Blakedown Coronavirus Statement
LATEST CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) INFORMATION
With the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation developing quickly, we believe it’s important to be transparent about how Blakedown is responding to the outbreak. Our philosophy as a business is to approach this situation with empathy and urgency. Blakedown’s top priority is the health and safety of our employees, our customers and anyone affected by our works.
Given how rapidly the outbreak is evolving, we expect and are prepared to continually evaluate our approach to ensure the health and safety of all. We will update this post accordingly to reflect any fundamental changes to our plan.
The UK government has advised that everyone in the UK should now avoid “non-essential” travel and contact with others to fight coronavirus. Whilst it has not issued any ban on public gatherings of any size either indoors or outdoors at this stage, the advice is to avoid non-essential contact with others including going to sporting events, pubs, clubs, theatres and social venues.
Blakedown will continue to review and monitor government advice and will provide updates on the impact over the coming weeks. We appreciate that the current situation will undoubtedly place our employees and clients in a difficult situation and we are working with them on the best way to help alleviate the situation.
Social distancing and advice
Social distancing measures (as defined by Public Health England as spending more than 15 minutes and within a 2-metre distance talking to someone) are now advised not only if we test positive or have symptoms, but in day to day life. As well as current travel advice, the current UK government is advising anyone with a “new, continuous” cough or high temperature to self-isolate (and those they live with) for 14 days.
At-Risk groups
Everyone over the age of 70 and those in at-risk groups under the age of 70 have been advised to be “largely shielded from social contact” for 12 weeks to help protect themselves. Those with underlying medical issues such as high blood pressure, lung complaints and weakened or compromised immune systems are more likely to develop serious illness as a result of the disease.
Anyone with a higher risk from viruses such as cold or flu should take sensible steps to reduce the risk of picking up infections.
Wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
Always wash your hands when you get home or into work
Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
Put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
Avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of coronavirus
Phone your GP surgery or use the online services to contact the 111 NHS services