We answer your questions

This is a confusing time for many of us. Understandably, we’ve had lots of people calling us to ask questions about My Life, such as ‘are you still open?’ And ‘can I travel to you safely?’

We thought it might help if we gave answers to the main questions we’ve been asked. So here they are!

Is My Life still open?

As a charity My Life provides support to the community in several different ways. 

We are following Government guidance to ensure that we can continue to be available to all our members at this difficult time.  Each one has been appointed a key worker from My Life, who will provide them with up to date information and advice on a weekly basis.

We cannot stress enough – it is essential, if you or anyone in your home has any concerns about, or symptoms of Covid – 19, that you follow government guidelines.

Here’s an overview of what’s happening in our different areas:

My Life Support

My Life Support is continuing in its current form. Thanks to the commitment of our staff, we are working with all our families to keep support within peoples’ homes, regardless of the current situation.

My Life Learning

Our My Life Learning students are learning at home using resources that we have provided. The My Life Learning Team are also giving them virtual learning support, so learning has not stopped!

My Life Day Opportunities at Standish and Leigh

Our Day Opportunities continue to be open for all those members who are unable to be supported at home during the day, for example:

• If their family members are key workers or are not in good health themselves (not from Covid-19)
• If it is deemed by a medical/social care professional to be in the best interest of the individual member and/or their family

We are still there for all our other Day Opportunities members and key workers will continue to support them remotely by telephone and or email, with tailor made support as and when they need it.

Chalet facilities

Our three accessible chalets are available for essential use to our members. We’re also working alongside the Local Authorities to see how the chalets might be of use to others too.

Advocacy service

We are continuing to support people through our Advocacy service, although face to face meetings are not be possible. For this reason, we’re supporting people virtually, through telephone, email and letters.

Our animals

Our animals continue to be cared for with love and are very happy roaming their fields and snuggling in their enclosures!

The Stable Door Café

The Stable Door Café is closed to the public following government guidance, however we are offering a hamper delivery service to the local area at reasonable prices! Full of fresh local produce and scrummy fruit and vegetables, call 01257 472 900 or email info@my-life.org.uk for more information.

Is travelling to My Life considered essential travel?

If you have received notification from your medical or social care professional that attending My Life is in the best interest of the member concerned and/or their family then this could be argued to be essential. 

HOWEVER it is the responsibility of the person driving to My Life to ensure that all measures are in place to prevent contact with any other people en route. They must also make sure that their car is roadworthy and has enough fuel to get them to My Life and home again.

What is My Life doing to ensure people are safe on site?

We are following all NHS guidance on handwashing and sanitizing contact points (door handles, telephones, desks etc.)

We have also implemented social distancing measures, which means that everyone must be at least two metres apart and there must be no more than two people in one space (unless a member is supported by two staff).

How long will My Life be open?

My Life remains open following guidance by the government and will remain open unless they instruct us otherwise.

Does My Life have any hand sanitizer to sell?

Sorry, the answer to this is no. Unfortunately, we are unable to sell any of our sanitizing products due to supply demand.

Where can we buy masks and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

Due to demand, there is currently a national supply shortage in PPE. You should contact your health professional for advice if you are concerned that your staff need any PPE.

Is My Life continuing to take referrals?

Yes, we are continuing to take referrals.  We are more than happy to have a conversation with you and begin the referral process, however, start dates maybe delayed until we have more clarity from the government on timescales.

We hope all the above has helped, but if you have any other questions, please do call us on 01257 472 900 or email info@my-life.org.uk.