Coronavirus is a virus that causes an illness called COVID-19. It affects people’s lungs and airways. For most people, it causes mild symptoms while for others it can be more serious and require hospital treatment.
As an organisation supporting many vulnerable and older people, we are taking this virus and its associated risks seriously. We are following the situation closely as it unfolds and will continue to follow guidance as issued by the government and appropriate authorities.
As you will appreciate, we must consider the health and safety of all involved in our organisation, including clients, volunteers and staff members. We will be taking sensible precautions and ask that you do the same.
We can all help to protect ourselves, and others, by sticking to the following advice:
- Washing hands regularly and thoroughly (for about 20 seconds, with soap and hot water – use a sanitiser gel if soap and water is not available)
- Use a tissue for coughs and sneezes and then throw the tissue away (if you don’t have a tissue, use the crook of your elbow)
- Try to avoid touching your eyes nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- Where possible, avoid close contact with people who are unwell with flu like symptoms.
If you attend one of our day centres, please do make use of the antibacterial gel dispensers around the centres, as well as washing your hands regularly.
The main symptoms of the coronavirus are:
- High temperature
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
“These are similar to lots of other illnesses such as colds or flu, and if you have these symptoms it doesn’t necessarily mean you have coronavirus. However, if you feel unwell, or have these symptoms we would advise you to seek medical advice and (if accessible) to use the NHS 111 online service, if symptoms deteriorate, then we would advise you to then call NHS 111– please do not go to your GP, pharmacy or hospital. We would also ask you to stay away from our day centres or clubs, at the very least until you have sought medical advice. “
You should also call NHS 111 if you have been in contact with someone who has coronavirus, or if you have been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus in the last 14 days.
If you are not sure and would like some general / up to date advice about coronavirus, there is also a Free NHS Helpline you can call, on 0800 028 2816.
This is an emerging situation with constant updates. Any decisions regarding the closure of our services will be communicated to you as quickly as possible. However we would like to stress that, if we are unable to continue our normal services (or if you need to stay at home and are unable to access our normal services) we will do our utmost to provide support and company in other ways.
It is a challenging and concerning time for us all and we are doing our best to take sensible steps and support all the people we work with. Please do not hesitate to call us on 0141 221 9924 if you are concerned about anything in this letter.
With very best wishes,
Team @ Glasgow’s Golden Generation
