Coronavirus (COVID-19): Support for people
Contents
- Overview
- Testing
- Support for people
- Businesses
- Vaccine
- News and messages from the Council
- Council services and schools
- Volunteering - how you can help
Support for people
There have been a number of support services set up to help support the people of South Tyneside during this time. Many services are also continuing to run and help people during this time.
Most at risk people
- Support for most at risk people
- Clinically vulnerable people
- Domestic abuse support
- List of local support organisations
Advice about support available when self-isolating
The Public Health team at South Tyneside Council is sending SMS text messages and emails to people who have been asked to self-isolate. The message will direct people to the support that is available to them.
The text message will come from: C19-SUPPORT
The email will come from: c19.support@notifications.service.gov.uk
These messages are genuine and do not contain malicious links. But always be vigilant when opening unknown links. Never give banking or personal details to anyone you don't know or trust. This information is valuable so make sure you protect it.
Financial help and crisis support
- Test and Trace Support Payment
A £500 lump sum payment for people on low incomes, who are unable to work because they have been asked to self-isolate - Hardship Fund
Support for residents in financial crisis - Council Tax Support
All working age households who receive Council Tax Support will benefit from up to £150 hardship relief against their 2021/2022 Council Tax bill. If you do not receive Council Tax Support but think you are entitled to it, you can apply online. - Free concessionary travel to vaccination centres (Nexus)
Concessionary Travel pass holders can travel free on public transport before 9.30am if they are going to or from a coronavirus vaccination appointment - Food banks
The Council has increased its support to food banks
Free school meals
Care, health and wellbeing
- Check you have everything you need to support you if you need to self isolate
- Recovering from COVID-19
- Mental health support
- Support to stop smoking
- How to order repeat prescriptions online (NHS)
- Informal carers - information, advice and support
Staying safe
Housing
- Homelessness and rough sleeping (South Tyneside Homes)
- Support and information for South Tyneside Homes tenants
Migrant communities
We can provide help if you:
- Currently have no immigration status awarded by the Home Office
- Have no access to benefits (known as no recourse to Public Funds)
- Are homeless
- Need assistance or accommodation
Call the South Tyneside Homes Housing Options team on 0300 123 6633.
If you find yourself without accommodation call:
- 0800 141 2645 (freephone) - Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm, and Friday 9am to 4.30pm
- 0191 456 2093 - out of office hours
Badges for social distancing and face covering exemptions
Optional badges are available on the Government website for people who:
- have difficulties or concerns in maintaining social distancing - GOV.UK: Social distancing cards and badges
- are exempt from wearing a face covering - GOV.UK: Exemption from face covering badge
Food and buying groceries
- If you are worried about visiting the supermarket, you can do your shopping online and get it delivered or collect it. For more information see support with food shopping
- If you are self-isolating, ask your family, friends or neighbours to pick up shopping for you
- If you struggle to make meals or get shopping, there are cafes and companies who will deliver meals to your door (please check their food hygiene rating and if they are Covid secure)