These are testing times for everyone but especially if you have an underlying medical condition that makes you vulnerable.
We’ve put together a list of some useful resources that may help you to get through this period.
Support as an extremely vulnerable person
The UK Government has a webpage where you can register if you have a medical condition that makes you extremely vulnerable to coronavirus. For example, you’ll be able to ask for help getting deliveries of essential supplies like food.
If you’re not sure whether your medical condition makes you extremely vulnerable, register anyway.
This service is free. You can register yourself, or for someone else.
Main Supermarkets
As I’m sure you’re aware, getting supplies online via the big supermarkets can be quite a trial these days with queues to just get on websites and available slots few and far between.
The Independent newspaper has a page with the up to date situation on most of the big players.
Alternative Online Shopping
Buying local has always been a good mantra, and it’s more than relevant now. Check your local suppliers of fresh veg and meat to see if they are now offering delivery services. This can be a good way of getting fresh produce without the hassle of having to go to a big supermarket.
Blogger Eat Like A Girl has compiled a great list of independent food retailers that can deliver throughout the UK. There’s a great selection but be warned some of these are probably more expensive than you might use for your regular shop, but if you can afford it, it might be a good choice and might create some availability for those who can’t afford them.
There is also a delivery company, Beelivery who are to groceries like JustEast, Uber Eats, Deliveroo are to take-aways. Again, you’ll pay a premium but they may be handy for certain things and if you’re desperate.
For foodstuff that has a longer shelf life, pet foods or other household goods try the Amazon website who have a massive range of products. They currently cite that deliveries may take longer than usual but of the couple that I have received, it’s not been by more than a day or two. Perfectly acceptable for non-urgent products.
Prescription Delivery Services
If you have a regular prescription and you need to get your medications it may be with asking if your normal pharmacy can deliver your order for you. I know in my smallish town that several of them do and I see their vans zooming around.
If your pharmacy doesn’t offer this service you may want to consider one of the many online pharmacies that have cropped up over the past few years. However, do check first that the pharmacy you chose is registered before signing up. Look for the logo below and if you want more information on the scheme click on the logo or here.
A selection of some of the UK’s online prescriptions services…
Help Using The Internet
If you’re not that internet savvy, why not check out the Learn My Way website which is a website of free online courses for beginners, that aims to help you develop digital skills to make the most of the online world.
Lot’s of topics are covered in their courses including using the internet, office programs, online safety, finding a job improving your health, managing money online and using public services.
After our first meet-up in February 2015, I realised I was not alone. It was the first time since my cardiac arrest the previous year that I had spoken face-to-face with someone who had experienced what I had. This was also true for my wife, who also happened to be my lifesaver. From that meet-up, the idea of SCA UK was born. Since then, we have achieved a considerable amount, primarily providing information, resources and support to others in a similar situation but also raising the profile of survivorship and the need for better post-discharge care. We are starting to get traction in this, and with the formation of the charity, I genuinely believe we have a bright future ahead and will make a significant difference in the lives of many who join our ranks.