COVID-19 Advice & Support for Families
In these unprecedented times it can be overwhelming to be a parent or carer.
You’re not alone and there are plenty of support groups and charities offering information and advice to help us all through the coming weeks.
How to talk to children about coronavirus & school closures
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-51959957
How to look after your family’s mental health during this time
The following websites offer a range of tips and advice:
www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51873799
www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/looking-after-your-mental-health-during-coronavirus-outbreak
www.samaritans.org/ or call – 116123
For online, free support for young people visit www.kooth.com/
If you have concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a child
Contact Hampshire County Council’s Children’s Social Care
Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm, phone 0300 555 1384
At all other times, contact the out-of-hours service, phone 0300 555 1373
Alternative advice and information including online reporting forms can be found here.
Childline offer a mental health toolbox for children and phone/online 121 counselling service as well as safeguarding reporting. Call them on 0800 1111 or visit https://www.childline.org.uk/
If you are experiencing domestic abuse
Call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000247 or visit www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
Pregnancy and babies
The NCT feeding helpline can be contacted on 0300 330 0700
Local family groups
Many local groups are moving online, providing activities or live streaming sessions. Contact individual groups for more info and look through the Fair Oak Facebook page for communication groups.
Education
For the latest information on school closures, exams and support for children eligible for free school meals, visit the Department for Education pages.
