Work and COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world of work for everyone. Below is some key information to help you relating to work and COVID-19

Money, benefits and financial support

Did you know?

You can now access the most up-to-date benefits and support information via their smart phones, using WhatsApp. Access this service by sending ‘Hi’ in a WhatsApp message to 07860 064 422

Working safely during COVID-19

The government guidance remains to work from home if you can. However, if you cannot work from home, you can return to work, but your employer must make arrangements for you to work safely.

Remember, if you, or anyone in your household, develops symptoms of coronavirus, then you must not go to work.

Working from home

If you are able to work from home then you should.
ACAS – Working from Home

Top tips for working from home

  • Stick to a routine and maintain a healthy work/life balance

  • Take plenty of breaks – remember to step away from the screen regularly

  • Keep in touch with your manager and your colleagues – don’t lose out on social interaction

  • Have a dedicated workspace. Read the NHS guidelines to set up your workspace correctly and talk to your employer about reasonable adjustments if you need to

  • Boundaries – try as much as possible not to mix home and work. Use flexible working if possible, and remember to switch off at the end of the day


Useful links

Looking for work during the pandemic

If you have lost your job due to the pandemic or are thinking about looking for work, there are still plenty of opportunities and lots of support out there.

  • Find and apply for jobs using the Find a Job website

  • Find free training to develop your transferable skills with the Skills Toolkit

  • The National Careers Service provide information, advice and guidance to help you make decisions on learning, training and work.

  • Feed the Nation is a nationwide recruitment campaign to support the UK’s essential services, including food supply, retail and delivery

  • Job Help – support for jobseekers from the DWP. You can find hints and tips on applying for jobs and ideas about jobs you may never have thought of.

Childcare

If you need to take time off work to look after your children or dependants, you might be able to:

Looking after your mental health while at work

Whether you’re working from home or from your usual place of work, it’s important to look after your wellbeing and maintain a good work/life balance

The Access to Work Mental Health Support Service is a confidential service available at no charge to any employees with depression, anxiety, stress or other mental health issues affecting their work.

Every Mind Matters
 is the dedicated NHS Mental Health and Wellbeing website with expert advice and practical tips to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing.

Take a look at our webinars about staying well and managing anxiety

NHS Approved Helplines

Your rights

Rest of the UK

Scotland

Wales

Northern Ireland

waf

Parenting and employment

2 2Seas

PATH – PerinAtal menTal Health – is part of the Interreg VA 2Seas programme and receives funding from the European Regional Development Fund.

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