Updated 23.06.2020
Over the last couple of weeks, the Government has been starting to ease lockdown restrictions. We expect these restrictions to be loosened further in the coming days, weeks, and months. Whilst we have more freedom to visit shops, exercise, and meet up with people from outside our household, the principle of social distancing remains in force. We urge you to continue to take steps to keep yourself safe at this time. Our service is adapting to reflect these changing rules whilst, importantly continuing to adhere to social distancing.
As ever, the safety of you and your family is our number one priority and as we adapt to the new normal we are doing everything we can to keep you safe. Guidance is changing quickly, however, one thing we are certain of is that Coronavirus, and the danger it presents, is not going anywhere. We are making decisions with this in mind and our service will continue to reflect this risk.
Changes to Our Service as We Adapt To the New Normal:
Office Work
- Our main office remains closed. With adherence to social distancing in mind, our team continues to work remotely and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.
Reporting a Repair
- Our Repairs Service is now carrying out Routine Repairs. Previously, we had only been able to carry out Urgent or Emergency Repairs, however, we can now carry out all jobs.
- We will carry out a risk assessment on each repair to ensure that we are able to keep both you and your family, and our contractors, safe.
- Social distancing and hygiene measures will be in place to keep you safe. All our contractors will wear appropriate PPE. For details about how we are working with our contractors to keep you safe if a repair or an inspection is required in your property, have a look here.
- To report a repair please ring 03333 21 30 30 or email talktous@cds.coop
Letting Properties
- The majority of local authorities we work with have resumed their lettings and so we are now once again able to offer our lettings service.
- With a view to safety, viewings will be done virtually, using video, and any sign ups will be done over phone.
- We are not currently offering mutual exchanges.
Health and Wellbeing
Mental Health
We are all facing new and challenging situations at the moment. It is important to be aware of your mental health and reach out to others to check in on them. We have put together some resources to help you reach out for help and to reach out to others who may need extra support at this time.
Helping Your Neighbours
Now more than ever, it is important to think about the vulnerable within our communities. We all need to remember to act with a little more kindness and patience whenever possible during this trying time. Please take the time to check in with those around you and ensure that they continue to have access to the necessities (foods, medicines, and, a friendly hello). Remember to do this in a way that keeps both you, and your neighbours, safe. If you are concerned about a neighbour and feel that you are not in a position to assist, or are in need of some support yourself, then please get in touch with a member of our team. We will be able to provide support or connect you with a local organisation who can help. Alternatively, have a look at the guidance and resources below.
To get in touch with a member of our team, please have a look here.
Domestic Abuse
If domestic abuse makes your home unsafe to stay in, then the guidance about staying at home may differ. The government has produced comprehensive guidance about this which you can access here. Women’s Aid has are also able to help. If you feel unsafe, you can call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline for free and confidential advice, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247. Alternatively please feel free to contact our team who will be able to ensure that you can access the support you need.
Other Queries
For further information about our current services, or for more guidance to access support, please see the resources below.
If you are worried about your home, your rent, or your service during this outbreak, please do call us and speak with one of our team.
Information for Residents
If you have questions or queries about accessing benefits or welfare guidance then please have a look here to see how you can access our support service. We also have put together a range of resources below that will help you find networks and support in your area. Have a look below for further details.
Corona Virus Update for Residents
Coronavirus – Info for Residents
Information for Clients
Please see here for guidance on what is expected of registered co-ops with regards to moves at this time.
