CORONAVIRUS / COVID-19 (update 24.3.20)
(24.3.20): Hi - following the latest Government advice I am currently offering either Online appointments (via Skype) or Walking sessions (Haywards Heath). I've taken the decision to stop indoors sessions for now to minimise the chance of spreading Coronavirus.
Please also read of the below points about therapy attendance - these would apply to a walking session. You are welcome to get in touch.
Very best wishes.
Steve
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28.2.20: A precautionary note on COVID-19 for clients and anyone who is considering getting in touch and arranging to meet.
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COVID-19 has been in the news a great deal, and although there are relatively few confirmed cases in the UK it is reasonable to assume the virus will spread further. Some people have asked if they should come to therapy sessions if feeling unwell. It's a good question, and one that obviously applies to me too in terms of what I should do if I begin to feel unwell or receive a diagnosis. Please note I am currently just fine!
Having read the advice from the Government for schools and other educational settings (where people mingle in close proximity), I would ask that:
- If you feel unwell – particularly if experiencing a cough, difficulty in breathing, fever/high temperature - please refrain from coming to therapy. If you can, please let me know via text/email etc.
- If I feel unwell – and if I experience the above symptoms – I will cancel all face-to-face therapy for the duration of the potential incubation period for COVID-19, which is between 2 and 14 days. In these circumstances I will try to let all clients know via email and text where possible.
Should the above circumstances come up, I will do what I can to offer sessions over Skype/Facetime to those who would like to do that.
Best wishes,
Steve
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If you are concerned about symptoms you are experiencing, call NHS 111 service or contact your GP surgery. Some general points here on steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
There are general principles anyone can follow to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:
- washing your hands often - with soap and water, or use alcohol sanitiser if handwashing facilities are not available. This is particularly important after taking public transport
- covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in a bin. See Catch it, Bin it, Kill it
- people who feel unwell should stay at home and should not attend work or any education or childcare setting
- use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available
- avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
- avoid close contact with people who are unwell
- clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
- if you are worried about your symptoms or those of a child or colleague, please call NHS 111. Do not go directly to your GP or other healthcare environment
- see further information on the Public Health England Blog and the NHS UK website.