Simple Signposting to Better Health and Wellbeing
Havering
Self-care and National Support Services
NATIONAL SUPPORT
Do you think you would benefit from some further support to reduce your drinking to 'lower risk' levels?
- Speak to your GP, a loved one or call Drinkline 0300 1231110 (Mon-Fri 9am - 8pm, weekends 11am - 4pm). The Drinkline service provides free, confidential, accurate and consistent information and advice to callers who are concerned about their own or someone else`s drinking regardless of the caller`s age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity or spirituality.
- The 'One You' drinks tracker app makes it easy to keep an eye on the booze and take control with daily tips and feedback.
- NHS Better Health have a 'Drink Free Days' app and tips on how to reduce alcohol consumption.
- Mutual Aid services including twelve step programmes and Smart Recovery are available to anyone who wants support to address their drug or alcohol use. You can find a meeting here:
- Alcoholics Anonymous https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/
- Narcotics Anonymous https://online.ukna.org/
- Cocaine Anonymous https://www.ca-online.org/
- SMART Recovery https://smartrecovery.org.uk/online-meetings/
SELF CARE
Further tips on cutting down
- Alcoholics Anonymous https://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/
- Narcotics Anonymous https://online.ukna.org/
- Cocaine Anonymous https://www.ca-online.org/
- SMART Recovery https://smartrecovery.org.uk/online-meetings/
Make a plan
Before you start drinking, set a limit on how much you're going to drink.
Set a budget
Only take a fixed amount of money to spend on alcohol.
Let them know
If you let your friends and family know you're cutting down and it's important to you, you could get support from them.
Take it a day at a time
Cut back a little each day. That way, every day you do is a success.
Make it a smaller one
You can still enjoy a drink, but go for smaller sizes. Try bottled beer instead of pints, or a small glass of wine instead of a large one.
Have a lower-strength drink
Cut down the alcohol by swapping strong beers or wines for ones with a lower strength (ABV in %). You'll find this information on the bottle.
Stay hydrated
Have a glass of water before you have alcohol and alternate alcoholic drinks with water or a soft drink.
Take a break
Have several drink-free days each week.
Local Support Services
Change, Grow, Live (CGL)
Aspire offer a free and confidential support service for individuals and their families affected by drug and alcohol problems. We operate from our bases on Romford High Street, as well as across other locations in Havering. Our service is free and open to anyone living in Havering aged 18 or over.
We focus on your recovery, and we'll design the treatment to help you achieve your goals. We offer:
- Harm reduction advice
- Access to substitute medication
- Referrals to residential and community detoxes and residential rehab
- Counselling
- One-to-one advice and group work programmes with specialist workers
At the moment, due to coronavirus, we're doing initial assessments over the phone or online. If you really need to, we can see you face to face.
Website: Info - Aspire - Havering | Change Grow Live
Referral: Referrals - Aspire - Havering | Change Grow Live
Telephone: 0170 8747 614
Email: havering.info@cgl.org.uk
Address: Aspire, Havering, Ballard Chambers, 26 High Street, Romford RM1 1HR
Self-care and National Support Services
National Support Services
The Money Helper Service was set up by the Government and offers free impartial advice including
- Advice and guides to help improve your finances
- Tools and calculators to help keep track and plan ahead
- Support over the phone and online
https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en
0800 1387777 (free phone)
Got a question? You can start a Webchat online.
Webchat opening hours:
- Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
- Saturday, 8am to 3pm
- Sunday and Bank Holidays, closed.
WhatsApp: Need help sorting out your debts, have credit questions or want pensions guidance? You can talk to the team live on WhatsApp.
- Add +44 77 0134 2744 to your WhatsApp and send a message.
Citizens Advice Service
The Citizens Advice Service can help you to make the right choices, including help to deal with your debt problems, how to avoid losing your home and how to get your finances back into shape. Citizens Advice also offer advice on Benefits and Tax credits as it's important to make sure that you get all the help that you're entitled to.
03444 111 444
National Debtline
National Debtline has helped millions of people with their debts. They'll talk you through options and give clear advice on how to take back control.
The Debt Advice Foundation is a national debt advice and education charity offering free, confidential support and advice to anyone worried about debt.
0800 622 61 51
Credit Unions
Credit unions can help those who can't get access to ordinary bank products.
Rising cost of Energy
If you are struggling to pay for energy or think you may get into difficulty, contact your supplier.
The energy regulator rules mean suppliers must offer payment plans you can afford and you can ask for ‘emergency credit’ if you use a prepay meter and can’t top up.
Save money off your Gas Bill
Turning down a single setting will make your boiler work more efficiently, saving around £129 a year for the average household. It only takes a few minutes to lower your flow temperature, and it can be changed back instantly. There’s nothing to lose by trying it. Advice from Nesta, the UK's innovation agency for social good.
Walkthrough - Money Saving Boiler Challenge
Local Support Services
https://www.havering.gov.uk/costofliving
Mayor of London - Borough Support
This Hub contains information about benefits, grants and discounts you can get if you are in financial difficulty, from the Mayor of London, the government, your local council, charities and advice centres.
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
The NHS Better Health website has a range of resources, tips and apps available to help with weight management and encourage a nutritious diet.
NHS Digital Weight Management Programme
A GP or pharmacist can refer a person to the NHS Digital Weight Management Programme if the individual comes into the following category:
- They are aged 18 or over.
- They have a BMI greater than 30. (The BMI threshold will be lowered to 27.5 for people from black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds, as we know people from these ethnic backgrounds are at an increased risk of conditions such as Type 2 diabetes at a lower BMI.)
- They have diabetes, high blood pressure, or both.
- They have a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access.
Local Support Services
Healthy Start Programme
Pregnant women and children under four years old may be eligible for free fruit, vegetables, milk and vitamins via the Healthy Start Scheme.
More information on the Healthy Start Scheme and details of how to apply can be found on the website or by calling the Healthy Start Helpline.
Website: https://www.healthystart.nhs.uk/
Healthy Start Helpline: 0345 607 6823
Infant Feeding Cafes and 1-2-1 Support
For general breastfeeding, formula feeding and starting solid foods support, contact via telephone or email.
Telephone: 07812496838
Email: childrenscentres@havering.gov.uk
HENRY - Healthy Families Online Programme
An online 8-week course to gain and increase knowledge on Healthy Exercise and Nutrition in the Really Young from ages 0-5 years.
To find out more and book places, contact by email.
Email: childrenscentres@havering.gov.uk
Gardening and Cooking Food in Havering
Growing and cooking food, and at the same time learning more about where your food comes from, can inspire you and your family to enjoy healthy meals and snacks. In Havering you can visit and volunteer at Bedfords Park Walled Garden. If you’re keen to grow your own food, you might want to apply for an allotment.
Local Weight Support Groups
Local weight loss support groups are run in Havering. You can find a local group by searching at the NHS website.
Self-care and National Support Services
If you think the person you are concerned about is in immediate danger or needs urgent care, please call 999.
Whilst there are some amazing national services available, we recommend a local first approach. A list of local services can be found at the foot of this text.
Not sure which local authority area to choose? If you know a postcode you can check which local authority area here.
Street Link is a national service which can be used by members of the public if they see people sleeping rough. Referrals can be made online or via telephone (0300 500 0914).
Supporting access to primary care
Groundswell have produced and widely circulated small, plastic, credit card-style cards called ‘My Right to Healthcare’. These cards emphasise the person’s right to register and highlight that they may need assistance to complete forms and help with reading and understanding. The cards can be used to remind GP receptionists and other practice staff of the national patient registration guidance from NHS England. The cards are freely available and can be downloaded and printed locally.
Local Support Services
Homelessness - Get help, advice and support | Homelessness | The London Borough Of Havering
In addition to the persons written or verbal consent, try to gather the following information to include on the duty to refer form.
- Person’s name
- Contact details – include a mobile phone number
- Address (if any)
- Household members / Next of Kin – if known
- Any other support needs, health issues or vulnerabilities
While someone can apply to any local authority, they should be made aware that the local authority might refer them to another local authority if they do not have a local connection to the area where they are applying for assistance. Local authorities should not refuse to accept a homeless application because a person does not have a local connection and must still provide emergency accommodation if the person is vulnerable or has significant health and social support needs.
Self-care and National Support Services
The London Damp and Mould Checklist is designed by London’s public health system partners, who have worked together to produce a checklist resource for use by health and social care professionals who visit residential properties as part of their management and care of patients.
It provides a checklist and guidance to support the identification of internal damp and mould, as well as people at risk of poor health due to damp and mould exposure in their home. There is also an emphasis on prevention of damp and mould for all residents.
Where concerns are identified this resource provides guidance for tenants on actions to take in the form of advice, signposting, and template letters to inform local authority housing teams, housing associations, landlords and health services of any concerns.
We would really value your feedback on this resource.
To provide feedback, please email LondonDampandMould@dhsc.gov.uk
Local Support Services
A guide to treating mould in your home (havering.gov.uk)
Mayor of London - Borough Support
The Mayor of London is funding free local advice services for vulnerable Londoners and those on low incomes: Warmer Homes Advice Service in your borough
If a tenant is concerned about a private landlord, they can consider reporting them through the GLA’s rogue landlord process.
Self-care and National Support Services
If someone needs help for a mental health crisis, emergency or breakdown, you should seek immediate expert advice and assessment. It's important to know that support is available, even if services seem busy at the moment because of coronavirus.
Scrolling down to the local listings below will provide you with a crisis line number to use in an emergency for each London borough.
However, if someone’s life is at risk – for example they have seriously injured themselves or taken an overdose and you do not feel that you can keep yourself or someone else safe you should call 999.
A mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone's time.
If you are not able to speak to your local NHS urgent mental health helpline and you need help urgently for a mental health issue, but it's not an emergency, you should call 111 who will tell you the right place to get help.
If you are worried that this person is at risk of suicide, please also see the section for Suicide Prevention.
You can also encourage them to ring:
Samaritans - (All age groups)
Tel: 116 123, open 24 hours a day.
Papyrus - (Young people)
Tel: 0800 068 41 41
Text: 07786209697
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
Opening hours - Mon-Fri: 10am-10pm, weekends: 2pm-10pm & bank holidays: 2pm-5pm
If you're under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill.
Coping during a crisis
The mental health charity Mind has information on ways to help yourself cope during a crisis.
This includes calming exercises and a tool to get you through the next few hours.
Local Support Services
NELFT Mental Health Direct
Website: https://www.havering.gov.uk/info/20073/public_health/565/mental_health_and_wellbeing
Telephone: 0300 555 1000
Self-care and National Support Services
The following resources are available to support people who are experiencing mental health challenges, however if they are in crisis and need urgent access to support, please go to the URGENT MENTAL HEALTH section of MECC Link where you can find local support services for mental health emergencies.
For non-urgent mental health support, encourage the person to contact their GP. Always give reassurances that there are lots of sources for support, however they wish to access and use them.
Scroll to the bottom of the page to see listings of local support services in their borough.
Self Care Resources
- Good Thinking provides digital mental wellbeing support for Londoners. This includes free NHS-approved apps to help you deal with stress, anxiety, low mood and poor sleep.
- Every Mind Matters is an NHS-approved digital hub full of expert advice and practical tips to achieve good mental health.
- The NHS have other self-help tools available, including 5 steps to mental wellbeing.
- Mind 'The charity for better mental health' has an extensive range of self help resources available.
- For Men -CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) offer accredited, confidential and free support to men anywhere in the UK through a helpline and web and webchat service.
Support Services
Adults
Adults can self-refer to Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services. IAPT is a national NHS programme, which offers evidence based psychological therapies or interventions approved by the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). IAPT is primarily for treating people with mild to moderate mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
IAPT treatments are delivered via a stepped care model where patients are initially offered low intensity therapies, such as computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (cCBT) and guided self-help. If these treatments are unsuccessful, or not appropriate for individuals, higher intensity therapies are utilised and include one to one cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT). Please see local support and contact details for further information.
Children and Young People
The Mix is a leading support service that can help young people to take on challenges they are facing - from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs.
0808 0808 4994 (Freephone)
Parents
YoungMinds run a free, confidential parents helpline, which parents/careers can call if they are worried about how a child or young person is feeling or behaving. They also run a group called Parents Say, for parents whose children are accessing Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.
Perinatal
The PANDAS Foundation supports and advises parents who is experiencing a perinatal mental illness. They also inform and guide family members, carers, friends and employers as to how they can support someone who is suffering.
0843 2898401 (0900 - 2000 hrs, 7 days per week)
Carers
The Carers Trust contains helpful guides for carers on relationship management and information on self-care and respite care.
Refugees and asylum seekers
Thrive LDN have produced a number of resources designed to support new arrivals to the UK, including:
- Guidance for supporting the mental health and wellbeing of displaced Ukrainians
- Supporting the mental health and wellbeing of Afghan refugees
- Wellbeing guidance in 36 languages
Good Thinking’s 'Coping with Trauma' workbook outlines seven techniques to help people who have experienced trauma.
Veterans
Veterans Combat Stress is the UK's leading mental health charity for veterans. They offer free, confidential 24-hour support to Service and ex-Service personnel who are experiencing mental health issues, including feeling suicidal.
0800 138 1619
Local Support Services
Talking Therapies (NELFT)
Talking Therapies is a free and confidential NHS service that will work with you to help you feel better. We offer expert support from people who know what you’re experiencing and our highly professional team will introduce you to effective, practical techniques that are proven to work. Individuals can self-refer, or be referred by a medical professional on their behalf.
Website: https://www.talkingtherapies.nelft.nhs.uk/havering
Telephone: 0300 300 1554 (option 2)
Email: haveringtalkingtherapies@nhs.net
Havering CAMHS (NELFT)
Havering CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) offers help to children and young people who are experiencing emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulties. The services are available to families with children & young people from birth to their 18th birthday.
We are a multi-disciplinary team based in a local clinic and offer support in a variety of areas such as assessment of development problems, autism, hyperactivity, depression, and early onset psychosis.
During a child or young person’s development, there may be periods when they or their family’s ability to cope with difficult emotions or behaviour can put extreme pressures on relationships. We want to work with children and young people as early on as possible during these difficulties in order to turn the situation around.
Website: Havering | NELFT NHS Foundation Trust
Telephone: 0300 300 1888
Email: nem-tr.referralsacorncentre@nhs.net
Address: The Acorn Centre, 306 London Rd, Romford, RM7 9NH.
Havering MIND
MIND’s mission is to provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They provide services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
Website: www.haveringmind.org.uk
Telephone: 01708 457040
Email address: reach.us@haveringmind.org.uk
Opening times: Monday – Thursday 9.00am – 4.00pm | Friday 9.00am – 2.30pm
Havering Carers Hub
Havering Carers Hub is a charity that provides information, support (including emotional support), advice, advocacy, and social activities for adults who care for an adult (18+).
Website: www.haveringcarershub.org.uk
Email: info@haveringcarershub.org.uk
Telephone: 01708 961111
Support for People Bereaved or Affected by Suicide
If you have been bereaved or affected by suicide, or know somebody else who has, it can be difficult to know where to go for help.
Havering Council has worked with Barking and Dagenham, and Redbridge, to bring together in one place some information that we hope will make it easier for you to find what support is out there.
You can also talk to your GP who will be able to refer you to services that can support you.
Website: www.lbbd.gov.uk/support-for-people-bereaved-or-affected-by-someones-suicide
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
- The Couch to 5K phone app has been designed to help get people off the couch and running in just 9 weeks.
- The Active 10 phone app show you how how much brisk walking you do and helps to show you how you can fit a ten minute brisk walk into your day. It breaks this brisk walking down into manageable chunks of ten minutes and encourages at least one session every day (which equates to 70 minutes a week). Users can set their own goals and the app encourages people to progress up to 30 brisk minutes of walking per day, to meet the 150 minutes recommended by the Chief Medical Officer
- Why not join a Parkrun in your local area? Did you know that one of the best things about Parkrun and Junior Park run is that you can run, or jog or walk entirely at your own pace. This makes it accessible for those who never could envisage running 2k or 5k and creates an environment where people feel welcome.
Active Travel Toolkit
The Greater London Authority have produced a toolkit to support healthcare professionals to social prescribe active travel.
Local Support Services
Havering Active
Havering Active is a website directory of local sports clubs activities and venues.
It aims to increase physical activity opportunities and encourage the people of Havering to become more physically active.
The website provides information about how and where you can get active in the borough.
Website: http://www.haveringactive.co.uk/
Email: sportsdevelopment@havering.gov.uk
Telephone: 01708 431016
Exercise Referral Scheme
There is an exercise referral scheme in Havering, run by Everyone Active. It is a 12-week scheme that a GP/Practice Nurse or other medical professional can refer on to for support for those living with particular medical conditions who participate in limited physical activity. For more information and to receive a referral, the scheme should be discussed with a medical professional.
Website: Exercise Referral Scheme Havering
Walking for Health Havering
Walking for Health offers short walks over easy terrain that are open to everyone but are especially aimed at those who are least active.
The website provides information about how to get involved.
Website: Walking for Health Havering
Active Travel
Havering provides a variety of resources and support for active travel. Support includes opportunities for cycle training sessions through Cycle Confident. Visit the website for more information.
Website: Cycling and Walking in Havering - Resources & Support
Self-care and National Support Services
Reassure them that sexual health services are confidential, and free of charge in most cases.
Self Care
For information about sexual health, STIs, HIV and contraception visit Sexwise, It Starts With Me or the NHS website.
The Sexual Health Helpline provides advice and information on all aspects of sexual health, call free on 0300 123 7123 (open from 9am-8pm, Monday-Friday and Saturday-Sunday 11am to 4pm). Calls will be treated with sensitivity and in strict confidence.
Contraception Choices is designed to help people decide which method of contraception might suit them best and provides honest information on the advantages and disadvantages of each method.
Community Pharmacies
Emergency hormonal contraception is effective up to five days after sex and is available from most community pharmacies. Some pharmacies may charge for this service, so it is advised to call ahead to check what they offer.
General Practice
If registered with a GP, routine contraception and, in some cases, Long-Acting Reversible methods (such as an Interuterine Device/’coil’ or a contraceptive injection or implant) can be provided. Suggest contacting local practice directly to find out what they can offer.
Support for victims of sexual assault
The Havens provide specialist centres across London for people who have been raped or sexually assaulted. For urgent advice and an initial assessment call 020 3299 6900.
Other local services
Go to the local support section for information on what is available in each borough.
Local Support Services
Online Services
Anyone aged over 16 can register with Sexual Health London for this free, confidential, and discrete sexual health service. Once registered, the service can issue an STI testing kit for people with mild or no symptoms, they can be posted to their home or collected from a clinic. Users take their own samples and post the kit back to the laboratory. Test results are available a few days later and telephone support is provided.
This service requires registering online and is best accessed via a mobile phone for confidentiality, so do encourage the person you are talking with to register.
Specialist Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinics
People who are aged under 16 years and people with serious symptoms that could indicate a sexually transmitted infection are advised to contact a face-to-face clinic. These clinics can also provide a wide range of contraception including Long-Acting Reversible Methods e.g. coils and implants.
Click here to find a clinic via Sexual Health London
HIV prevention and outreach
Do It London provides highly effective treatment and prevention strategies for HIV. The London HIV Prevention Programme hosts information and resources about U=U, PrEP, condoms and a range of HIV testing services across London.
Free condoms for young people
The Come Correct (or C-Card) scheme provides access to free condoms in a variety of locations (called Outlets) across London. Once registered you can collect condoms or get advice from any outlet displaying the Come Correct logo.
Support for victims of sexual assault
The Havens provide specialist centres across London for people who have been raped or sexually assaulted. For urgent advice and an initial assessment call 020 3299 6900.
Self-care and National Support Services
NATIONAL SUPPORT
- Call the free Smokefree National Helpline to speak to a trained, expert adviser on 0300 123 1044. All lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm and Saturday and Sunday 11am to 4pm*.
- Smokefree has lots of free support this includes a smartphone app, email programme or text messages that will keep you focused wherever you are.
- You can also speak to your doctor, pharmacy team or local Stop Smoking Service for expert advice on stop smoking medicines.
SELF CARE
- Download the NHS Smokefree app from itunes or google play
- Get further information from the National Health Service www.nhs.uk/quit
- Consider using e-cigarettes to stop smoking
- Millions have used Smokefree support to help them stop smoking. Choose from an app, email, SMS and face-to-face guidance.
Emphasise that quitting will the best thing they will ever do and the NHS Smokefree service can provide the friendly and helpful support they need to quit for good
Illegal Tobacco
The availability of cheap, illegal tobacco can seriously undermine attempts to stop smoking. Did you know that you can report any sales of illegal tobacco in your community by contacting Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline anonymously on 0808 223 1133, or report it online at http://www.londontradingstandards.org.uk/report-consumer-crime/. Click on our regional resources tab to see more information about how organisations in London are working together on the Stamp It Out campaign and how you can help.
Local Support Services
Specialist stop smoking service
A free stop smoking service with a more tailored and intensive support programme, delivered either face to face within the community or virtual. Havering residents, 18 years + will be offered regular behaviour support alongside free nicotine replacement products and vape starter kits.
To refer yourself to the service, scan the QR code below or complete this form and someone from the team will be in touch with you shortly https://services.thejoyapp.com/en/listings/3906?ref=email
Alternatively, you can contact the service by phone: 020 8724 8018 or email: Healthy.lifestyles@lbbd.gov.uk
Community Pharmacy stop smoking service
A universal service that offers behaviour support and free nicotine replacement products to help residents quit.
The service is available at the following pharmacies in Havering.
- Crescent Pharmacy, 65 Masefield Crescent, Harold Hill RM3 7PB
- Mim Pharmacy, 118 North Street, Romford RM1 1DL
- Asvacare Ltd Pharmacy, 197 Rush Green Road, Romford RM7 0JR
- Ardleigh Green Pharmacy, 100 Ardleigh Green Road, Hornchurch, RM11 2LG
- Williams Dispensing Chemist, 139A Wennington Road, Rainham RM13 9TR
- Orchard Village Pharmacy, Mick Fury House, Lowen Road, Rainham RM13 8HT
Residents can walk into any of the participating pharmacies and make an appointment.
Havering Stop Smoking Service for pregnant women
A free specialist service available to pregnant smokers and those living in the same household as a pregnant woman. Post natal support is also available to new parents.
You can either speak to your midwife to be referred, refer yourself via this link https://services.thejoyapp.com/en/listings/3906?ref=email or call the team directly on 020 8724 8018
Stop Smoking London
Stop Smoking London exists to help Londoners to quit smoking. Across Greater London you can get specialist, personalised help from health advisers over the phone, throughout your 28 day quit journey.
You can call the Stop Smoking London helpline seven days a week and at the following times:
- Monday to Fridays: 9am to 8pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 11am - 4pm
- When you call you’ll speak to one of our advisors, they will talk you through the various options and help you to decide what might work best for you.
Website: https://stopsmokinglondon.com/
Telephone: 0300 123 1044
Resources: https://stopsmokinglondon.com/tools-and-resources
Self-care and National Support Services
Booking an appointment
For those wishing to find out whether they are eligible for a vaccination and how to book an appointment, go back to the Assist section and guide them through.
Local information and support
Specific borough information for local vaccination and support services can be found below.
Local Support Services
Website: https://www.havering.gov.uk/covid19
Telephone: 0800 368 5201 (Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6pm. Saturday and Sunday 11am to 4pm)
Email: covid19support@havering.gov.uk
Havering resident coronavirus helpline
If you, or someone you know, have concerns around care, urgent issues around health and wellbeing or lack of access to supplies including food and medicine please call our free to use helpline:
0800 368 5201
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays 11am to 4pm for emergencies only.
covid19support@havering.gov.uk
Havering business coronavirus helpline
0345 017 0743
Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm. (Line not open on bank holidays)
businessdevelopment@havering.gov.uk
National Guidance
Residents should ensure that all relevant advice provided by the Government, Public Health England and the NHS is followed. This information can be found by using website link below:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): what you need to do - UK Government - https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
NHS Guidance: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
COVID-19 Vaccination Support
Havering have provided a vaccination page which includes information documents about the priority groups and when to expect to be invited as well as delivery, safety and the importance of getting your vaccine.
If you have any questions about the Covid-19 vaccines, start by reading the Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.havering.gov.uk/downloads/download/894/covid_19_vaccine_general_information
Covid-19 Case Studies and Personal Stories:
https://www.havering.gov.uk/info/20191/coronavirus_covid_19/827/coronavirus_vaccinations/2
https://www.havering.gov.uk/info/20191/coronavirus_covid_19/827/coronavirus_vaccinations/3
Test and Trace Support Payment
You are required by law to self-isolate if you test positive for Covid 19 or are contacted by NHS Test and Trace.
To be considered for a payment you have to be working and meet all the following criteria when you have been instructed to isolate:
- Live in the London Borough of Havering.
- Have been asked to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace.
- Be employed (not furloughed) or self-employed.
- Be unable to work from home and will lose income as a result.
- Be currently receiving Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, income-based Employment and Support Allowance, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit and/or Pension Credit.
- Be making a claim within 14 days of the last day of your self-isolation.
If you think you meet all the eligibility criteria, please Go to the DABD Test and Trace Support Payment form
If you do not meet the Test and Trace Support Payment criteria and are struggling financially you may be eligible to claim a Covid Winter Grant payment through Havering’s Emergency Assistance Scheme.
- Apply for help through our emergency scheme
- See what other support we can offer if you are self-isolating
- Read the Test and Trace Support Payment Scheme Policy
Self-Isolation Support
Self-isolation is when you do not leave your home because you have, or might have Covid 19, or you may have been in contact with someone who has tested positive.
To claim a self-isolation support payment you must meet specific criteria such as be working and not furloughed.
Self-isolation helps stop the virus spreading to other people.
https://www.havering.gov.uk/info/20191/coronavirus_covid_19/816/covid_19_self-isolation_support
Support for the Clinically Extremely Vulnerable
From 1 April 2021, although you should still take precautions, you are will no longer be required to shield.
Community Support Hubs
If you are concerned about someone that is struggling to cope at the moment, or concerned about a friend or neighbour, then help is available through a network of Community Support Hubs.
https://www.haveringcommunityhub.com/
Mental Health Support
It’s more important than ever to look after your mental health during these times. You can find a range of help support from Havering’s website: https://www.havering.gov.uk/info/20191/coronavirus_covid_19/767/covid_19_-_support_if_youre_lonely_or_anxious
Support is also available from volunteers in the community support organisations who can put you in touch with people to talk to if you just want a friendly chat.
Bereavement Support
During the global coronavirus pandemic we are facing a tragic loss of life, often under very difficult circumstances. Havering’s website has information about bereavement: https://familyserviceshub.havering.gov.uk/kb5/havering/directory/advice.page?id=PbEF3B4hUE8
If you have been bereaved, or know somebody else who has, it can be difficult to know where to go for help.
Havering Council has worked with Barking and Dagenham, and Redbridge, to bring together in one place some information that we hope will make it easier for you to find what support is out there.
You can also talk to your GP who will be able to refer you to services that can support you.
https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/support-for-people-bereaved-or-affected-by-someones-suicide