With the threat of quarantine for offices where individuals have been diagnosed with Coronavirus, we would like to reassure our clients that we have it all covered. All of our systems, including our phone and case management systems, will work from anywhere – even at home or isolation.

So, if we have to close the office for any reason, we can carry on working, ensuring you have no interruption to your matter.

We know it is a worrying time for many and we are taking all of the precautions we can – we have stopped shaking hands with visitors (although this feels very difficult) and we have always had hand gel on the counter in reception anyway. Below is advice about the coronavirus from the NHS UK website.

So What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It’s caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What’s the risk of coronavirus in the UK?

The UK Chief Medical Officers have raised the risk to the public from low to moderate.

Health professionals are working to contact anyone who has been in close contact with people who have coronavirus.

What’s the risk of coronavirus for travellers?

There are some countries and areas where there’s a higher chance of coming into contact with someone with coronavirus.

See coronavirus advice for travellers.

Symptoms of coronavirus

The symptoms of coronavirus are:

• a cough
• a high temperature
• shortness of breath

But these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness.

The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu.

How coronavirus is spread

Because it’s a new illness, we do not know exactly how coronavirus spreads from person to person.

Similar viruses are spread in cough droplets.

It’s very unlikely it can be spread through things like packages or food.

How to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus

Do

• wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
• always wash your hands when you get home or into work
• use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
• cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
• put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards
• try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell

Don’t

• do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean

What to do if you think you might have coronavirus

If you think you might have coronavirus or you’ve been in close contact with someone who has it:

• stay at home and avoid close contact with other people
• do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital
• use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do next

The 111 coronavirus service will tell you if you need to continue to stay at home (self-isolate) or if you need medical help.

We will keep your matter safe

We changed our systems some time ago to ensure business continuity, whatever happens in life. Whilst we were thinking more flood or fire, it does mean you and your matter are protected from this most recent of threats.

If you feel unwell, please don’t worry about cancelling your appointment – we can always talk over the phone or wait until you are better.

If you have any worries or concerns about your matter please don’t hesitate to call us on 01420 82881.