Clinically extremely vulnerable people in Tier 4 areas of Essex advised to shield

Clinically Extremely Vulnerable people in Tier four areas of Essex advised to shield

ESSEX residents who are classed as clinically extremely vulnerable and living under Tier 4 restrictions, are once again being advised by the Government to shield in order to protect themselves from catching Covid-19.

Those who are clinically extremely vulnerable will receive a letter from the Government, outlining the new guidance, including to stay at home at all times, unless for exercise or medical appointments, and not to attend work, even if they are unable to work from home.

The National Shielding Service has been reactivated and at a local level, the Essex Wellbeing Service (EWS) can provide vulnerable Essex residents with a single point of access to the practical, emotional and specialist support they need. Practical support on offer ranges from help accessing priority supermarket shopping slots, volunteers collecting medicines and befriending support via a phone buddy.

Residents can access the Essex Wellbeing Service (EWS) by calling 0300 303 9988 or visiting www.essexwellbeingservice.co.uk. The EWS is available to all Essex residents, regardless of which Tier they live in and will be available for emergency support only between 25-28 December.

The Government has also issued further guidance for vulnerable residents living in Tier 2 areas. In Essex, this currently applies to Uttlesford, Tendring and Colchester.

Although not required to shield in the same way as those living in Tier 4 areas, it is important for clinically extremely vulnerable residents living in Tier 2 areas to continue to take precautions, including keeping the number of different people they meet with consistently low.

Cllr John Spence, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: “The latest Government announcement has presented difficulties for lots of people and we do not underestimate the impact the new restrictions will have on thousands of Essex residents, particularly those who are clinically extremely vulnerable.

“I want to reassure anyone who is worried that you will have the support you need while you are shielding.

“Anyone who doesn’t have an existing support network, please reach out – there is help available locally and there is no need for anyone to feel that they are suffering alone at this time.”

Help is also available through the Essential Living Fund. Adults and families who are struggling to pay their bills and for essential household items during the Covid-19 pandemic, and live in Essex, can apply to The Essex Essential Living Fund by through Southend Borough Council at www.southend.gov.uk/extra-financial-help/essential-living-fund

This shielding guidance is officially in place for the next two weeks, but could potentially remain in place for up to four weeks.