Unpaid carers make a huge contribution to families and communities across Tower Hamlets. Many people are continuing to face new challenges as a result of the coronavirus outbreak and having to take on more caring responsibilities for their relatives and friends who are disabled, ill or older and who need support.
Firstly we want to thank them for their selflessness and the vital role they play to support their loved ones and our communities; and want to remind them that the NHS is here for them when they need it.
Dr Sam Everington, Chair of NHS Tower Hamlets Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and a local GP said: "Many unpaid carers are under even more pressure during these difficult times; but those looking after loved ones can get support from their local NHS, even during COVID-19. It is important you do not wait if you or the person you are caring for needs medical help, whether that be physical or mental.
"We know that some people are worried that they or the person they care for might be a burden to the NHS, or that they could contract COVID-19 but the NHS has put measures in place to make sure patients are seen safely, and often you won't need to be seen in person.
"You can visit NHS 111 online for advice, or if you cannot access the internet, call 111; or contact your GP directly either online, by an app or by phone to be assessed. Most appointments with a GP will now be via a phone call."
If you or the person you care for are feeling low or struggling to cope, there is NHS mental health support you can access by calling 020 8475 8080.
If it is a serious or life-threatening emergency, like symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, call 999 immediately. If you are told to go to hospital, it is important that you go.
