With the Covid-19 Pandemic about to begin its third year, it’s plain to see the ways our lives have changed. We are given mandated isolation periods, we must ensure consistent hygiene practices and not wearing a mask is a thing of the past. But these changes are to keep ourselves, our peers, and the most vulnerable in our society safe. Living in shared accommodation, especially with people you don’t know, can make it challenging to know what to do regarding Covid safety for yourself and those you live with. We would therefore like to share with you the government advice and tips on staying safe during the pandemic (up to date as of 06/01/2022).

Of course, if you have a high temperature, a new continuous cough and/or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste, get hold of a PCR test and isolate until you get your results. Even if your symptoms feel very mild, it important to get tested using a PCR to keep those around you and others safe.

If you do test positive and you live in a property guardianship, please contact the Guardian manager or Residents Manager. Clear, consistent, and timely updates about new cases are important as this will protect all Oaksure staff and contractors who may be visiting your accommodation. You should also let those in your accommodation and those you have been in contact with know that you have tested positive. It is also important to fulfil your entire isolation period. If you need any assistance during this period, please contact Oaksure who will endeavour to help you.

If you are not fully vaccinated and have had contact with someone who has tested positive for Coronavirus, you should isolate for 10 days. If you are fully vaccinated and have had contact with someone who has tested positive, you do not have to self-isolate, but you should complete rapid lateral flow tests every day for 7 days. In this time, if you develop symptoms or test positive on a lateral flow test, please get a PCR test.

For further government advice, please head to the NHS advice page.

Oaksure would also like to offer some tips on how to keep yourself safe during the pandemic, especially during the quick spread of the Omicron variant.

• Always sanitise your hands with hand sanitiser or soap and water after using public transport, going to a public place, being in a communal area, shaking hands with someone, or other times you encounter a hard surface that is shared.
• Always wipe down surfaces in communal areas (kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms) with antibacterial spray after using the space.
• Mask wearing in communal areas is advised when socialising or being used by others.
• Despite the cold, fresh air ventilation in communal areas is important and we recommend windows are kept open.
• If shared spaces are busy, consider going back another time.
• If you have an outside space at your property, consider socialising with your peers there instead.
• If you have been in contact with someone who has tested positive, it is important to let people who have seen recently know, including those you share space with.

If you are an Oaksure resident and guardian and have any questions about how to live safely in your guardianship during the pandemic, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.