19th March 2020

COVID-19 – Information about the current Coronavirus Pandemic

Our candidates health and wellbeing has always been a top priority here at Engage and in these unprecedented times we are working hard to provide as much information and clarity for our candidates and schools as possible.

COVID-19 is caused by a new strain of coronavirus that has not been encountered before. The virus affects the lungs and airways of the infected individual causing mild or moderate symptoms in most cases. In rare circumstances more severe symptoms that may require hospitalization could occur. Because coronavirus is a new illness, we do not have exact information on how it spreads. This means it’s essential for every individual to follow the current guidelines and keep up to date with official advice. The NHS websites’ dedicated COVID-19 page gives information about what you can do to protect yourself, your family and individuals that you have close contact with.

Symptoms Of Coronavirus

The current advice from the NHS states that you should stay at home and self-isolate if you display any of the symptoms of a coronavirus infection. Symptoms include:

		Fever – classified as a temperature of 37.8° or more
		A new, persistant cough
		Shortness of breath

Self-Isolation Advice

• If you have symptoms, you should stay at home for 7 days
• If you live with other people, you should all stay home for 14 days after from the first symptom appearing in the household

Find the most up-to-date information on isolation on the NHS website here.

Preventing The Spread Of Infection

The government has issued some advice on keeping the spread of COVID-19 to a minimum. These measures should be taken by all individuals, whether showing symptoms or not.

	.	Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when coughing or sneezing and bin immediately
	.	Wash your hands at regular intervals, when entering or leaving a new space
	.	Use hand sanitizer where available
	.	Avoid close contact with individuals who display any symptoms. Try to practise social distancing, avoiding contact with crowds and refrain from visiting pubs, clubs or resturants
	.	Use online services and apps to contact your GP surgery or other NHS services as doctor surgeries will be overwhelmed with callers over the coming weeks

Ways To Help In Your Community

As we approach the peak of the pandemic it will be essential for communities to work together to protect older and more vulnerable individuals. If you are not in isolation and it is safe and possible to do so, here are some ways you could reach out to your local community to offer assistance.

• Stay in contact with elderly relatives and neighbours using the phone or notes through their door
• Offer to pick up supplies and drop on neighbours doorsteps if they have been isolated or are unable to get out of the house
• Be kind online and avoid scaremongering – only share news or updates from legitimate sources and remember that some people find constant pandemic updates triggering for their mental health
• Consider maintaining support for contractors that you usually work with who may be suffering financially when their usual clients are working from home or in isolation.

We are aware that the situation is changing rapidly.  The suggestions above are as per guidelines issued on 19th March 2020. We will endeavour to continue keeping you informed of any changes.

For the most up to date information on the coronavirus outbreak, please visit the NHS dedicated website.

If you are experiencing any anxiety or would like to speak to someone, you can contact our partners’ Education Support for free on 08000 856 148 or by emailing support@edsupport.org.uk, to access a range of free counselling and wellbeing support.