 Weekly Covid-19 statistics
The weekly case rate per 100,000 people in the borough currently sits at 339.2 (up to 2 October). Cases have been rising steadily since mid-September, and the country is learning to live with the virus, but we must continue to be cautious when out and about in the community.
If you are planning a fun-filled weekend where you’ll be around people, it’s worth taking a Lateral Flow Test even if you have no symptoms to check you don’t have Covid-19. We have many mobile testing sites in the borough, operating a walk-in service for all residents. You can find your nearest site here.
 Have you booked your Booster jab appointment?
The NHS has started the roll out of the Covid-19 Booster jab for the most vulnerable citizens, it’s worth us reminding you who is eligible to receive their jab now. If you are a frontline health or social care worker, you can book your Covid-19 booster vaccine dose online. If you have been contacted by the NHS and you are either:
You’ll only be able to book an appointment for a booster dose if it’s been at least six months (180 days) since your second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.
If you are not a frontline health or social care worker, please wait to be contacted by the NHS before booking your booster jab. Please note, you may be contacted and asked to book online or at a local NHS service such as your GP surgery. For more information on the Covid-19 Booster vaccine, visit the NHS website.
 Free broadband for jobseekers on income benefits
If you are out of work, you may be able to get six months’ worth of FREE broadband from TalkTalk. The internet service provider is working with Central Government and Jobcentre Plus to support jobseekers.
To check if you’re eligible, please speak to your Jobcentre Plus work coach in the first instance. If you are eligible, you will be given a referral code to give to TalkTalk. No contract or credit checks are required.
This national programme aims to tackle digital exclusion and remove barriers to employment. With the pandemic having made it harder for some people to access training and support, the new scheme will give jobseekers across the UK free access to high-quality broadband.
 Citizens Advice Wokingham takes to the road
Citizens Advice Wokingham launched its 'Mobile Advice Unit’, called ‘Advice on Wheels’ today. It will begin taking to the streets of Wokingham Borough, giving advice and information services directly into communities. The charity’s new advice unit has three key aims, which are to:
- Support communities across the borough facing increased issues of hardship and deprivation to help people ‘make ends meet’ and get the support that they’re entitled to.
- Increase access to its free, confidential, and impartial advice and information services to all parts of Wokingham Borough.
- Work with other charities and services to help people get the most effective support for their issues, including local domestic abuse charities and foodbanks
To see how Citizens Advice Wokingham can help you and your family, visit the website.
 World Mental Health Day on Sunday
This Sunday 10 October is World Mental Health Day; an opportunity to empower people to look after their own mental health and provide support to others. The Covid-19 pandemic has had a major impact on people’s mental health – below are some tips to help with your mental health this autumn:
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Get into a routine: Having structure in our day gives us a sense of control and purpose. Factor in a regular bedtime, mealtimes, work, leisure activities and rest.
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Get outside in the fresh air: As the days get shorter, it’s important to make time in your day to get out in the daylight and enjoy the fresh air.
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Get the right nutrition: What you eat can affect your mental health, not just your physical. Try to increase your intake of fruit and vegetables during the autumn and winter months.
Visit our emotional and mental health webpage for more advice and guidance, including a list of local and national support services.
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