'We’re still here' - that’s the message from Manchester’s public health chief as the city moves to extend its helpline for those suffering the effects of the pandemic.
The extension of Manchester's dedicated Covid-19 helpline, open seven days a week, comes as Covid rates are again surging in the region, and Greater Manchester's lead director of public health warns that 'we are seeing another wave' of the virus.
The helpline is staffed with a nursing team, with translation available, and the team will help with any topic related to Covid – from, testing and vaccinations, to overall health, social and wellbeing advice, including issues around loneliness and anxiety.
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“They are a great team and they want to help people,” says David Regan, Manchester borough's director of public health.
“That help doesn’t just have to be medical – it could be getting advice on any range of social, financial or wellbeing questions that have arisen during the pandemic.
“We also work on the basis that the team will always try to support as much as possible during one call - or at least direct the caller to where they will find the right help in the most effective way.”
Since the government lifted legal restrictions linked to Covid-19, there are some who may feel more vulnerable – for a range of reasons – as they navigate the city again, according to Manchester City Council.
“We don’t want anyone to suffer in silence, we want to help those who need it,” David continues. “This city is well known for its caring approach and we all need to remember those who are feeling less confident as they go out again.
“If we all continue with the key safety behaviours, including wearing a mask when appropriate, it will help the entire city. And, once again I give my thanks for continuing to look after one another.”
Councillor Joanna Midgley, deputy leader with responsibility for health and care at Manchester City Council, said: "I urge people to ring the helpline if you are concerned any aspect of your, or your family's wellbeing, linked to the pandemic. It's such an important first step and concerns will be taken seriously."
Dr Manisha Kumar, GP and Medical Director at Manchester Health and Care Commissioning added: "Our approach has to be holistic, working with the people of this city, so that physical, mental and social support are intrinsically connected."
The extension of the helpline follows 'worrying' trends for Greater Manchester, as Covid-19 cases rise again and another variant - named BA.2. - continues to circulate.
Asked if we should be expecting another wave, Professor Kate Ardern, the region's lead director of public health, told the Manchester Evening News : "I think that's we're seeing again, because we're creating the conditions, unfortunately.
"If you let the guard down, you're creating the conditions where the virus can evolve."
Meanwhile, with 'significant social mixing, waning vaccine immunity, particularly people who had their boosters early, removal of all measures, and people being less cautious in their behaviour', the rates could continue to rise dramatically, she says.
The Manchester Covid-19 helpline is a free service on 0800 840 3858 (or text 07890 036 892). It is open 7 days a week from 9am to 5pm and is staffed by a nursing team with translation facilities.
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