Supporting you to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community
Thank you for self-isolating. By doing this you are helping to protect other people from COVID-19.
If you’ve been asked to self-isolate it is because you could be at risk of spreading the virus to others. If you are feeling well, it’s still important to self-isolate as you can still pass on the virus before you have symptoms. Please remember it is a legal requirement to self-isolate if you test positive or are told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace. You could be fined if you do not self-isolate.
We know self-isolating can be difficult, and it can be harder if you don’t know where to get support. This pack contains information about how and where to get help in Oxfordshire, making it as easy for you as possible.
The restrictions and guidance
What is self-isolation?
Self-isolation is when you do not leave your home because you have or might have COVID-19. This helps stop the virus spreading to other people.
When should I self-isolate?
Self-isolate immediately if:
Get tested immediately, either by booking a test or ordering a home kit, if you are showing symptoms of COVID-19.
Symptoms include:
What does self-isolation involve?
You must not leave your home if you’re self-isolating
How long do I need to self-isolate for?
It can take up to 10 days to develop symptoms after exposure – this is known as the incubation period – and this is the period of time you need to self-isolate, unless you develop symptoms at some point during the 10 days.
This is why it’s so important to self-isolate for the allocated time and to only book a test if you develop symptoms.
Keep self-isolating if you have any of these symptoms after 10 days:
Only stop self-isolating when these symptoms have gone. If you have diarrhoea or you’re being sick, stay at home until 48 hours after they’ve stopped.
You can stop self-isolating after 10 days if either:
I’m isolating but what if I develop COVID-19 symptoms?
There is currently no specific treatment for COVID-19, but you can often ease the symptoms at home until you recover:
If you’re feeling breathless, it can help to keep your room cool. Try turning the heating down or opening a window. Do not use a fan as it may spread the virus.
You could also try:
If you are concerned about your symptoms or feel breathless and it’s getting worse, get medical advice from the NHS 111 online COVID-19 service.
Help and support
Support to help you self-isolate
You may need help to self-isolate, from simple things like getting groceries to financial help if you cannot work from home. Contact your local council if you need help.
I need immediate financial support, what can I do?
You could be eligible for a £500 Test and Trace support payment if you live in England and meet all the following five criteria:
If you’re not on one of these benefits, you could be eligible for a £500 discretionary payment if all the following apply:
Find out more about the payments on the government’s website.
The payments are administered by district councils. To apply, visit your local council website:
What other financial support can I access?
Local Support Grant
You can get help with food, electricity and heating bills and other essential items by applying for a Local Support Grant
Oxfordshire councils and Citizens Advice services are working together to provide this support. Households with children can claim up to £350, while those without children can receive up to £175. The funding can be used to provide supermarket vouchers, cover costs for pre-payment meters or make sure that a heating or water bill is paid. If you have received a food voucher from a previous scheme, you may also be eligible to have one from this funding
You need to apply to the local council where you live.
Local hardship grants may also be available in specific local areas and towns/parishes.
Community food providers and free school meals
There are also a number of community food providers on hand (such as food banks, community larders etc), including those supported by food and other essential supplies grants, to support those struggling. You can ask your local council about community food support in your area or visit the Good Food Oxford website.
For other groups and businesses providing food services near you visit Oxfordshire County Council’s website for more information.
If your child is eligible for free school meals and is required to stay at home to self-isolate, you are entitled to a food parcel or shopping vouchers. Contact your child’s school or college for further information.
Council tax and benefits
Councils also have the discretionary power to reduce council tax bills in light of the pandemic. Details can be found on your local council’s website:
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has published information for those who need to claim benefits during the COVID-19 crisis. More information can be found on the DWP website.
What other practical support is available?
Help with essentials
NHS volunteer responders can help with things like:
More information can be found on the NHS volunteer responders website.
These groups and services can help you with shopping, dog walking, prescription collections and much more:
Schools and colleges
Schools and colleges have plans in place to continue the education of children and young people required to self-isolate. Additional resources and information for parents and carers on schools and education during the pandemic can be found on Oxfordshire County Council’s website.
My mental health is suffering – where can I get help?
If you feel anxious about your finances, worried about your friends and family or angry and are struggling with day to day living you can contact your GP or visit Oxfordshire County Council’s website to find out what services are available to you.
Oxfordshire’s city and district councils also provide resources for those locally who may need mental health support:
Other help and support can be accessed online:
You can also call the NHS mental health helplines for adults and children:
01865 904997 / 904998
If you are having suicidal thoughts call 111 or 999, or if your life is in danger go to the nearest accident and emergency department.