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Our priority is to continue to provide, with our partners, the important, essential local authority services, as well as ensure that those who need support to stay at home or shield are able to access it. Our Coronavirus pages on our website have the latest updates on services affected by the pandemic.
The Hampshire Coronavirus Support and Helpline
The Helpline can provide a helping hand for vulnerable residents, including those who have been shielding. For the duration of the national lockdown, the extended hours will continue, and these are:
• Monday to Thursday: 9am - 5pm
• Friday: 9am - 4.30pm
• Weekends: 10am - 3pm
Residents can call 0333 370 4000 (calls charged at local rate) or request a call-back from the Helpline by completing the call-back request form.
Libraries
Library customers can continue to borrow and reserve physical items at public libraries by using our Ready Reads service or reserving online. All Hampshire Libraries are closed for browsing, and fines are frozen. Access to Go Online public computers is temporarily suspended. Enjoy free access to resources in our digital library, including a huge range of e-books and e-audio books.
Country Parks and outdoor spaces
We know how important it is for people to be able to access local outdoor spaces for both their physical and mental wellbeing, particularly at these times. We're working within the national guidance for our country parks, but urge residents to stay local.
Household Waste Recycling Centres
All of our Household Waste Recycling Centres remain open for those who need to use them. There is a booking system in use to help manage demand while there are social distancing measures in place.
Highways maintenance
Essential highways maintenance is continuing, including emergency pothole repairs, winter gritting, drain cleaning and flood prevention work. If you spot any road or pavement problems, please report them to us using our website.
Information for parents and carers on schools
Early years settings, including nurseries and childminders, are open to all throughout the six-week lockdown (up to the February half-term holiday). Schools (primary and secondary) and colleges are open only for vulnerable children and young people and the children of critical workers. All other pupils, in every year group, should stay at home in line with national lockdown restrictions. Schools and colleges are providing education remotely for all those learning from home. See the national guidance on our website.
Looking after someone
There is practical help available for people who provide unpaid care for their loved ones. Unpaid carers who have been impacted as a result of additional pressures due to COVID-19, whether emotionally, physically or mentally, can contact any of these organisations for advice:
• Andover MIND - 01264 332297 (select option 3). Monday to Friday: 9am - 5pm. enquiries@andovermind.org.uk
• The Princess Royal Trust for Carers in Hampshire - 01264 835246. Monday to Thursday: 9am - 5pm / Friday: 9am - 4.30pm. info@carercentre.com
• Carers Together - 01794 519495. Monday to Friday: 9.30am -1.30pm (answer machine outside these hours). admin@carerstogether.org.uk
Advice about support bubbles
Remember, not everyone can form a bubble - follow the rules to protect yourself and your loved ones. Keep your bubble local and don't change it. See our bubbles guidance for further information.
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