We all know times have been tough over the two years. Everybody has been affected in their own way by the coronavirus outbreak, and there’s nothing wrong with needing help from time to time.
We've detailed tips and advice below to help you cope with everything that’s gone on. From financial support, to employment advice, we’ve pulled together some of the most useful info so that you can get the help that's available to you.
Working from home advice and returning to work support
Many of us have had to get used to working from home. There have definitely been advantages, like not having to commute. But that doesn’t mean it’s been easy – especially with kids to look after.
So whether you are still working from home, returning to work or returning to working from home, the pages below can help you.
Support with your mental health
We all know how strange and difficult the last year has been. This has been the most uncertain and challenging time that many of us have ever faced. From the strain on our relationships from being stuck at home, to the general anxiety that coronavirus has created, there isn't much that hasn't been impacted. And many of us have sadly lost loved ones during this time.
It’s okay not to feel okay at this time. Being a parent is the toughest job in the world without a global pandemic to worry about. And it is okay to ask for help if you need it. We have some advice to help you with your mental health at this time. We also have links to other sources of practical support to help you through.
Children’s mental health
This has been a difficult period for kids as well as grown ups. Teenagers and older children may be worried about what the pandemic means for their future and have struggled being cut off from their friends. Younger children will have been confused as to why they haven't been going to school or nursery and why they haven’t been able to give granny a hug. And you might find that your wee one is clingier than usual.
We have advice to help you support your child’s mental wellbeing. We also have info on the practical things you can do now, as well as links to other organisations that offer support.
Advice for soon-to-be parents and new parents
Being a new or expectant parent can be a scary time. It’s been even harder as people have been separated from the support their family can offer. The restrictions around maternity care have caused understandable uncertainty too.
We have some advice for both new and expectant parents to support their mental health during this time. We also have up-to-date guidance on maternity care and immunisations.