Personal protective equipment (PPE) is now available to all unpaid carers in Southend for free

The council is also providing equipment at no extra cost to people who look after relatives or friends but live in separate properties. 

It comes as updated Government guidance now states unpaid carers are eligible for free PPE if they provide unpaid care to a friend, neighbour, or family member who is unable to manage their own care and need help due to frailty, age, physical illness, a mental health condition, or addiction.

The following PPE items are available for order from Southend Council:

• face masks

• aprons

• gloves

• visors

• hand sanitiser

The council's adult social care and health boss Trevor Harp said: “I am pleased that the Government guidance has been updated for us to provide free PPE to unpaid carers.

“I urge all unpaid carers to use this opportunity to ensure that they are using the correct PPE when providing care for their loved ones, in order to keep yourself and others safe and protected.”

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Carers wishing to access the PPE are asked to visit the council's website to place an order. 

Alternatively, you can contact the coronavirus action helpline on 01702 212497.

The helpline is available seven days a week, from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and 10am to 2pm on Saturday and Sunday.