PUBLIC health leaders are reminding local people that there is a range of support available in Warrington for anyone whose life has been impacted by Covid-19.
The pandemic has taken its toll on people in many different ways, with some people’s lives affected more severely than others.
Some people may be struggling to adapt to a world that has changed and may be suffering from anxiety. In some homes, the stress of the past 18 months has led to family relationships becoming difficult to manage. There has also been an increase in people who live in fear of or experience violence in their own home.
At the same time, restrictions have meant most people have not been able to move about as much as they used to. Being at home all of the time has led to many people eating more than usual, while the limited opportunities to socialise have led some to drink more alcohol at home, which has become a difficult routine to break.
The pandemic has also had a financial impact, with many people being placed on furlough or losing their job. This has caused hardship, leading to rent arrears or difficulty keeping up with mortgage payments.
Warrington Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for public health and wellbeing, Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has brought huge changes to everyday life. It has been a very stressful time and this has taken its toll on everyone’s wellbeing. We know that some people are struggling to cope with these challenges.
“The good news is that there is support available for anyone who needs it. If you have been feeling anxious, lonely or down, please get some advice. Talking to someone can help you find new ways to think about things.
“Sadly, we know that the pressures of the past 18 months have led to an increase in the breakdown of family relationships and also a rise in violence within the home. If you have been impacted in this way, please don’t suffer in silence.
“At the same time, if you have financial problems, there is support to help you sort this out, whether this is through money advice, help with budgeting and access to benefits, help in finding a new job, or even exploring retraining if your former job no longer exists.
“You can also access a number of services to help you make the positive change to kick-start your journey to health – with guidance available on getting active, healthier food choices, and cutting down on alcohol.”
The council’s public health team is highlighting the following support for local people:
•If you are suffering from long-term medical symptoms related to Covid, you should, of course speak to your GP. However, if you are not happy with the care you have been given, you can contact the Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS) who can assist with any concerns you may have, provide independent advice and resolve problems. Tel: 01925 27 5512; Out of hours tel: 01925 66 2281 (24 hour voicemail); Email: [email protected]
•If you are struggling with anxiety, visit the NHS Every Mind Matters website for tips and advice. If you urgently need to speak to someone about your mental health, you can call the NHS dedicated, 24-7 crisis line, on 0800 051 1508.
•People can also talk to the council’s wellbeing team to get the information and support they need to start feeling back on track. Call 01925 248460 or email [email protected]
•To kick-start your health, manage your weight or get exercising, visit the Livewire Lifestyle web page or call 0300 003 0818
•For employment and financial issues (including mortgagee arrears) visit the Citizens Advice Bureau website or email [email protected]. You can also call the National Advice line on 0300 3309 091
•If you think you are in danger of losing your home or becoming homeless, visit the Housing Plus website. You can also email them at [email protected] or call on 01925 444400.
•Complete the quiz on the Change Grow Live website that gives a guide to whether your drinking has become a problem. You can also call CGL on 01925 415176, or email [email protected].
•If you are suffering from intimidation or violence in your home or from a partner, visit the council’s domestic abuse web page for support
•Warrington Community Centres are located across the borough and offer a wide variety of activities, including money advice, exercise classes, luncheon clubs and craft session. You can find your nearest centre and find out what is happening in your area by visiting warrington.gov.uk/communitycentres or calling 01925 818017.
•We all deserve to enjoy life and feel good about ourselves. Sometimes however life can be tough. Whether you’re feeling great and want to stay that way, you’re a bit fed up; or you’re struggling to manage your feelings, the Happy OK Sad website has links to information and tips ranging from how to boost your mood, to where to get help if you’re unable to cope. happyoksad.warrington.gov.uk
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