Extracts from Dorset Council’s latest residents’ e-newsletter:
Public Health update on COVID-19 cases in Dorset
Over the last week we have seen a significant increase in case numbers and case rates across the Dorset and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council areas. Part of this is as a result of the national issue with a delay in cases being reported last week, which was identified over the weekend.
Between 28 September and 4 October, there were 93 confirmed positive cases in the Dorset Council area.
Latest updates from Public Health Dorset
Self-isolation- how long?
Been told to self-isolate? You must stay at home. Failure to comply can result in a fine. You have to self-isolate for 10 days if you have symptoms or a positive test. You have to self-isolate for 14 days if someone in your household has symptoms.
What to do if you feel unwell, or live with someone who is unwell
Get a test now and don’t leave home for at least 10 days if you have either:
- A high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
- A new, continuous cough – this means you’ve started coughing repeatedly
- Loss or change in sense or smell or taste
You could be fined if you do not stay at home and self-isolate following a positive test for COVID-19
You can find more information and advice about COVID-19 on the NHS website.
Been asked to self-isolate but on a low income?
People on low incomes who are told by NHS Test and Trace to self-isolate – either due to a positive Covid-19 test or because they’ve been in contact with someone who has tested positive – may be entitled to financial support during self-isolation. A £500 one off payment will be made to those who will suffer financial loss as a result of having to self-isolate. A claim form will be available from Monday 12 October on our website.
Welfare checks to support residents
Residents who have been told they must self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace are to receive welfare checks from Dorset Council and partners in the community response to coronavirus. Starting from Monday 12 October, the aim of the calls is to make sure residents have what they need to stay at home safely.
EU citizens – apply to the EU Settlement Scheme
If you are an EU citizen, resident in the UK by 31 December 2020, you and your family members (including non-EU citizens) need to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue to live, work and study in the UK beyond 30 June 2021. Even if you have lived in the UK for many years or you have a permanent residence document, you still need to apply.
