Coronavirus: Southsea resident sets up Facebook support group for people affected by Covid-19

More than 1,000 people have joined the Portsmouth Coronavirus Support Group since it was set up by Charlotte Gerada, from Southsea, on Friday.

The social media forum is being used to pair up self-isolating or at-risk residents with healthy people who can help them with tasks like shopping, picking up prescriptions and delivering hot meals.

Charlotte, 31, said the group also hopes to help city food banks by distributing food parcels amid the outbreak and be an emotional and social outlet for affected residents.

‘Friends in London had seen similar groups being set up and I saw we didn't have one in Portsmouth, so this follows the same model,’ she said.

‘The main issue is people getting access to food and other products because of panic buying.

‘If you’re self-isolating and have few friends and family you’re out on a limb if you can't get those things.

‘But as well as providing practical support, I want to give emotional support by creating a shared space for people to talk about the issues they are facing and what they're going through.

‘We can even get creative by using services like Skype to build a community many of us feel like we don’t have anymore.

‘It’s about reviving that culture of checking in on your neighbours to see if they're okay.’

Some members of the group have already used it as a way keep each other updated on what items are in and out of stock in local supermarkets.

Meanwhile others have taken to sharing symptoms and the latest advice from government on how to reduce the risk of coronavirus.

Charlotte, who is the Labour Party's community organiser for the south east, added: ‘This is going to be a very difficult situation for a lot of people and the only way we’re going to get through it is by working together and supporting one another.’

SEE ALSO: Coronavirus: First case of Covid-19 in Portsmouth is confirmed as UK total rises to 1,140

The group’s launch comes after government said volunteers could be needed to carry out caring duties during the peak of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Charlotte has vowed to keep the non-political group hyperlocal, with hopes others may be set up by residents of the surrounding areas.

The plan garnered praise from Liberal Democrat leader of Portsmouth City Council, councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson.

He said: ‘People helping each other in the community is really good and I would be very supportive or anybody trying to help their neighbours at this time.’

To join the group, go to facebook.com/groups/203940460951601

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But.similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Should I avoid public places?

Most people who feel well can continue to go to work, school and public places and should only stay at home and self isolate if advised by a medical professional or the coronavirus service.

What should I do if I feel unwell?

Don’t go to your GP but instead call NHS 111 or look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next.

When to call NHS 111

NHS 111 should be used if you feel unwell with coronavirus symptoms, have been in a country with a high risk of coronavirus in the last 14 days or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS