Safe Inside Directory: Covid Safer Services

This month, a new directory called 'Safe Inside' launched - a self-certification scheme to help people find Covid-safe places to access healthcare and other services. It was great to be asked to the first business listed and to be tweeted about as an 'absolutely inspiring business'. 

Here's the entry for Holistyx - https://safeinside.co.uk/holistyx

This directory is looking for information on other businesses - particularly Healthcare related or essential services such as dentists, opticians, therapists, funeral directors. 

Do you know of any businesses who have measures in place such as HEPA filters and a masking policy? Or even just a window always open and workers who test if symptomatic and stay off work if testing positive? Tell them to get themselves listed!

Find out what safety measures there are at Holistyx against Covid and other infectious diseases commonly in circulation such as flu, colds, RSV and norovirus at: Infection Control Policies and Procedures. 

PS I have since discovered a Facebook group called CEV Safer Places UK for people who are clinically extremely vulnerable to Covid to find venues which are mindful of infection control, outdoor attractions, or venues with outdoor eating.

Phase 4 - What Covid-19 Measures have Changed? What Is Still in Place?

England moved into Phase 4 on 19th July. 

Thank you to all my clients over the last few weeks who I have consulted on possible changes. 😀

I am aware that the vaccination programme has greatly weakened the link between infection and hospitalisation and death and that the government has reduced requirements on that basis. However I am also aware that:
- only 52% of the population is vaccinated
- we have the highest rate of infection in the world
- I have Clinically Vulnerable and Extremely Clinically Vulnerable clients that are very concerned for their risk
- there is no evidence that vaccination reduces the risk of disability from Long Covid

Guidance from the government is here. Further guidance support from my Professional Association, the APNT is on Facebook here and on their website here. 

"While England moves to step 4 of Covid-19 restrictions from 19 July that removes the mandatory wearing of face-coverings and social distancing, therapists are reminded that, as they work in a close contact setting, there is a higher risk of viral transmission. Therefore, the APNT does recommend the continued wearing of face-coverings for all clients and therapists and asks that you seriously consider the continued use of type II masks and eye protection as the alternative to a face-covering, particularly when treating the high-risk zone." - APNT. 

Read on for details of what has changed and what has remained unchanged in my infection control measures.