Get help if you have decided to self-isolate
If you have decided to self-isolate, there are a number of options available to help you access food and other essential supplies.
Help from family and friends
If you choose to stay at home because you have tested positive for coronavirus, or are a close contact of someone who has, you may have friends, family and neighbours who can support you to self-isolate. We would ask that these people continue to be your first point of contact, along with any additional support services such as health or social care you may receive.
Use our online support directory
If friends and family aren't able to help, you can find local support groups and organisations who can help with food supplies, posting mail and chatting over the phone. Visit Locate - our online support directory.
Further support
If you are struggling financially or need free or low cost food, you can contact Citizens Advice by ringing 0800 144 8848.
You may be entitled to help with your daily living expenses from our Welfare assistance scheme.
If family, friends or neighbours can support you, some supermarkets have set up volunteer shopping cards to help people who cannot leave the house. It is a simple, contact-free way of providing money to volunteers and is available as the following schemes:
- County Durham Together Community Hub
- communityhub@durham.gov.uk
- 03000 260 260