Healthwatch East Sussex (HWES) Statement on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Last updated: 19th March 2020
We would like to reassure you that Healthwatch East Sussex (HWES) is closely and regularly monitoring the latest advice from Public Health England regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19). This is focused on minimising the risk of infection for our board, staff and volunteers as well as for partners, health professionals, service users and the public.
We understand people’s natural concerns and are exploring how our activity may be adapted to minimise risk and to align with the decisions of others.
As of the 17th March 2020 HWES is postponing or cancelling all planned face-to-face engagement activity and staff will not be attending meetings until further notice. We would appreciate your understanding and patience in us undertaking these steps.
Our staff are working remotely and minimising face-to-face contact with others wherever possible. They are being asked to wash their hands regularly and thoroughly and to limit interaction with anyone in a high-risk category, or those exhibiting any illness or symptoms of the virus.
We are well aware of the large amount of information related to coronavirus now in the public domain, but would encourage all parties to only follow the official guidance provided by Public Health England: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/coronavirus-covid-19-list-of-guidance
We will update our coronavirus (COVID-19) information as and when new information becomes available. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
The Independent Health Complaints Advocacy Service (IHCAS) remains unchanged but may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis if face-to-face contact is required.
If you require support with an NHS Health complaint, this is available using the following contact details https://www.theadvocacypeople.org.uk/nhs-complaints-advocacy. Should you experience any difficulties in accessing this service then please get in touch via the Information and Enquiry Line details below.
Our Information and Enquiry Line will continue to operate if you have any service-specific queries in relation to health and care services in East Sussex.
Telephone: 0333 101 4007
Email: enquiries@healthwatcheastsussex.org.uk
Twitter: www.twitter.com/HealthwatchES
Last updated: 19th March 2020
