On Thursday (18th March) local authorities took part in Hertfordshire County Council’s Self-Isolation Support Day initiative.
Teams visited 900 homes to help individuals as they self-isolated after testing positive for COVID-19, or had been asked to do so by NHS Test and Trace.
The aim was to ensure the welfare of residents, and draw their attention to support available via the HertsHelp service.
HertsHelp is a network of community organisations that can assist with practical issues, such as collecting shopping or delivering prescriptions.
In an interview with Vibe 107.6 FM Jim McManus, Director of Public Health for Hertfordshire County Council, stated the support day was “an attempt to highlight how people can self-isolate successfully”.
He noted self-isolating can be difficult for many people and believes it is important for residents to know that help is out there, should they need it.
Mr McManus continued:
“Given that we’re on the road out of lockdown one of the things that will make a real difference to stopping the virus spreading, is getting people to self-isolate.
“If you get 900 people self-isolating who should be doing that, then that’s a wave of infection we’ve stopped.
“The sign from today is that most people are doing the right thing… so there’s every possible reason to be positive and to be cheerful about where we’re going at the minute.”
The Director of Public Health advised that residents “must keep going” and continue following the guidelines, to ensure the county remained on its current trajectory.
The number of COVID-19 cases in Hertfordshire are coming down with figures now at around the same level as last September, Mr McManus revealed. Additionally the death rate has also fallen.
The next easing of lockdown rules under the Government’s roadmap for England takes place on 29th March, with the current stay at home order due to end.
People will still be advised to continue working from home where possible, and to minimise journeys outside their local area.
Individuals will be permitted to meet outdoors in accordance with the rule of six, and outside sports facilities can reopen as well.
HertsHelp can be reached by telephoning 0300 123 4044, or email info@hertshelp.net
For further details visit: www.hertshelp.net
Other agencies are also on hand to help anyone who is self-isolating, such as the Hertfordshire Domestic Abuse Helpline on 08 088 088 088 or Drug and Alcohol Recovery Services on 0800 652 3169.
The Top Five Films and TV Shows to Watch this Week (17th - 21st February 2025)
Be amazed by Mystery & Wonder at Watersmeet Theatre
The Top Five Films and TV Shows to Watch this Week (10th - 14th February 2025)
New Hope's Stadium Sleep Out: A Night to Raise Awareness for Homelessness
