Coronavirus update
How to get help at this time
If you are homeless, experiencing mental health issues or social isolation you can still turn to Porchlight for help during this uncertain time.
We are continuing to provide our services while adapting the way we work to follow the latest official advice and guidance.
If you are a Porchlight client, we will be in touch with more information about how we can continue to support you. If your usual key worker is unable to contact you, another worker will contact you to provide ongoing support.
You can call our free helpline on 0800 567 7699. It can connect you with support if you are experiencing mental health issues or social isolation during this difficult time. If you are currently homeless, at risk of becoming homeless, or you're worried about somebody in this situation, you can also call our helpline.
Please be assured that our priority, as always, is on the safety and wellbeing of our clients we support across Kent, as well as our staff and volunteers.
Coronavirus advice
This is the NHS advice on coronavirus. As more information emerges, recommendations may change. You can read the latest NHS guidance on their website.
Coronavirus symptoms – what to look out for
- The most common symptoms of coronavirus are a continuous cough and/or high temperature (37.8 degrees).
- If you have these symptoms - however mild - stay at home and don’t leave your house for 7 days from when your symptoms started. Do not go to hospital, or to your doctor’s surgery.
- If you are a Porchlight resident and are experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact your coach, housing assistant or nearest Porchlight hostel.
If you need medical advice, please go online to NHS 111 or call 111 if you do not have internet access. In an emergency, call 999.
General advice to stop the spread of coronavirus
- Wash your hands more often than usual - for 20 seconds using soap and hot water.
- Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing and blowing your nose, or after being in public areas. Use hand sanitiser if that’s all you have access to.
- When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve. If you have used a tissue, throw it in the bin immediately afterwards. You must now wash your hands or use a hand sanitising gel.
- Clean and disinfect regularly used surfaces and objects to reduce the risk of passing the infection to other people.
If you’re feeling worried, anxious or are in an abusive relationship
If you are feeling worried or anxious, the Mental Health Foundation website has advice about looking after your mental health.
Release the Pressure runs a free helpline and has online advice. You can call them on 0800 107 0160 or visit their website.
If you are in an abusive relationship, Bright Sky has an app that can support you. You can download the Bright Sky app on the website.
Avoid coronavirus scams
Be aware of scammers trying to sell you fake coronavirus testing kits or vaccines. Here's what to look out for.