West Devon Borough Council's Covid-19 Update

Important Update

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 19 June 2020

Stay Alert > Control The Virus > Save Lives

Our Community Support During Covid

Last week we told you about how we've been working along with our colleagues across Devon councils in our collective response to the coronavirus pandemic. 

This week, we'd like to share what we have been doing ourselves to help West Devon to ensure our residents, communities and businesses have been well informed, supported, and protected during this difficult time. 

Here are just some of the things we have done to help our community.

West Devon Infographic

Help for Hospitality Businesses

Cafe

We are supporting hospitality businesses to get back on their feet with temporary permission to extend outdoor seating area for cafés and pubs.

Extending outdoor seating areas, or putting in place new outdoor seating, are among the ways cafes and pubs can help customers to maintain social distancing.

Interested? Find out more.


Domestic Abuse Help for Older People

Older Person's Toolkit

There has been a rise in cases of domestic abuse since the coronavirus pandemic, so a toolkit to help raise awareness about violence in older people's relationships, is now available.

The ability to recognise the signs of abuse and to be aware of options available are some of the key aspects of the toolkit, which will improve safety and personal wellbeing.  

It is important to remember that relationships are not always between couples. Domestic abuse can happen within any family dynamic, regardless of age or gender.

If you are being abused, or if you have any concerns that an older person you know may be at risk of abuse, use the toolkit to find help

Police have dedicated domestic abuse officers who will help and advise you, call 101 for help and guidance or email 101@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

Always call 999 in an emergency.


Look After Your Mental Health

Anxious man

It's not unusual to feel worried or helpless at the moment. Try and share how you are feeling and the things you are doing to cope with family and friends. It could help them too.

If you don’t feel able to do that, there are people you can speak to via NHS recommended helplines or you could find support groups online to connect with.

Good-quality sleep makes a big difference to how you feel mentally and physically, so it’s important to get enough.

Try to maintain regular sleeping patterns and keep good sleep hygiene practices – like avoiding screens before bed, cutting back on caffeine and creating a restful environment. The Every Mind Matters sleep page provides practical advice on how to improve your sleep.


RNLI to Increase Lifeguard Cover

RNLI Perranporth

Now that lockdown restrictions have eased, the RNLI has rolled out lifeguard patrols on another 22 beaches in the South West.

Find out which beaches will have RNLI cover from Saturday.

If you are planning to visit the coast, always remember to:

  • Have a plan - check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage
  • Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water
  • Don’t allow your family to swim alone
  • Don’t use inflatables
  • FLOAT TO LIVE if you fall into the water unexpectedly. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float
  • In an emergency dial 999, and ask for the Coastguard

Find out more from the RNLI


Coronavirus Information Points