COVID-19 Information & signposting for residents 

With over 7,000 households within the Parish, we are taking steps to keep you all informed about COVID-19, with factual information and advice.  
Together we are stronger. 

Latest information updated 20th January 2022. 

The UK Government announced a move to lift ALL PLAN B RESTRICTIONS.  
This will happen from 00:01 on 27th January 2022. 
 
Key points: 
Face masks no longer compulsory in most public indoor venues, or for Secondary School pupils from Thursday 20th January. However, the government suggests you continue to wear one in crowded and indoor spaces where you may come into contact with people you do not normally meet. 
Covid passes, proof of vaccination or a recent negative test will no longer be needed to gain entry to nightclubs and other large venues. 
Guidance to work from home ended on 19th January. 
The legal requirement to self-isolate if you test positive for covid remains. 
Head over to the government website for the latest information HERE 
 
All adults over the age of 18 can now get vaccinated against COVID-19. To find out more and book yours click HERE. 
We are keeping up to date with advice from Public Health England and NHS 111. 
We recommend seeking advice from the same, reliable sources, not Facebook, Twitter or other Social Media outlets. 

Good Hand-washing & Hygiene Practices  

Washing hands properly and regularly is still important! 
Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser regularly throughout the day. Regular hand washing is an effective way to reduce your risk of catching illnesses, including COVID-19. 
 
It is particularly important to wash your hands: 
⚫️After coughing, sneezing and blowing your nose 
⚫️Before you eat or handle food 
⚫️After coming into contact with surfaces touched by many others, such as handles, handrails and light switches 
⚫️After coming into contact with shared areas such as kitchens and bathrooms 
⚫️When you return home 
⚫️Where possible, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. If you do need to touch your face (for example to put on or take off your face covering), wash or sanitise your hands before and after. 
Photo credit: BBC NEWS 

The Food Bank 

We run a serving centre from our Oakgrove office, twice a week on Tuesdays & Thursdays - 2:30pm till 4pm. 
If you need help, please call the MK Food Bank helpline on 0300 303 4933 or text HELP to 07874 964505 to discuss your situation in confidence with experienced staff. 
Alternatively, you can visit their website mkfoodbank.org.uk 
See below for Christmas opening times. Our last session will be Thursday 23rd December. 

Need assistance? 

As we start to return to 'normal' please see below for a list of local organisations/services/groups that may be able to provide help and support or simply friendship. These are not endorsed in any way by the Parish Council. 
 

Financially affected by Covid? 

MK Signpost may be able to help. 

MK CITIZENS ADVICE OUTREACH SERVICE 

The Parish Council subsidises a fortnightly outreach service on Wednesday's, for residents of the parish, which can be booked directly with MKCAB. Found out more HERE. 

Help available 

Domestic violence has doubled during the pandemic. Please don't be afraid to seek help. 
 
 
Women's Aid run a live chat service, their hours are Monday to Friday 10:00am - 4:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 10:00am-12:00pm. If you need to talk in silence you can via their website. 
 
Or if you can talk you can call MK Act on 0344 375 4307 (Monday to Friday). Calls are low cost and in confidence. If you need help outside these hours call the National Helpline on 08082000247. 
 
 
If you think you might be in danger, call the police immediately on 999. 
If you can't speak, use the Silent Solution 
 
 
OK Rehab specialises in addiction treatment. This treatment is available via both inpatient and outpatient treatment providers. They also work with clinics that are able to facilitate treatment taking place in your own home, who are able to provide professional intervention and home detoxification.