A new service is now available to support Portsmouth residents with coronavirus-related queries and signpost to relevant information and support.
It can also help residents who have tested positive for COVID-19 or who have symptoms of COVID-19 and would like some guidance on recommended next steps.
The service is being operated by Portsmouth City Council and operates on Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4.30pm and Friday, 9am to 4pm.
The team are trained to advise residents on the steps they can take to help limit the spread of coronavirus, including what to do if they have tested positive or have symptoms. They can also offer advice on testing, vaccination, support for those experiencing Long Covid, and signposting to wellbeing and financial support.
Cllr Jason Fazackarley, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, said: “It’s important that we continue to provide advice and support to residents regarding coronavirus and the steps we can take to help ourselves and others stay safe and well. Although restrictions have been lifted, there is still guidance in place, and we know that residents will still have questions and concerns – I’m pleased that we have a dedicated team who can help.”
Helen Atkinson, Director of Public Health at Portsmouth City Council, added: ‘I’m pleased we’ve been able to get this local service up and running to support our residents at this critical time as we adjust to living with COVID-19. We encourage residents to reach out for guidance or support, particularly anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or is experiencing symptoms and needs advice on what they should do next.”
To contact the service, residents can call the telephone helpline on 023 9260 6562 or email covidsupport@portsmouthcc.gov.uk. A telephone translation service is available to residents whose first language is not English.
More information can be found at: www.portsmouth.gov.uk/covid-19-support/
