Here's how to help out when a loved one or friend in Harborough is ready to be released from hospital

People across Harborough are being urged to help out when a loved one or friend is ready to be released from hospital.

The urgent plea for assistance has been made by Leicestershire County Council.

The authority said it acknowledges the need to stay home and stay safe, to protect others and the NHS and follow social distancing advice.

But the council said “some people being discharged from hospital will need a bit of care and support, from a nominated relative or carer”.

Cllr Lee Breckon, county council cabinet member for health, said: “It is a difficult time but there are ways that people can play a part to help the NHS.

“It is vital that family and friends are ready to respond to help their loved ones.

“It is important now for people to play their part in order to help the NHS navigate its way through this pandemic.”

He added: “Providing immediate support to loved ones as they leave hospital and, in the days and weeks which follow, will reassure them as they return home.

“It will also help our hospitals continue to retain critical space for those in need of urgent care.”

University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust said the call to action is “another way for everyone to help”.

Debra Mitchell, acting chief operating officer at Leicester’s hospitals, said: “It is everyone’s priority during the coronavirus emergency to protect ourselves, our families and the communities we live in.

“I am proud to say that during the recent days and weeks we have demonstrated our ability to unite in order to protect our NHS.”

She added: “For the safety of our patients and staff, we’re not currently allowing visitors to hospitals, except, when agreed in advance, for exceptional circumstances.

“However, we are absolutely relying on loved ones to provide support to patients when they are ready to return home.

“This needs to be carried out safely by paying attention to hand-washing advice, social distancing guidelines and other practical guidance that is being issued by the government.”

This checklist will ensure people can safely help loved ones:

• DO make sure you're well before lending assistance, especially to an older person or someone with the conditions listed at www.gov.uk/coronavirus

• DO self-isolate if you're experiencing any symptoms of Covid-19 and look after yourself

• DO consider others in your family or neighbourhood network who could offer help instead if you are self-isolating

• DO check for any trusted local networks you can use, many have already contacted local households.

Loved ones who already provide formal care services are also being encouraged to phone a member of their care team immediately if they, or the person receiving the care, develops symptoms.

That will allow the authorities to protect the health of the workforce and stop the virus spreading to other people receiving support and care.