Coronavirus - COVID19 & Our Well-being
None of us would have expected that as we move into glorious Springtime we would all be facing a season of confinement in our own houses. How quickly things can change.
It’s evident that many people feel that they are not frightened by COVID-19 and don’t necessarily support the measures taken by the Government tonight. Of course, it’s not how we are impacted as individuals and how much fight or fear we may have so much as the impact our actions have on others.
The nightmare scenario for most of us is that we are ill or in an accident with no medical support – that’s why we all care so much about the NHS. Worse still, it’s our partners, friends or family that may need the help we can’t obtain.
That will be the reality if our medical services become overwhelmed in the coming weeks.
Locking ourselves inside seems like a pretty small price to pay to maximise the chances of slowing the progression of the virus through our community in the next few weeks and potentially saving lives for any of us.
I know that our local hospital and general practices are putting in massive efforts to give themselves the best shot at coping with the impending outbreak. I just hope we can stay resolute in giving them every chance of succeeding.
So far, we have seen several initiatives in MK and our own Parish to look out for and help those people who need it. Whether it’s a phone call or an offer of help with food or medicine delivery these times demonstrate the kindness and spirit that comes with a national emergency. We would like to thank all those people and supporters who are committing their efforts in this way.
The Parish Council had its first ever meeting in a car park last week so that it could pass powers to do its essential work – whatever that is in the coming period.
Inevitably, we are all going to be more constrained as we try to lock out the virus from spreading but we hope that we can report on many more acts of love and thoughtfulness as we navigate our way to being one of the most caring communities in the future.
Many thanks for your support and gratitude for all the hard work of those providing unselfish service for us all as we overcome these challenging times.
This Parish Council will do all in its power to keep you aware of developments and opportunities to help us collectively keep us all as safe as possible.
General FAQ's
Q: My car needs its MOT can I take it to the garage?
Q: I'm feeling really worried and anxious about coronavirus.
A: It's perfectly normal to have these feelings, take a look at the Mind website for some great info on mental well-being. Details HERE.
Q: Should I wear a face mask?
A: World Health Organisation are now recommending the use of masks when in a more populated area, such as supermarkets - you do not need to use a mask when walking outside. When wearing a mask you STILL need to maintain social distancing and STILL wash hands regularly.
Taking time to care for ourselves
Take some time to yourself and listen to some peaceful meditation music.
Feelings of panic, worry and general anxiousness are all normal & understandable - try to shift your mindset by looking at this great advice.
Photo credit: SELFA Children's Charity
Why not use the time to learn something new? The Open University have a huge variety of free courses you can take. Check them out HERE!
National Theatre are screening full length plays EVERY Thursday on YouTube
Children
This can be a very unsettling time for children, schools are mainly closed, its a bit like the holidays but you can't go out to play with your friends, no sleep overs or hanging out. Here are some links with things to do for households with children:
Watch this useful video from CBBC with your children, it may answer some of their (and maybe even yours!) questions about coronavirus.
Click on the cartoon image below for the link to the full comic 'Exploring The Coronavirus'
Click HERE for Edinburgh Zoo's animal web-cams!
Click HERE to take a virtual tour around London's British Museum.
Click HERE to take a virtual tour of the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam
Learn Maths HERE with Carol Vorderman
Tune in every day at 11am to hear David Walliams read a story HERE!
Go Live with Maddie & Greg everyday at 11am to learn about wildlife, check them out HERE!
Channel your inner dancer and check out Strictly Come Dancing's Oti Mabuse's Facebook page for a daily dance dose at 11:30am
If you want to learn some music then head over to Myleene Klass's YouTube channel for a daily music class.
Loads of great ideas from MK Council's Waste Education Team - recycling teaching resources from colouring in sheets to educational videos!
Easter Activity Booklet from Morgan Sindall Construction
Support
Counsellors available until 10pm every day. Free, safe and anonymous online counselling for young people.
https://www.mkyis.org.uk/
Chat with us on Messenger at m.me/YiSMentalHealth
If you’re worried about a vulnerable adult call 01908 253 772
0800 58 58 58
Provides listening services, information and support for men at
risk of suicide, including web chat
Support for Young Carers under 18
Friendly Men’s Advice Line Advisors will believe you, offer you non-judgmental emotional support, practical advice and information.
University of Reading developed the COVID-19: Helping Young People Manage Low Mood and Depression course for young people with low mood and depression and their parents and carers, or anyone who has contact with young people during the coronavirus pandemic. Find out more HERE.
