leave the house for 14 days.
The 14-day period starts from the day when the first person in the house
became ill. For anyone else in the household who starts displaying symptoms,
they need to stay at home for 7 days from when their symptoms appeared – or
until their symptoms have gone, whichever is the longer – regardless of what
day they are on in the original 14-day isolation period.
However, we appreciate following the Stay at Home guidance may not be easy to
achieve where you provide close contact care, such as washing and bathing, for
a spouse or relative.
If you do not fall into the clinically ‘vulnerable group’ or the clinically
‘extremely vulnerable group’ you can continue to provide care. You should
review the above guidelines to take measures to protect yourself and others in
the household as best you can by following advice on hygiene and distancing
where possible.
Information on cleaning and hygiene when caring for someone with symptoms
The Stay at home
guidance provides information on washing your hands, cleaning and disposing
of waste, and cleaning laundry, as well as other information for those living
with a vulnerable person.
The person you care for has symptoms and you are in a clinically
‘vulnerable group’ (see above)
If someone in your household has symptoms you should follow the Stay at home
guidance which states that if you live alone and you have symptoms of
COVID-19, however mild, stay at home for 7 days from when your symptoms
started.
If you live with others and you are the first in the household to have
symptoms of coronavirus, then you must stay at home for 7 days, but all other
household members who remain well must stay at home and not leave the house
for 14 days.
The 14-day period starts from the day when the first person in the house
became ill. For anyone else in the household who starts displaying symptoms,
they need to stay at home for 7 days from when the symptoms appeared,
regardless of what day they are on in the original 14-day isolation period.
You should also review the Guidance on social distancing for everyone in the
UK and protecting older people and vulnerable
adults for information about those people who
are considered at increased risk of severe illness from coronavirus
(COVID-19). If you are within this group, you should be particularly stringent
in following social distancing measures set out in the guidance.
However, we appreciate this may not be easy to achieve where you provide close
contact care for a spouse or relative such as washing and bathing.
Where possible ask friends and family who can support you in providing care.
You should distance yourself from the person you care for as much as possible
and follow the above guidance.
You can find out about local carer organisations at Carers
UK or
through your local authority.
The person you care for has symptoms and you are in a clinically
‘extremely vulnerable group’ (see above)
As per the guidance for clinically extremely vulnerable
groups, you should
strictly avoid contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of coronavirus
(COVID-19).
Where possible, ask friends and family who can support you in providing care
for their help. You should distance yourself from the person you care for as
much as possible and follow the above guidance.
If you cannot organise alternative care you can contact your local
authority or health care
provider. If you do not know how to do
this you can contact NHS 111. It may also be helpful to contact your local
carers support organisation. You can find out about local carer organisations
at Carers UK.


Guidance Guidance for those who provide unpaid care to friends or family
General advice
Protecting yourself and the person you care for
Keep up to date with announcements and advice on GOV.UK and follow the latest
advice set out in the Guidance on social distancing for everyone in the UK
and protecting older people and vulnerable
adults, which includes tips on how to help
protect a vulnerable person you live with.
Cleaning your hands frequently throughout the day by washing with soap and
water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitiser will help protect you
and the people you live with. This step is one of the most effective ways of
reducing the risk of infection for you and other people. This includes when
you arrive at the home of the person you care for, if you do not live with
them, or have been out.
See specific situations below for what to do if you or the person you care for
display symptoms.


Guidance Guidance for those who provide unpaid care to friends or family
General advice
Caring for someone who is clinically ‘extremely vulnerable’
The guidance on shielding and protecting the clinically extremely
vulnerable people
from COVID-19 gives details. From the week of 23 March, those in the
clinically ‘extremely vulnerable’ group should also have received a letter
from the relevant GP or specialist with further information.
If you are caring for someone who falls into the clinically ‘extremely
vulnerable’ category for risk of severe illness from COVID-19, there are some
simple steps that you can take to protect them and to reduce their risk.
Ensure you follow advice on good hygiene:

only care that is essential should be provided
wash your hands when you arrive at the home of the person you care for and often thereafter, using soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser
cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
do not visit if you are unwell and make alternative arrangements for their care
provide information on who they should call if they feel unwell, how to use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service and leave the number for NHS 111 prominently displayed
find out about different sources of support that could be used and access further advice on creating a contingency plan is available from Carers UK