Covid helpline extended in Manchester as rates surge and public health bosses warn of new wave - 'don't suffer in silence'

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

'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. READ MORE “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.