News

Keeping it simple to keep Sussex safe

13th August 2020

With so much information and advice about staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s not surprising that some people have felt confused or overwhelmed.

The NHS and other health and care organisations in Sussex have teamed up to keep things simple. We’ve set out the straightforward steps that you can take to keep yourself and other safe and reduce your risk of serious illness from COVID-19.

Please help spread the message, not the virus.

Protect yourself and others

Take common-sense steps to reduce the risk of catching or spreading coronavirus. You can spread the virus even if you do not have symptoms.

• Watch your distance – wherever possible, stay at least two metres (three steps) away from people you don’t live with
• Wear a face covering – if you can, cover your nose and mouth in places where it’s hard to stay away from other people
• Wash your hands – often, and whenever you get home, with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• If you might have coronavirus, stay at home and arrange a free test

Watch this short animation to check you’re getting the most protection from your face covering. See the latest guidance on social distancing, face coverings, symptoms and tests and find out more about details in your area: Government website, Brighton and Hove, East Sussex, West Sussex.

Get medical help if you need it

Although services might be a little different for a while, the NHS is still here for you when you need it.

• If you need medical help from your GP, contact them online or by phone to be assessed
• For urgent medical help, contact NHS 111 online or by phone
• If it’s a serious or life-threatening emergency, call 999
• Continue to attend your appointments, unless you are told not to

You can get the medical help you need, any time of day or night, through NHS 111: 111.nhs.uk

Find more information on getting the right care in Sussex in our Access to NHS Services During COVID-19 leaflet.

Look after yourself

Keeping healthy means you’re less likely to get seriously ill from coronavirus.

• Enjoy a balanced diet, exercise regularly and take action to lose weight if you need to
• Get help to go smokefree
• Drink sensibly – no more than 14 units a week over at least three days.
• Get a flu jab if you’re eligible

You are more likely to achieve your goals with support. Get personalised support in your area: Brighton and Hove, East Sussex, West Sussex. There is also lots of information and practical advice about keeping healthy on the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/live-well/

Look after your mental health

The pandemic is affecting us all in different ways. It is important to look after your mental health and get help if you need it.

• Take time to relax and do things you enjoy
• Stay connected with friends and family
• Try to get enough sleep
• Get help if things are worrying you

Get practical tips and help from Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust: www.sussexpartnership.nhs.uk/coronavirus-covid-19-and-your-mental-health