First Minister launches Looking Out for Each Other campaign in Wales

First Minister Mark Drakeford will today (Sunday 22 March 2020) launch a new campaign about how to help people who are staying at home because of coronavirus.

The Looking Out for Each Other campaign focuses on the small things we can all do to help each other during the pandemic.

It provides practical guidance about how everyday tasks, like running errands or simply staying in touch, can be done safely, without physical contact to minimise the risk of contracting coronavirus. It will also share information about how to stay mentally and physically active.

A new online hub – gov.wales/safehelp – will also be launched today and will include a ‘helping hand’ card, which can be downloaded and put through the letterboxes of neighbours to offer help to those who are isolating. 

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “I’ve seen so many good things happening, from online choir groups to grocery deliveries, as people across Wales go out of their way to help others with their everyday needs. 

“Communities have pulled together to support neighbours in this time of need. Today, we’re asking others to follow the shining example by doing their bit if they’re able to.”

“We have a long history of helping each other in times of need – it’s what we do. If we work together, we can get through this together.”

This week, the Welsh Government will be writing to those people who are at very high risk of developing a serious illness if exposed to coronavirus with specific advice about how they can protect themselves.

The First Minister added: “We know this is an incredibly worrying time for everyone, especially those who have a higher risk of developing a serious illness if exposed to the virus.

“We are doing everything possible to keep Wales safe, but also these groups safe during the outbreak. The public’s support in this effort is absolutely vital.”

What you can do to look out for each other

If you’re symptom free, not in an at-risk group and can support people who are staying at home, there are five simple ways you can help, as long as you do so safely:

• Help with food shopping. You can do this in person and leave groceries on the doorstep, or help those who aren’t familiar with shopping online
• Run errands. Some people will need help collecting medication. Others may need support ordering so they don’t run out.
• Keep in touch. Staying at home for a long time can be a lonely experience. Just saying hello and regularly checking in over the phone or online is important
• Encourage people to stay mentally and physically active. Swap suggestions about how people you are supporting can keep themselves busy.
• Join local online communities. Encourage people to join local chat forums and Facebook groups so they can keep in touch with their community and see that they’re not alone.

Visit gov.wales/safehelp to find simple tips and advice to safely help someone who is staying at home because of coronavirus. This might be a friend, family member, neighbour or person in your community.

Download the ‘Helping hand’ card, fill it in, and share it with your community so those in need know who they can turn to.

Staying at home

• Visit the staying at home guidance on gov.wales if you are at-risk, showing symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) or living with someone who is.
• Download the ‘Helping hand’ card, fill it in, and place it outside your door.