As we all know, the COVID-19 situation has changed the way Australians live their lives. We have been asked to abide by new rules designed to keep us safe, and now we can see that it’s working! By practicing social distancing, good hand and respiratory hygiene, and staying at home as much as possible, Australians have come together (while staying apart) in an attempt to stop the spread of coronavirus. We encourage you to stay up to date with information from the Australian Government or World Health Organisation around what we can all be doing to stay safe.
The Australian Government has launched an app and established a Whatsapp service where you can receive important updates and information about any changes. Download the “Coronavirus Australia” government app in the Apple App Store or Google Play.
To join the WhatsApp channel, download Whatsapp in the Apple App Store or Google Play and send a chat to +61 400 253 787. You can also head to Australian Government WhatsApp channel for further information.
Safety first
Staying healthy and following the directives of the Australian Government is key to stopping the spread of COVID-19. Here are some things you can do to keep healthy during this period:
- Stay home when possible and only go out for the essentials – food and necessary supplies; medical or health care needs; and exercise with only one other person.
- Practice good hand and respiratory hygiene by washing your hands frequently and covering your nose and mouth with a flexed elbow or a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- If you or any people in your family have been in contact with a case of COVID-19, have recently returned from overseas or from interstate, follow QLD and NSW Health directives to self-isolate.
- If you get a fever, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath, contact a doctor. For free health advice from a registered nurse, call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) if you are in QLD or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 if you are in NSW.
What is CPL doing?
CPL has always had an unwavering commitment to keeping our clients and employees safe, which remains unchanged. CPL has taken its lead from the Australian Government and has implemented a range of measures designed to keep our clients safe, while delivering on our promise to continue the services and supports on which our clients rely.
Some of our preventative measures include strict cleaning protocols; new visitation guidelines for all CPL sites; and having clear action plans for our staff in case of suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19. We have a coronavirus working group assessing the situation each day, with our clients and employees at the centre of every decision made.
To find out more about our response, visit cpl.org.au
Haven’t heard from CPL?
If you access any of CPL’s services, you should be receiving ongoing communications about COVID-19. If you have not received anything from us, please check the contact information CPL has on file for you by calling 1800 275 753.
Spread kindness
It has been incredible to see the kind actions of many in amongst the uncertainty of this situation. From extra support for our frontline staff, hiding teddy bears in windows for local children to discover, to neighbourhoods supporting each other by buying vouchers for those who have lost employment, we’ve seen some great initiatives come to life. We can all play a part.
One of our favourites has been #TheKindnessPandemic – a Facebook group dedicated to sharing stories of kindness. It’s fantastic to have a way for everyone to come together and share their positive experiences.
We also want to hear about the best things you have seen come out of this, or what you have done to spread kindness. Email us at [email protected].
How to safely get supplies
It’s been great to see businesses finding ways to support people with disability to purchase essential items during this time. Be sure to check out these services offering solutions:
- Woolworths and Coles have created an online priority service for eligible people, so that customers who can’t shop in-store can have groceries delivered to their home. This includes people living with a disability. Click here for Woolworths and here for Coles.
- The NDIA has sent all NDIS participants a unique home delivery access code by SMS or email to access priority home delivery services. Simply complete your shopping online with participating supermarket retailers, enter your unique code when prompted and submit your order.
- If you have no other means of getting food or essential items, call The Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.
Making the most of self-isolation
As part of the social distancing requirements, all of us are spending a lot more time at home. There’s only so much TV you can watch, so here’s some ways to look after your mental and physical health during self-isolation.
- Stay connected. Being isolated doesn’t mean you can’t see and talk to people. Technology today makes this really easy with apps like FaceTime and Skype, so make sure you check in with your friends and family for regular chats.
- Stick to a routine. It’s important to keep some continuity in your daily schedule, especially with sleep, exercise and mealtimes.
- Tune out. Staying updated is important, but constantly checking social media can cause you to dwell on what’s out of our control. Try taking breaks from all the noise to regain some perspective.
- Feed your mind. Keep your brain active in isolation by learning a new skill. There are great virtual learning opportunities, whatever your interest might be.
- Hang with your pets. If you’re lucky enough to have a furry friend, they will be happy to hear that pats, and playtime can help to stabilise your mood and relieve stress.
- Reach out. Do you know people who might be more likely to struggle during this time? Get in touch to let them know they’re not alone. Focusing on those around you can also help to get out of your own head, so it’s a win-win!
