Every live-in carer will be asking questions right now about protecting themselves, their client and still carrying out daily or weekly routines such as collecting medication and shopping. In such a trying time, it is important to know what we can and cannot do, and what other options are available to carers.
Because the coronavirus is such an ever-changing situation it is vital that carers know what support is available to them and the clients they look after.
Should you have any concerns that either you or your client are at risk or have developed symptoms, you should call 111. You should also let them know that you are a carer and have a vulnerable client.
So, can we shop for a client?
If you are over 70 years of age you are classed as a vulnerable adult. You are also vulnerable if you are younger and have underlying health conditions such as respiratory issues.
Going out to shop for yourself and your client may then pose safety questions. If you become infected, you will certainly pass the infection on to your client.
Shopping and collecting medication are classed as essential care for a vulnerable person, so while you are legally allowed to do this, you may want to look at other options.
If you do go shopping for your client there are some things to remember. You must carry your carer ID. This may be in the form of a card or a letter from your agency stating that you are an essential worker.
Can I get medication from the chemist?
Yes, you can. Pharmacies will stay open during normal working hours. You will most likely be asked for identification so make sure you carry it with you.
Pharmacies ask that if you or your client show any symptoms of the virus, that you stay away and call them. They can arrange delivery of medication.
You can also collect medication from a neighbour if they cannot do it for themselves. Again, you must take your ID with you. You must not do this if you have been near a neighbour who has the symptoms.
What about shopping?
Right now, many of the large supermarkets have opening hours for vulnerable adults and carers. These are normally earlier than hours for general public.
You may find that you are limited to not more than two or three items of the same kind and if possible, you should pay by debit card instead of cash as this means less chance of contact with another person.
One thing to be aware of now is that because this is such an uncertain time, there are many unscrupulous people about, particularly when older and vulnerable people are out. Be aware of your surroundings outside any supermarket of people who come closer to you than is allowed.
Do not be afraid to draw attention to such people as several older people have had purses and even shopping forcibly taken from them.
What’s the best way to shop?
By far the best way to do your shopping now is by using an online service. Slots are given as a priority to vulnerable people. Simply open an online account and place your order. You can expect a delivery to the front door and reduce the risk of any infections this way.
Even a local convenience store may be able to deliver food to you, so it is worth checking them out. Sometimes they may allow you to buy more than two items it you need to.
If online shopping is not possible then you can still have groceries delivered to your door. There are several local organisations which have set up volunteer programmes to shop for you and deliver to your door. Again, be aware that some of these may be scams and make sure you go through a trusted organisation.
https://covidmutualaid.org/local-groups/ and https://www.goodgym.org/mission-runs are both trusted groups and can recommend volunteers in your area.
Yet another contact number for any live-in carers who are battling to get supplies is 0800 028 8327.
To sum up
Rather than go shopping yourself it may be better to ask another person to do this for you. This is because your client is vulnerable and at risk.
Trusted friends can be asked to help, as can family. Local pharmacies will deliver medication if you feel you are at risk and vulnerable yourself. Make sure they have the exact delivery address so that they can come straight there and return.
For prescriptions, you should order them at least a week before they are due. Remember that pharmacies are overworked right now and may need extra time.
Most importantly, keep yourself and your client safe, preferably inside at home. Any contact with other people poses a risk now, so the less contact you have, the better for you both.
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