# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Samaritans have launched new, confidential support lines for health and social care workers and volunteers based in England and Wales

The support lines are run by Samaritans and all calls are answered by trained Samaritans volunteers, who provide confidential, non-judgmental support.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or frightened and you need to talk, Samaritans are there to help.

What can I talk about?

If you need to process your experiences during the coronavirus crisis, our volunteers are there for you. That's whether you've had a tough day, are feeling worried or overwhelmed, or just have a lot on your mind.

We listen without judgement, so you can talk to us about anything that's troubling you. And if you need any practical support or information about other services, such as debt advice or bereavement support, our volunteers can point you in the direction of other useful sources of support.

Why does the service exist?

The spread of coronavirus is affecting all social care workers and everyone in the NHS, from nurses, doctors and porters to care workers, personal assistants and housekeepers. For most of us, this isn't like anything anyone's ever experienced before.

Support for health and social care workers in England

Now, more than ever, it's important that we all look after ourselves and each other, which is why we've worked in partnership with the NHS in England to launch this confidential wellbeing support line for NHS, social care workers, and volunteers.

How does it work?

The confidential support line is open 7am to 11pm, 7 days a week, and is run by dedicated and trained Samaritan volunteers who are self-isolating following government guidance. You can call us for free on the numbers below.

NHS and social care workers in England

Posters

Signpost your colleagues to the service in your workplace by downloading the following posters for staff rooms or staff noticeboards.

Support for health and social care workers in Wales

Samaritans has launched a new wellbeing support line for health and social care workers in Wales, funded by the Welsh Government. Coronavirus has changed the way we all live and work, and during this challenging time, we believe that no one working or volunteering on the frontline should have to face it alone. If you are struggling to cope or want to talk, we're here for you during the coronavirus crisis in Wales. You can call us for free on the numbers below.

NHS and social care workers in Wales (English line - open every day between 7am-11pm)

NHS and social care workers in Wales (Welsh line - open every evening between 7am-11pm)

Cymorth i weithwyr iechyd a gweithwyr gofal cymdeithasol yng Nghymru

Mae'r Samariaid wedi lansio llinell gymorth llesiant newydd i weithwyr iechyd a gweithwyr gofal cymdeithasol yng Nghymru, sy'n cael ei hariannu gan Lywodraeth Cymru.

Mae'r coronafeirws wedi newid ein ffordd o fyw ac o weithio. Yn ystod y cyfnod heriol hwn, credwn na ddylai neb sy'n gweithio neu'n gwirfoddoli ar y rheng flaen orfod ei wynebu ar ei ben ei hun. Os ydych chi'n cael trafferth i ymdopi neu eisiau siarad, rydym yma ichi yn ystod argyfwng y coronafeirws yng Nghymru. Gallwch ein ffonio ni am ddim ar y rhifau isod.

Gweithwyr y GIG a gweithwyr gofal cymdeithasol yng Nghymru (Llinell Saesneg - ar agor bob dydd 7am-11pm)

Gweithwyr y GIG a gweithwyr gofal cymdeithasol yng Nghymru (Llinell Gymraeg - ar agor bob nos 7am-11pm)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Wellbeing support line for health and social care workers

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Samaritans have launched new, confidential support lines for health and social care workers and volunteers based in England and Wales The support lines are run by Samaritans and all calls are answered by trained Samaritans volunteers, who provide confidential, non-judgmental support. If you're feeling overwhelmed or frightened and you need to talk, Samaritans are there to help.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Try our self assessment tool

Community Advice & Listening Line

Offers emotional support and information/literature on Mental Health and related matters to the people of Wales.

Anyone concerned about their own mental health or that of a relative or friend can access the service. C.A.L.L. Helpline offers a confidential listening and support service.
Neurodivergent work - find out more

Mind Cymru is here to support you, whether you're living with a mental health problem, or supporting someone who is.

Visit our website for information on mental health conditions, treatment and where to get help: MIND Services

Contact our legal line for general advice on mental health related law: Legal Line

Join the Elefriends community for online peer support: Elefriends

Be part of Time to Change Wales, to end metal health stigma: TTCW

You can also order up to 3 free Mental Health related leaflets from a wide selection available.

Are you having debt, housing or financial problems?

The Mental Health Helpline service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year.

Our admin office is available during office hours only (9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday).

Supporting Those Living With Dementia And Their Carers

The helpline offers emotional support to anyone, of any age, who is caring for someone with Dementia as well as other family members or friends.

The service will also help and support those who have been diagnosed with Dementia.

Get information sent to your mobile phone

C.A.L.L. Helpline has launched a Mental Health text messaging service allowing people to access support and information via a text message from their mobile phone.

The Staying Safe website is a potentially life-saving resource developed by 4 Mental Health, with invaluable with invaluable input from our Expert Reference Group of international academics, people with lived experience (including of surviving a suicide attempt, self-harm, supporting a friend or family member or bereavement by suicide), suicide prevention experts, mental health practitioners, general practitioners, policy makers, public health experts, sector experts, educationalists and concerned citizens.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
C.A.L.L. Mental Health Helpline For Wales

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
CALL offers emotional support and information/literature on mental health and related matters to the people of Wales.

# data[].attributes.body
Support for frontline staff

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Just 'B' offers emotional wellbeing and bereavement support to children, young people and adults across North Yorkshire, as well as supporting NHS, care sector and emergency service workers nationally through a dedicated helpline in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Just 'B' is one of a range of services offered by North Yorkshire Hospice Care, the registered charity helping local people to live with terminal illness and bereavement.

Rosie was able to attend the Just 'B' centre at Burton House for a couple of sessions before lockdown happened and I was impressed by the dedication, professionalism and support which is provided.

At Just 'B', our emotional wellbeing and bereavement support is tailored to the individual needs of the children, young people and adults using our services. Here, members of our community share the ways Just 'B' offered the right support at the right time.

Cookies help us to provide, protect and improve our services. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our privacy policy. Close

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Support for frontline staff. The Hospice UK Just 'B' helpline sees our specially trained Just 'B' staff and volunteers offer emotional wellbeing, bereavement and trauma to NHS, care sector staff and emergency service workers. Available seven days a week, 8am-8pm, by calling 0300 303 4434.

# data[].attributes.body
Information about services and resources to support your wellbeing

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Covid-19: Information, guidance and resources to support you through the pandemic

Covid-19 homepage

Your health and well-being

We've developed a resource to support the health and well-being of social care workers during the coronavirus pandemic.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank social care workers across Wales working to keep vulnerable people safe and well during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We are aware that caring for and supporting people during these challenging and unprecedented times will have left you working under huge pressure, in unfamiliar and rapidly changing circumstances.

As lock down measures are relaxed, it's important you look after yourself. Remember, that feeling overwhelmed is not a weakness nor does it reflect badly on you. We would encourage anyone who is feeling overwhelmed, anxious or in need of support, to seek support from their line manager and make use of the resources available on this page.

We are keen to support you and we continue to maintain the online health and well-being resource. We hope you find the resource useful in maintaining your health and well-being over the coming challenging weeks and months.

Due to the ever-evolving nature of the current situation, these resources may be updated frequently. However, we will aim to keep the information as relevant as possible.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious and feeling like you just can't go on? Perhaps you are feeling out of control and fearful - you are not alone. The World Health Organisation has described the coronavirus outbreak as "unique and unprecedented scenario" for many frontline workers.

Get help now - please do not delay seeking support from the services listed.

We've launched a new employee assistance programme that offers well-being support to those employed in the social care workforce in the private and voluntary sectors in Wales, including personal assistants. We've sent posters and information about the service to workplaces - speak to your manager or employer to find out how to access it. Or, if you have any queries, call Care first's 24/7 number - 0333 2129 212.

Samaritans has launched a new confidential support line for NHS and social care workers in Wales. Their volunteers are here to support you when you've had a tough day, are feeling worried or overwhelmed, or just have a lot on your mind and need to talk it through. Sometimes, a friendly voice, some time to reflect and a listening ear can make all the difference. It's more important than ever that we look after ourselves and each other. Call the free confidential support line 0800 484 0555 (Open every day, 7am to 11pm) or the free confidential support line in Welsh 0808 164 2777 (Open every evening, 7pm to 11pm).

Anyone concerned about their mental health can access confidential emotional support from the C.A.L.L. Helpline on freephone 0800 132 737 or text help to 81066. The C.A.L.L website also offers information and literature on mental health and related matters.

The BAME Helpline Wales is the helpline for anyone over the age of 18 living in Wales, particularly if you identify as Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic. The helpline aims to respond to the disproportionate impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic on BAME communities by providing information, referral and signposting to specialist advice, mainstream and community organisations. The helpline is open 10:30am to 2:30pm, Monday to Friday and can be contacted on phone 0300 222 5720 and SMS text on 07537 432416.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency have now approved the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for use in the UK. The Public health wales website hosts dedicated resources for social care workers on the delivery of the vaccine programme.

Maintaining a healthy diet and having good nutrition is very important during the COVID-19 pandemic. A healthy diet and eating well can play an important part in supporting your physical well-being. The British Dietetic Association (BDA) has answers to many questions and concerns about nutrition during COVID-19. The information is useful as a reference guide and includes a healthy eating food fact sheet. In addition, a helpful webinar on maintaining good nutrition in the current times of stress, fear and uncertainty is available from This Can Happen.

The webinar is also supported by a free downloadable slide pack on maintaining good nutrition during the pandemic.

The Welsh Government has launched an All Wales COVID-19 Workforce Risk Assessment Tool. The tool has been developed to help people working in the NHS and Social Care in Wales to see if they are at higher risk of developing more serious symptoms if they come into contact with the COVID-19 virus. You can complete the self-assessment and then have a conversation with your line manager. Using the tool will to help you understand whether you may be at greater risk and to help you and your line manager to choose the right actions for you based on your level of risk.

If you are struggling with muscle and joint problems (such as neck, hip or back pain) and would like support to help manage your condition, you can get rapid access to NHS physiotherapists through the Well-being Through Work Service. The service is free and confidential. Please note the service is only available to those working in businesses in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend.

Staying active and keeping yourself physically well can be more difficult at this time. There are tools, advice and ideas on keeping physically well on the Public Health Wales website.

Welsh Government written statement on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for protecting front line health and social care staff who are caring for suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients.

Many of us will be working from home due to the pandemic and usual support we access in our workplaces may not be there for us at the moment. As we adapt to new ways of working, it is important that we reflect on what keeps us well and identify what can impact our wellbeing whilst working from home. Mind has made available a resource on How to support your mental health when working from home. It is a practical resource that helps you develop a personalised action plan to support your mental health.

Activate your life is a free online course designed to help you improve your mental health and wellbeing. The course is based on a relatively new approach to therapy - 'Acceptance and Commitment Therapy' (ACT). The course is in four filmed sessions, and the films show you practical ways of dealing with thoughts and feelings.

Help for Heroes has made their Field Guide to Self-Care available to anyone who could benefit from it, but especially frontline workers in health and social care. The guide is aimed at helping you deal with emotional challenges and practical changes, since the Coronavirus outbreak started. The guide is available in Welsh and English and is broken down into three parts; Body, Emotion and Mind and can be worked through in one go or one at a time.

Mindfulness can be beneficial for mental health. The free Mindfulness Based Living app developed by the Mindfulness Association provides all of the guided practices for their Level 1 - Level 3 Mindfulness courses.

Working in exceptionally challenging circumstances can leave you feeling anxious and worried. If you or one of your colleagues is struggling with anxiety there is a five minute podcast developed by Dr Chris Williams explaining how you can take control of anxiety. The Podcast can also be found within the NHS mental health audio guides.

SilverCloud Workforce is an online mental health and wellbeing programme tailored specifically to help health and social care workers. The SilverCloud online programme helps you ease your levels of stress, sleep better or to build resilience. You can choose to use any of the programmes on offer - Space for Resilience; Space from Stress; Space from COVID-19; Space for Sleep. To use SilverCloud you will need an access code which is available via the social care worker card.

The World Health Organisation has published advice for front line staff on mental health and psycho-social considerations during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Community Care has published an emotional resilience guide. The guide is a free download to support all practitioners during the pandemic and includes specific techniques practitioners can try to develop a personal resilience "toolbox".

Using brief animation, Dr Russ Harris, illustrates how to use ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to help you deal with the corona crisis and the fear, anxiety and worry that goes with it.

The Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust has made available resources to help emergency workers stay well, particularly when it comes to mental health.

Carers UK provides detailed information and tips designed to help both you and those you care for look after your mental well-being. There is also information and specific ideas on how to develop a well-being action plan.

If you are anxious about coronavirus, Hafal has useful tips for looking after your mental health during the coronavirus outbreak.

If you are feeling anxious or worried about coronavirus the Mind website is a good source of information for what you can do to take care of your mental health and well-being.

Improvement Cymru has a mental health resources page, which provides useful self-help resources and information , including links to apps aimed at helping you look after your mental health.

Financial well-being is as important as ever during this pandemic, anxiety about money can understandably have an impact on your well-being. We have pulled together a list of initiatives to assist and advice you with financial pressures you may be facing at this time.

If you are concerned about money during the coronavirus pandemic, the Money Advice Service has published useful information to help you identify how you can best manage your money. The information covers a range of topics such as how to make an emergency budget and the best way to pay bills.

The Care Workers' Charity supports care workers with hardship grants. There are currently two grants on offer, the Crisis Grant Fund and the Covid-19 Emergency Fund. Both grant funds are open to receiving applications from social care workers.

There is now support for social care workers who are required to stay off work due to actual or suspected COVID-19 or because they have to self-isolate. The Statutory sick pay enhancement scheme supports social care workers who only get statutory sick pay when absent or are not eligible for SSP. The scheme runs until 31 March 2021. An eligibility checker is available from the Welsh Government.

Social care workers who have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge may be able to claim their money back from HM Government. Eligible applicants can now apply online and find out more about the scheme. Telephone help is available if you have difficulty in applying.

Financial support and debt advice is available for social workers from the British Association of Social Workers website.

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has updated its guidance for employers and pregnant women in a joint statement. The original guidance which was written at the peak of the pandemic has now been archived.

Pregnant women should socially distance in line with government guidance. Employers are advised to undertake individual risk assessments for pregnant staff members that considers the individual's circumstances, underlying health conditions and the risks of their employment setting, alongside the latest clinical advice from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

As leaders and managers in social care, you are working hard to protect the well-being of your teams who are going above and beyond to ensure services continue for those who need them. Well-being remains a priority and additional support maybe needed during this time.

Your teams - protecting well-being and reducing the risk of burnout

Managers can access a practical guide on maintaining team resilience from Skills for Care. The guide includes examples of things that you can do to reduce the risk of workplace stress, help workers develop resilient behaviours and make resilient behaviour the norm in the workplace.

Here is a 5-minute check in you can do with your team to help support them to consider their need to self-care:

Have I eaten regular meals this week?

Have I showered?

Am I getting enough sleep? Do I wake in the night and struggle to go back to sleep?

Am I being self-critical or am I thinking kind thoughts about myself?

Have I made time to go for a walk or to be outside?

Have a spent time with someone who is important to me, even if that's a phone call or video call?

Have I moved my body today?

Has something made me smile this week?

The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust managers resource describes some of the physical and emotional responses you may see from your team during the current pandemic. It explores ways you can support your team and their well-being.

Compassionate leadership - what is it and why is important to leading in a crisis?

You can find resources, including webinars and blogs explaining what compassionate leadership is on the Kings fund website and why it is so important as a leadership approach during a time of crisis. You can also find other resources and webinars to enable a compassionate approach to leadership during COVID-19.

The Kings fund has developed resources and webinars to support leaders during this time.

More resources on compassionate leadership are available from the Health Education and Improvement Wales website Gwella. These include a compassionate behaviour compass to help us navigate how we interact and engage with colleagues.

Leading teams providing end of life care

Some care providers in Wales are providing end of life care and this is hugely emotionally challenging. Here you can find advice and resources on how to support your team through their grief and model compassionate leadership.

Supporting staff who are experiencing poor mental health

Mind provide free templates to help managers and their staff to develop Well-being Actions Plans as a way to proactively support positive mental health and prevent work related stress and burn out.

The Intensive Care Society has made available a series of downloadable posters aimed at improving our understanding of psychological well-being at work, the impact that reduced well-being can have and what we can do in response and includes tips for dealing with extraordinary situations such as COVID-19. You can use the posters to set up a staff wellbeing board or complement other well-being activities in your workplace.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development has advice and information for employers on dealing with the corona virus pandemic. The information is comprehensive and covers a range of topics for managers and employers on supporting staff by being prepared, particularly looking after employees' health and safety and developing flexible resourcing plans.

The Covid-19 pandemic continues to focus attention on the pressures faced by social care workers. Concern is also rising about the long term impact of the pandemic on mental health of care workers and the increasing risk of social care workers developing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Managers have a vital role to play in recognising the signs PTSD amongst their staff and teams and being able to direct them to appropriate support. A helpful resource is available from the All Wales Traumatic Stress Service Initiative - the resource is written for anyone supporting people who experience traumatic events and is full of practical information and toolkits managers can use to support their staff.

Hints and tips for managing teams during COVID-19

Healthier Scotland have developed a well-being hub for health and social care workers. There are resources for managers and leaders offering support on modelling self-care, supporting effective team working and supporting individual team members.

The Local Government Association has produced an Employer's Guide to help managers support the well-being of their staff.

It's useful to consider practical tips for changing how you manage your teams to adapt to the current circumstances. Forbes have produced their top six tips for managing staff during the COVID-19 crisis.

1. Acknowledge the difficulties

2. Mitigate the strains of digital and remote communication

3. Make time for emotional check-in's

4. Don't defer support for additional needs

5. Organise online well-being sessions

6. Establish boundaries

To promote workplace well-being, you might want to consider creating a 'Pause Pod', if your setting allows. A Pause Pod is a dedicated space for staff teams to take a moment of calm, rest or quiet reflection. It can be used before, during or after the working day and this can be defined by your operational needs. It is a quiet, calming space where you may like to access some self-care resources, refreshments or just a space to sit quietly. You might use the room to host a positive messages board where you and your team can leave messages of thanks, admiration and positivity. To ensure appropriate social distancing, you might stipulate that no more than two staff members use the room at the same time and use signage to indicate the room is in use.

It can be difficult to remain motivated during a prolonged period of stress and pressure. This article from the Kings Fund explains why our motivation can be affected and gives practical suggestions to help support managers and leaders maintain their energy.

Need mental health support at work? Able Futures can help you manage your mental health at work. Able Futures delivers the Access to Work Mental Health Support Service on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions. The support service is flexible and free to use.

If you are self-isolating and need help, then your local Covid-19 Mutual Aid UK (run by volunteers) can help you access local services, such as shops or pharmacies throughout the Covid-19 outbreak.

Information, help and support is available for those who are experiencing or know someone experiencing domestic abuse and sexual violence during the coronavirus emergency.

Information, help and support is available for those who are experiencing or know someone experiencing domestic abuse and sexual violence during the coronavirus emergency.

Majella runs online meet-ups for social workers everywhere to connect and share experiences, laughter and a bit of lightness to support ongoing work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Age Cymru is offering a check-in-and-chat telephone service for the over 70s in Wales who live alone. The initiative will help provide some reassurances to older people, answer basic queries and link people to local services and support.

The official twitter account for the Social Work Network provides daily updates, tips and resources on the coronavirus for social workers.

Children in Wales has developed a resource to help manage well-being during the coronavirus outbreak.

Trade unions are working in partnership with Social Care Wales to promote their wellbeing resources and support to care workers as widely as possible. The dedicated health and well-being page from the unions has information on courses, resources and tools that you can access for free.

The Wales TUC website hosts a series of bite-sized learning on the theme of Coping with Covid. The learning will give you tools and techniques to help you look after yourself during the coronavirus crisis.

Senedd Research provides useful information about coronavirus related to employment rights, benefits, business support, travel, food, retail, cancellations, education and lots more.

The Social Worker wellbeing and working conditions, Good Practice Toolkit is aimed at social workers in practice, social work supervisors, workforce development leads, managers, and leaders. For social workers in practice, the toolkit should help you be more informed and empowered to look after yourself better at work; recognise when you need support and how to access it; develop knowledge and skills to influence your organisation; and know your rights and what you should expect from your employer.

The Children's Commissioner for Wales has a coronavirus information hub for families and children.

The social worker toolbox has useful guides, tools and resources for parents and carers on how to talk to children about coronavirus.

Social Care Institute for Excellence has made available specific coronavirus advice for social care.

Children in Wales has developed a resource to help manage well-being during the coronavirus outbreak. The resource is downloadable; it includes tips on mindfulness, tips on how to relax and look after yourself during this turbulent time.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Health and well-being resources to help wellbeing be improved | Social Care Wales

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skip to main content Covid-19: Information, guidance and resources to support you through the pandemic Covid-19 homepage Your health and well-being We've developed a resource to support the health and well-being of social care workers during the coronavirus pandemic.

# data[].attributes.body
Short online videos on coping with covid

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Home life is different too. We may be missing family and friends or perhaps feeling trapped, isolated or afraid and as these uncertain times go on, we may be worrying about our job security and our finances. There's a lot to worry about and our mental health is under strain.

As trade unionists many of us will be supporting our communities and still be representing our members but we have to remember to look after ourselves too. These Coping with Covid sessions will help you do just that.

We spoke to Pam Heneberry from the Professional Development Centre about how we can look after our wellbeing during 2021.

In this session Pam talks about:

How to cope with changes during the pandemic

How to the winter weather can impact your wellbeing

How to use mindfulness to reduce anxiety

If you have any questions you would like to ask the trainers after watching the videos please contact Marion Burke on wtuc@tuc.org.uk.

Original Coping with Covid sessions

In 2020 we worked with the Professional Development Centre to produce these bite-sized wellbeing sessions:

We hope these sessions will give you tools and techniques to help you look after yourself and cope with the challenges of this pandemic. Each lesson includes a short video to watch as well as resources to read and think about.

So, take some time to look after yourself and join and enjoy these Coping with Covid sessions.

Pam Heneberry from the Professional Development Centre shows us how being self-aware can help us make educated and informed decisions.

Spending time and becoming more self-aware is a useful tool in self-development, especially thinking and being aware of:

our ideas

our thoughts

our feelings

how we behave in certain situations

what our strengths are

what our weaknesses are

what our talents are

You can also download Pam's slides accompanying this video.

If you have any questions about this session email us on wtuc@tuc.org.uk

Dr Arthur Turner from the Professional Development Centre shares how using self-coaching techniques help us deal with issues, anxieties and challenges in our lives.

Asking questions of ourselves is an important part of self-coaching:

* What have I been successful at in the past?
* What made me successful?
* How do other people describe me?
* What gives me energy? (Make a list)
* What drains my energy? (Make a list)
* What do I need to let go of?

You can find some more great questions in the practice pack, and Arthur's slides.
If you have any questions about this session email us on wtuc@tuc.org.uk

Pam Heneberry from the Professional Development Centre talks about Resilience; what is it and how can we get more of it?

Pam talks about the 4 C's that make up Resilience:

You can find some activities to help you become more resilient in the practice pack and in the slides accompanying this talk.

If you have any questions about this session email us on wtuc@tuc.org.uk

David Pardey from the Professional Development Centre shows us how to organise our workspace using the '5S' method:

Set In order

Standardise

And to these 5, David adds number 6 - Safety

Watch our video and use this handout to organise your home office.

If you have any questions about this session email us on wtuc@tuc.org.uk

Sally Crompton from the Professional Development Centre helps us identify the Values we hold most dearly.

Sally talks about the interplay between our:

Beliefs (Things that we know to be true even if we lack proof),

Values (The basis of our ethical decision making - what's right and what's wrong),

Attitudes (How our beliefs and values lead us to assess others and events),

and how, together, they affect our wellbeing and personal development.

Download this session's slides. The second part of this session looking at nature will be available next week.

If you have any questions about this session email us on wtuc@tuc.org.uk

Reflection

What is it?

Why is it important?

How do you do it?

Sally Crompton from the Professional Development Centre explains how using the skills of critical reflection can help you to achieve better outcomes for yourself, your colleagues and your organisation.

Download the Reflection and Reflexive practice slides.

If you have any questions about this session email us on wtuc@tuc.org.uk

Suddenly, and for many of us for the first time, we are reliant on technology to 'intermediate' our conversations with others. David will help us understand how we can ensure our conversations remain as effective as possible in lockdown.

You can download a handout accompanying David's video with more information on the Shannon-Weaver model of communication.

If you have any questions about this session email us on wtuc@tuc.org.uk

Pam introduces you to the Circle of Influence, a practical tool to help you feel more in control. This tactic will help you use your energies wisely and think proactively, rather than reactively, to fight any feelings of being overwhelmed.

Download our Coping with Covid - Circle of Influence resource accompanying this video. We've also included a link to The 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey, as recommended by Pam.

If you have any questions about this session email us on wtuc@tuc.org.uk

Walking is not only great exercise but can also help improve mental and physical wellbeing. Arthur explains how regular walking is a good tool for both reflection and stress reduction. He shares some great tips such as noticing your environment during your walk and using facetime to share your walk with a friend or family member.

Download our Coping with Covid - Self Talk resource to find out how to identify and counter negative thoughts. We've also uploaded Sally's PowerPoint presentation. You can also find a link to a recording of Sue Knight's Ted Talk, 'The Words I Tell Myself', mentioned by Sally in her presentation.

If you have any questions about this session email us on wtuc@tuc.org.uk

Significant changes in our lives can cause anxiety and stress. This session looks at how emotions shape our thinking and behaviour. It will also teach you to recognise your emotional state, using this knowledge to take back some control in your life.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Coping with Covid - bite-size wellbeing sessions

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Home life is different too. We may be missing family and friends or perhaps feeling trapped, isolated or afraid and as these uncertain times go on, we may be worrying about our job security and our finances. There's a lot to worry about and our mental health is under strain.

# data[].attributes.body
Short online personal resilience course

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
As COVID-19 disrupts our daily routines and creates a new level of stress, it is important to prioritize your mental health & wellbeing.

We have developed new content specifically to support people as they navigate the current COVID-19 crisis. This is available in the Space from COVID-19 programme below.

While the Sleep, Resilience and Stress programmes do not specifically address the COVID-19 crisis, you will also have the option to add a tailored module called Challenging Times to your programme. This module provides mental health support for anyone dealing with difficult emotions and situations, brought on by COVID-19.

Unsure?

Check out our How It Works page for more information about using SilverCloud.

Or, to find out more about improving your wellbeing, check out our wellbeing tips. Go

Based on your answers to the wellbeing quiz see below a list of programs that might be suitable for you.

Suitable Programmes

Other Programmes

>Your Wellbeing

Wellbeing Tips

If you would just like to find out more about improving your wellbeing. Go

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
As COVID-19 disrupts our daily routines and creates a new level of stress, it is important to prioritize your mental health & wellbeing. We have developed new content specifically to support people as they navigate the current COVID-19 crisis. This is available in the Space from COVID-19 programme below.

# data[].attributes.body
If you are managing a care setting and have experienced grief and loss throughout the pandemic, get in touch to see what support we can offer to you and your staff on wellbeing@socialcare.wales

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Covid-19: Information, guidance and resources to support you through the pandemic

Covid-19 homepage

Supporting end of life care in social care settings during Covid-19

Social care settings provide end of life care and bereavement support in often difficult environments. Their work is now significantly complicated by the restrictions and challenges Covid-19 presents. Here are resources offering support and practical advice on aspects of providing end of life care and in offering bereavement support. They have been chosen by Social Care Wales with the help of people from across the UK*.

We will all react differently when we approach the end of our lives. So it is for the people you care for. Some will understand what is happening, some won't, some will be scared, others will find a sense of peace. Talk to the person you are caring for or the people who know them well, to find out what matters most to them. You can use this information to provide comfort in a person's final moments, acknowledging the life they have had and the person that they are. What you're doing is one of the most important things you can do for another human being.

Connection

What helps them feel connected to the people that they love?

Comfort

What makes them feel safe and cared for?

Are they physically comfortable? Are they clean? Is their hair brushed? Is their dignity being protected? If you feel they are in pain or discomfort, contact their GP or named healthcare professional

Can you play familiar music or provide favourite foods or treats?

Are there ways to ensure physical comfort by holding a hand, providing a favourite blanket, cushion or item of clothing?

Are there any religious or spiritual things that bring the person comfort e.g. a favourite reading or prayer, a hymn or a video call from their faith/spiritual leader

How can you keep the environment calm by avoiding loud noise and bright light, making sure all carers feel confident to give support even if they are in an unfamiliar situation?

Are there things they normally enjoy doing such as music, TV or gardening - how can you creatively support these activities in the current situation? Can you bring in flowers from the garden into their room? Sit and listen to their favourite music with them? Read from a favourite book?

Communication

What helps them and their loved ones to understand the things that are happening and the choices they may have to make?

Think about what the person knows or understands already

Be with the person from where they are. Perhaps they know what they want, so honour their decision making, or perhaps they are confused or have memory difficulties. They may still be fearful even if they cannot express their fears or wishes. Be with them and offer comfort using some of the ideas suggested.

Think about reflecting the words and language that they use to talk about their health, this means using the same sort of words they use

Think about using clear and unambiguous words to avoid confusion even if those words do not feel comfortable, for example, dying

Think about allowing silence and tears if they have just heard bad news or if they sense their life is ending - sometimes just being there with them is all that is needed

Think about who you can ask if they have questions that you don't feel able to answer. As a team, create a list of healthcare professionals involved in their care that can be contacted if you need advice.

A communication chart has been specifically designed to support communication during the Covid-19 pandemic is available free to download in several languages.

One of the biggest challenges in supporting people who are dying with Covid-19 is having to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Many people will find it harder to hear or understand you when your mouth is hidden from them when you are wearing masks and visors. Here are some ideas to help you ensure clear communication and that you are able to deliver care compassionately when wearing PPE.

Clear communication

Ask if there is anything you can do to make it easier for the person to hear you

Check whether they have a hearing aid (and whether it works)

Do they find it easier hearing from one ear?

Make sure background noise is as low as possible

Speak clearly and slowly - increasing volume on its own may not help

Look after your voice - avoid shouting and give your voice a rest sometimes, drink plenty of water

Use short sentences and check their understanding

If you need to, use a notepad, tablet, whiteboard or flashcards to help.

Caring communication

We show we care for someone and help them to trust us with our facial expression, tone of voice and gestures as well as the words we use. This can be more limited with PPE, and some people may become more anxious.

Sit at the level of the person whenever possible

Use your eyes to connect and express your smile and concern

Think about the tone of voice you use - try to reassure and remain calm

Consider bringing a photo of yourself without a mask to help them to know the 'real' you and/or attaching it to your uniform. Ensure your picture and name is big enough and placed somewhere that it is easy for the person to see

Use hand gestures to underline the things you are saying.

What can I say?

Be yourself - talk about everyday things, don't let the mask make you forget the great communication skills you already have!

Acknowledge that the mask makes talking a bit awkward, and that you understand how it might make them feel. Ask them how it is for them.

Think about the reactions or emotions you might show in your face and try to put them into words "I'm pleased you said that", "I'm sad that this has happened to you"

Show you are listening to them. Be patient, summarise what you are hearing and check you have understood them

Don't be afraid to be silent with them, don't rush away when you have finished speaking - sometimes being present with someone can communicate more care than anything else.

Talking to children about PPE

PPE can look scary for children and if they see staff wearing protective equipment to take care of them or a loved one, this may make them fearful or anxious. They may even question what they see on the television. Here is a little advice on how to explain:
"When we work with something that could hurt us or is dangerous people need to wear items to protect them so they can fight it. Firemen wear visors to protect their faces from fire, policemen wear body braces to protect their bodies, dentists use goggles to stop the spray in their eyes, superheroes wear capes to shield them! Nurses and doctors need to stay safe from the coronavirus so they can fight it, so sometimes need to wear masks, goggles and aprons, this is their superhero cape!"

You may well be the carer that someone chooses as their safe person to ask difficult questions. This can be a difficult position to be in. Sometimes you will feel that someone else should be answering the questions, but they have chosen you for a reason. That is usually because they trust you or have established a relationship with you and this makes you the 'best person' to have this conversation even if you don't want to be.

There may be times when, because of personal circumstances for instance, you know that you are not in the right 'emotional space' to support a difficult conversation and it is important to acknowledge this:

"I am really touched that you trust me to ask this difficult question, I know this must be difficult. I really don't think I am the right person right now to have this conversation but I can see it is important to you - is there someone else you feel happy to talk to?"

Examples of difficult questions could be 'am I going to die?' 'will I get better?' 'will someone be with me?' or 'can I go to hospital for treatment?'. Please do not ignore these important conversations. They can feel overwhelming but think about what you would want if it was you asking the question. Do not brush these questions away with comments like ' you don't need to be worrying about that' or making false reassurances 'of course you will get better'. People are looking for reassurance and compassion and we can give this without making any false promises or giving answers to questions that are not within our scope of practice.

Try and buy yourself even a few moments of time to compose yourself - maybe just count to 3 or say something like 'that sounds like a really important question, let me just grab a chair so we can sit down and talk about it'. Even the act of pulling up a chair can give you a few seconds to breathe deeply and think about how you are going to answer a difficult question.

Often answering a difficult question with another question will help discover what it is that is causing the anxiety, for example, 'am I going to die?' could be answered with ' that is a big question, what has made you ask that?".

Difficult questions like this are often not about wanting the answer, they are often about just wanting to talk about anxieties so listen more than talk and allow some silences to let the person know that this is difficult. If it is possible and allowed, use some physical contact by holding a hand or resting a hand on their arm. Most importantly maintain good eye contact - this is particularly important if wearing a mask.

If people need specific information or reassurance, for example, about medication or symptom relief, feel confident about saying that you can't answer that question but you will find someone who can. Make sure you follow this up.

Circumstances are frequently changing, you can access the most up to date information on allowing visits on the Care Inspectorate Wales website and on the Welsh Government website.

Families and friends will be distressed that they were not able to be with their relatives when they were unwell or when they died or were not able to be with them in the way that they would have liked. Take time with these conversations and think about what would help you if you were in their position.

Being prepared

Always allow yourself some preparation time. You need to be in the best 'emotional space' possible. You may only have a very short time to do this but it can still be done well. Think about what you would want in the situation and how you can best show care and compassion.

Make sure you have a quiet space in which to make the call. Try to make sure you will not be disturbed by other phones ringing or people coming in and out of the room

Make sure that you know the names of the relevant people - the person you are talking about, the person you are phoning and perhaps any other important family member. This will help you to make the call personal.

If you are able to speak to family members face to face, consider how to make the environment feel comfortable and safe. Find a space where you won't be disturbed and where you can both sit comfortably. Make sure you will have all the time the family member may need. If the space is outside or near a shared area, consider confidentiality. Check the family member is happy to talk in the environment you have identified. Have things the family member may need, for example, have tissues available and easily within their reach. Abide by any current restrictions such as social distancing, check the Care Inspectorate Wales website for current guidance.

Have the relevant information handy - think about the questions people are likely to ask and get the responses or signposting information ready. These questions might include what is going to happen now to their loved one, where will they be taken, who organises a funeral director, how they can access bereavement support, and who they can contact if they have questions.

Think about how you are going to start the conversation - it is a delicate balance between a little bit of introduction and getting to the point. People will know you have a reason for the call/visit.

We tend to talk faster when we're anxious so make an effort to slow down and allow time for what you are saying to be heard. Counting to 3 in your head in between sentences can help slow things down.

"Hello, my name is xxxx. I am one of the team who looks after xxxx. I need to talk to you about xxxx. Can I just check that you are okay to talk for a few minutes? Do you need to find somewhere quiet?"

During the conversation
"I am really sorry to have to tell you this but sadly xxxx died this morning/ afternoon/ evening, I want you to know that it was very peaceful and I/xxxx was/were with them." "I am really sorry to have to tell you this but sadly xxxx has become very unwell and we are very concerned about them. They are very poorly at the moment and we are not sure if they can recover"
"I understand this is very difficult to hear, please take a few moments ......"

Words you can say

Acknowledge that this is a very difficult situation and that you can understand that it is causing distress:
"I can't imagine how hard this is for you, I know if circumstances were different you would want to come and say goodbye and I am so sorry that is not possible"
"I can't imagine how hard this is for you. We know circumstances with Covid make this even harder and I'm so sorry this is the case"
"Is there anything you would like to do/ say to xxxx before they leave us?" Or if that is not possible

"Is there anything you would like me to do/ say to xxxx before they leave us?"
"I understand that this is really difficult and you are feeling angry about the situation, is there anything I can do/ tell you to help you feel closer to xxxx"
Acknowledge that people may feel angry as well as upset:
"We did everything we could to make sure they were not in pain/ not scared and someone was with them, we know in an ideal situation they would have had family with them but please be assured we made sure they knew they were loved and valued"
"We are doing everything we can to make them comfortable and making sure they have the right sort of care; I know it is difficult hearing this and knowing you can't come to see them but is there anything you would like us to tell them"
Ask if they have any questions and be prepared to answer questions about what the last few hours/ minutes of their loved one's life was like and who was with them. Answer their questions as truthfully but as kindly as you can:

If they are able to see their relative they may be frustrated by restrictions. Allow them to voice their frustration and listen intently. Resist the urge to interrupt, placate them or give reasons. Acknowledge their frustration:

"I can't imagine how difficult this is for you and your family. I'm so sorry".

Consider if there is a compromise that you can safely offer.

Don't be tempted to give lots of detail that they haven't asked for. There will be time for that when people are ready to ask. Answer the questions that are asked and give time for people to take in what they have been told but do not feel you have to fill in the gaps.

Once you have answered any questions check that you have told them everything they need to know. This might include what will happen next, anything they need to know about registering the death or contacting the funeral director.

"I appreciate this has been very difficult news to hear, it is a lot to try and take in but do you have any questions, is there anything you would like me to go over?"

Check in with the person that they have understood the news and any information you have given:

If you have had to speak over the phone you could check to see if they would like any information sending by text or email so they have it in writing (check that you are able to do this before offering it).

Ideas you can offer

After the conversation

Look after yourself. These situations are emotionally difficult and exhausting. Take a short break, get a cup of tea or talk to a colleague or friend before you go back to normal duties. Let your colleagues know that you have had this difficult conversation so they can support you too.

Supporting Making Choices

Young adults, broadly those aged 18-40 years, may have differing needs, specific to their individual circumstances. Cater the care you provide to their age, understanding and preferences and most importantly, as with all care, treat them as an individual, taking into account what matters to them.

Legally, any adult who has mental capacity, has the right to be supported to make their own choices about their care. If someone has been assessed as not having capacity this does not mean that they can't be involved in decision making. Consider their abilities and how best to involve them. Find out what matters to them. Decisions around things that matter to them and that bring comfort are just as important. If someone is nonverbal look at their physical cues to try and establish their wishes. Ask those who know them well to help you with this, including close friends and family members. Equally, it is their right not to make decisions if they choose not to. A GP or named healthcare professional must be involved in these discussions if it relates to their clinical care.

On this Social Care Wales resource you can find more information on the Mental Capacity Act and our detailed resource on advance care planning.

Make sure that the person has all the information they need to weigh up a decision, and that it is presented in a way that they can understand. Here are some resources from the Social Care Institute for Excellence and Marie Curie that can help you with this.

You can find more detailed information on providing end of life care for someone with a learning disability in these resources produced by Marie Curie and PCPLD.

Here are some 'easy-read' resources produced by Marie Curie to help support those with additional learning needs.

They may find it helpful to consider the information and their preferences with a close friend or family member. Find out who they would like to support them if they have decisions to make. Consider using video calls or other means to help make this possible.

Remember that making choices is much more than clinical care. The person may want to let you know choices and decisions about their personal affairs or they may want to leave messages for people to have after they have died. Here is a template that can help support someone to think about what they would like to say.

If someone uses communication aides or assistive technology, ensure that the staff member supporting them is confident and very able in supporting their use.

For some young adults, access to their online social network will be very important, consider ways in which you can help continue to make this accessible to them.

Being in a stressful situation or feeling strong emotions can have a particular impact on young adults when they have choices to make. Give time to consider decisions when the person is not feeling under pressure or distressed.

For people who are not able to communicate their own needs when they are unwell or in distress

Make sure that all carers know how this particular person may express distress. For example: changes in facial expression, making different noises, paleness, sweating, or unusual movements or stiffness

Make sure that all carers knows ways and means of providing comfort to this particular person

Here is a communication chart specifically designed to support communication during the Covid-19 pandemic and is available in multiple languages.

Identify the things that sometimes cause them distress. Check for constipation, difficulty breathing or coughing, pain, anxiety, discomfort with feeds, unwelcome sensory stimulation

Look for practical things that may relieve different symptoms: This might include changing their position to relieve pain or breathlessness, giving medication, making sure they have calm reassuring surroundings, or distracting with a familiar activity. If you have any concerns consult with their clinical team.

Know where to find help if you are concerned about the person's distress - have a list of people to call for advice. This should include the person's doctor, but might also be a family member or carer who understands their needs well

Care for friends and family

Many young adults have a wide network of friends and family including online friendship groups and peers who share a similar health or care situation. All of these people may be sources of support for the person in your care, but they may also need support themselves.

If possible make a plan with the person in your care about who they want to be contacted in different situations and how much information they want shared.

Be careful to respect everyone's confidentiality while looking out for people who may be struggling. If you are concerned about anyone, suggest to them that they contact their doctor, local palliative care or bereavement team

Don't assume all friends and family will understand or respect each other's importance in the person's life

Leaving well

If possible, it is important to give people a chance to prepare for dying in their own way. This can also give the people left behind reassurance and memories. They may like to consider:

As a social care professional during the Covid-19 crisis you may find yourself supporting bereaved children and young people or offering advice to families who are recently bereaved and have to explain to their children what has happened. The resource below offers practical suggestions and information to help you.

As an adult it is often difficult for us to talk about death, the topic is still somewhat a taboo and our own anxieties can make this feel very uncomfortable. Talking to children about death can make us feel protective, wanting to protect them from the knowledge of death. However, this can in fact make the children more anxious about the unknown. Children are very attuned to adult's emotions and often the unknown is scarier for a child than the truth. The truth can be managed and it is very important for children to understand that death is a part of life and that any emotions they are experiencing are ok.

Talking to children - top tips

Don't be afraid of 'saying the wrong thing' or 'making things worse' - this has already happened. Your conversation will only support the child and young person.

Be yourself, use your own language.

Be aware of your own cultures/beliefs about death.

Don't assume the child knows the person is dying or has died.

Try and speak with children/young people as soon as you can. If they are aware someone has the coronavirus they may be waiting for news.

Think about your environment, find a quiet space where they can have your full attention.

Think about whether you will speak to all siblings at the same time, or older children first. This will depend of the ages of the children and the family circumstances.

Be honest - children know when we are hiding things and this can make them feel like they cannot trust us.

Always refer to the person who has died by their name.

Be sensitive and listen to the child.

Share your own experiences.

Ask about their memories and experiences of the person who has died. What kind of person they were? What are their favourite memories? Allow them to talk about them.

Never use euphemisms such as 'gone away', 'gone to sleep', or 'up in the sky'. These are lovely sentiments but can confuse a child and does not give them the permanence of the situation. Use the correct terminology such as 'died', 'death' or 'dying'.

Don't shut down a child as this may make them feel they should not ask questions

Allow children to ask questions and give them answers as honestly as you can. Questions that children frequently ask include: Why did they die? How did they die? Why do people die? Will I die? Will mummy die too? What happens when you die?

Here are some useful responses to help explain death to children:

"Death is a part of life and all things die, but this only happens when someone is so ill and the doctors cannot make them better.""Our body doesn't work anymore" "People who are well don't just die, and there is no reason to think they will."

"What do you think happens when you die?"

Some families may have religious beliefs about what happens when someone dies, but invite the child to have their own perception.

Don't be afraid to talk about what happens next such as funeral directors and burial/cremation. Explain that they can say their own goodbyes. Given the current restrictions with funerals ask how they may like it to look and encourage their involvement in creating a meaningful way to say goodbye.

Don't assume the child will be sad about the death. Depending on their age, children will often accept the fact and continue with their daily activities. Children live for the here and now. The table below gives some idea of how their understanding might vary by age.

Let the child grieve in a way that they wish to. Every person grieves differently, and any emotion is allowed.

Name the emotion you are seeing in the child to help them understand their feelings.

Ask if the child would like to do some memory activities, but accept that at this time they may not want to. This can be revisited when they are ready.

Ask if there is anyone in particular they would like to speak to for support, they may have someone they trust and feel supported by.

Memory making ideas

Make a memory box - this can be made with a shoe box, or any box within the home. The child can put items in the box that remind them of the person who died, for example, photos, stories or pictures. The child can decorate the box to give them a sense of ownership.

Light a special candle in memory.

The child may want to give the person an item of theirs (teddy bear) to be with them.

Create a worry jar, a memory jar, or memory bracelets.

Understanding death: age and stage

This resource shows how children understand death and at what stage of their lives.

Explaining coronavirus to children

These resources are designed to help explain coronavirus to children:

These websites provide further advice on offering bereavement support:

Many in social care in Wales are being asked to provide compassionate end of life care in social care settings. This is hugely emotionally challenging for many staff. Teams and their leaders can help.

Team leaders modelling compassionate leadership:

What else can team leaders do?

Ensure there is a clear statement of the higher purpose of the team's work that all understand and is repeatedly reaffirmed - such as enabling patients, service users, clients to live and die feeling safe surrounded by love and care

Encourage team members to model compassionate support for each other during these challenging times - listening, understanding, empathising and helping. They can help by showing kindness and compassion and checking in with each other.

Minimise hierarchy and boundaries within the team and when possible encourage eating together, having coffee together etc.

Encourage team members to recognise that though we tend to focus on technical training - the focus should be at least as much (if not more) on how we work as supportive, compassionate team members

Encourage team members to help each other by acknowledging and validating each other's feelings.

Ensure the team has regular time to reflect, share, and to plan and review together. In these critical times this should be daily such as at the start and end of shifts, and with some scheduled longer reviews whenever possible.

Trust is key - faith in each other's inherent goodness and faith in the abilities/skills of others.

Particularly at this time, leaders must convey their:

Authenticity

Openness and honesty

Optimism

Appreciativeness

And of course, compassion.

Here are some links that offer further support and thoughts on compassionate leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic:

All lives are precious, and you may wish to do some memory making with or for families depending on the circumstances. You may also wish to take time as a team to mark the loss and pay your respects.

Some simple ideas are:

The British Association of Social Workers and the Association of Palliative Care Social Workers have developed resources to support social workers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The following links give advice about aspects of practice, use of PPE and supporting end of life care.

Conversations about end of life wishes can be uncomfortable and even distressing. It is important to respect the individual's right to express their wishes to you and to not shut the conversation down.

Marie Curie, a charity supporting people through terminal illness, has produced resources to help support you. The resources provide advice on how to have the conversation in a sensitive, empathic and ethical manner.

The Northern Ireland Social Care Council has produced this 10 minute film to guide you through difficult conversations about end of life wishes. It poses some of the questions the person you care for may want to think about.

The following prompts, developed by Hospice of the Valleys, will help support discussions around end of life wishes:

Advance planning discussions can help prevent unnecessary and unwanted hospital admissions, by understanding what matters to the person

They may want to discuss what treatment or care they do not want, there is more information below on making an Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment.

They may want to discuss appointing a Lasting Power of Attorney and deciding who will make decisions if they lose the capacity to do so. (There is information in the section below for those who are assessed as not having capacity.)

It can be an opportunity for a person to manage affairs and consider making a will, or telling someone where their will is

It can include discussing the person's preferred place of care and/or preferred place of death

It might involve providing emotional support to the person to enable them to discuss their wishes with their family or a close friend. In current circumstances you may need to support the use of video calling to help facilitate this.

You may need to provide emotional support to family members who find discussing their loved one's wishes difficult

Discussions might include financial planning, for example, releasing life or critical illness insurance, accessing bank accounts, listing policies/pensions, making benefit applications, all of which enable the person with the illness to die knowing their family are supported

The person may wish to discuss who will look after their pets after they die

They might want the opportunity to give possessions to loved ones, or plan accordingly for these items to be passed on

A person may want to plan their funeral. They can do this by sharing their ideas and wishes or by working directly with a funeral director to plan and pre-pay for their funeral. There are current restrictions around what is possible and for more information see advice on post-death care and funeral arrangements

They may want to make decisions about their digital legacy

They may discuss with you their spiritual/religious beliefs and how they want these served in the event of their deterioration or death

They may have ideas for things they want to do and how to spend remaining time. Current circumstances are restrictive but even small gestures and experiences can be meaningful. They may want to watch their favourite film, eat a favourite treat, look at photographs or share memories. More information on Offering comfort and delivering bad news to relatives who cannot be with their loved ones

They may want reassurance that their family will be supported through their bereavement

They may want to discuss and explore with you what life has meant, what hope means, or what values are important

They may want to share treasured memories

The person may want to plan lasting messages to those they love.

It is important to make sure that the person has all the information they need to make informed decisions, and that it is presented in a way that they can understand. Here are some resources from the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) and Marie Curie that can help you.

Compassion in Dying has produced resources to support advance planning discussions during Covid-19. You can also find a template for an advance statement. This is not a legally binding document but provides a template on which someone can record their preferences and wishes.

Dying Matters Wales or Live Now/Byw Nawr host a YouTube channel with a variety of short films explaining different aspects of advance care planning that you may find helpful.

It is now common for people of all ages to have access to the internet and/or for information about them to be available on the internet. This online information is known as the persons 'digital legacy'. Below is the Digital Legacy Association's definition:

'A digital legacy is the digital information that is available about someone following their death. Someone's digital legacy is often shaped by interactions the person made and information that they created before they died. This might include their social media profiles, online conversations, photos, videos, gaming profiles and their website or blog.

Someone's digital legacy can also be informed by content that is created or co-created by others. This may include interactions that have occurred on someone else's social media wall or stream. Someone's digital legacy might also informed by what others have posted online about the person in a newspaper, blog or external website.'

End of life wishes can explore what the options are for how they would like their digital legacy to be managed. Here are resources to support peoples decision making about their digital legacy.

Social Care Wales have curated resources on providing care for those with dementia during Covid-19. There is also a specific resource on supporting someone with dementia to express their wishes.

The Social Care Institute for Excellence has produced resources on providing end of life care for those with Dementia. These are not Covid-19 specific resources but they contain lots of useful information that is still relevant.

Hospice for the Valleys offer a 'Cariad' service for people living with Dementia. The below offers prompts to consider when delivering end of life care to those with dementia:

The CARIAD model for Palliative and EOL dementia Care

C - Connect, the importance of feeling connected to someone cannot be underestimated. More than anything families and those living with dementia need time with professionals to explore feelings and concerns. Peer support for the carer is also important, having the confidence to specifically address anticipatory and ambiguous grief and the concept of losing a person to dementia can have a positive impact on reducing feelings of grief and loss and can even prevent complicated grief and bereavement issues.

A - Ask, family members and friends hold key information about someone's past and this can provide vital information in enabling professionals to connect with the person and understand the world through their lens.

R - Reminisce, the power of the mind and its ability to transport people to other times in the life should be utilised with people living with a dementia diagnosis. If used correctly and linked with information provided by family members this can be an excellent way to calm and distract people when they are feeling upset or agitated.

I - initiate conversations, advance care planning can be important for somebody with a dementia diagnosis. Initiating conversations around preferred place of care, future support needs and concerns allows families time to consider what they would like their future to look like. Lasting power of attorney paperwork should be explained and completed where possible. This reduces feelings of guilt and anxiety when the person with dementia deteriorates and their care needs change as this can be dealt with from the viewpoint of the person rather than family members and professionals having to make best interest decisions.

A - Appreciate the world experienced by the person living with dementia. How a person experiences the world changes over time due to a dementia diagnosis. Senses like taste and touch can change so someone may not like the same things or be more sensitive to touch. Vision is also affected and should be considered when approaching a person to ensure you don't shock or scare the person.

D - Demonstrate compassion when working with people with a dementia diagnosis and their family members.

Dr Megumi Baba, Consultant in Transitional and Paediatric Palliative Medicine, Ty Hafan Hospice and Cardiff and Vale Health Board

Anna Bowyer, Play Therapist, Ty Hafan Hospice

Dr Jo Elverson, Consultant in Palliative Medicine, St Oswald's hospice

Sarah Harries, Palliative Care Social Worker, Hospice of the Valleys

Tracy Jones, Social Worker and Head of Community Services and Partnerships, Ty Hafan Hospice

Dr Julie Latchem-Hastings, HCRW Postdoctoral Fellow, Centre for Trials Research, College of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Cardiff University

Jonathan Pearce, Social Worker and Family Support Lead, Hospice of the Valleys

Lynne Phelps, Play Therapist, Ty Hafan Hospice

Professor Michael West, Senior Visiting Fellow, The King's Fund, Professor of Organizational Psychology, Lancaster University.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Supporting end of life care in social care settings during Covid-19

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skip to main content Covid-19: Information, guidance and resources to support you through the pandemic Covid-19 homepage Supporting end of life care in social care settings during Covid-19 Social care settings provide end of life care and bereavement support in often difficult environments. Their work is now significantly complicated by the restrictions and challenges Covid-19 presents.