Self-Isolating

Covid infection rates are rising fast in Reading. We all know the rules around hand, face, space; but another important rule is to self-isolate when you need to.  Less than 20% of people in England self-isolate when asked to do so, according to documents released by SAGE, the Government's scientific advisory group for emergencies, last month. Self-isolating means staying at home and not going out even to go shopping or take exercise.  It's the right thing to do to keep people safe in Reading - and if you've tested positive or been told to self-isolate by NHS test and trace, it's also a legal requirement. If you are struggling to self-isolate, there is help available. 
 
You should self-isolate when:

• You have symptoms of coronavirus, even if the symptoms are mild. You should self-isolate and get a test. You can stop self-isolating if you get a negative test result. 
• You get a positive coronavirus test result. You should continue to isolate for 14 days. 
• You live with someone who has symptoms or who has tested positive.
• Someone in your support bubble has symptoms or has tested positive.
• You are told to self-isolate by the NHS test and trace service, or the NHS Covid-19 app. 
• You are returning to the UK from a country with a high coronavirus risk - you can find out more on the Gov.UK website

• Don't be afraid to ask for help - we have seen throughout the pandemic that our communities have come together to support each other when needed. If you need a friend or neighbour to help with the shopping or provide a bit of support, then don't be afraid to ask. 
• If you are on a low income and face a loss of income due to isolating, you may be entitled to a Self-Isolation Support Payment. To find out more and claim the payment visit our website.  
• If you have urgent needs for food or medicine, or need other help such as debt advice or befriending, contact the One Reading Community Hub.

You can find out more about self-isolating on the NHS website.
 
Please help us do the right thing for Reading. Self-isolate if you need to and stop the spread of the virus. Thank you. 

Half-Term Message

Half term is approaching. We hope you all enjoy the break safely.  Please remember infection rates are rising fast locally. Don’t let this holiday become a super-spreader event. Do the right thing for Reading. Stick to the guidelines. Help stop the spread.

Remember these 5 important pieces of advice:

• Wash your hands
• Wear a face-covering where possible
• Keep a safe distance from others
• Don’t meet up with more than 6 people, indoors or outdoors (including children)
• Isolate at home if you need to

Check the rules at www.gov.uk/coronavirus

 
For a list of activities on offer locally click here.

Reading Museum is open again and they have some great half-term activities on offer for all the family in a Covid safe environment.

Little Ankle Biters Berkshire is also a great resource for local activities and things to do.

For virtual entertainment why not check out Reading Culture Live

Enjoying Halloween Safely

• Carve or decorate pumpkins with members of your household.
• Decorate your house, apartment or living space with fun or spooky decorations.
• Admire Halloween decorations at a distance – why not do a local Halloween scavenger hunt. Give kids lists of Halloween-themed things to look for while they walk outdoors. Reward your kids with your own sweets.
• Try a scavenger-hunt-style candy search with your household members in or around your home rather than going trick or treating at neighbours’ houses.
• Have a virtual Halloween costume contest.
• Host a Halloween movie night with people you live with.