COVID - how to protect yourself, and how to get support
Taken overall, Ryedale has had a relatively low number of COVID-19 cases, and its rate of infection has consistently been below the average for North Yorkshire and England as a whole. We'd like to say "thank you" to people in Ryedale for following public health advice and helping to keep our district safe for everyone.
However, we can't be complacent about COVID. Even in Ryedale the rate of infection could escalate rapidly if care isn't taken, so we need to keep doing everything we can to protect each other so that COVID does not rise in Ryedale.
Here's what you can do:
- Follow the national guidance and restrictions
- Remember HANDS, FACE and SPACE. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use a hand sanitizer. Wear a face mask in public indoor settings, and make space by respecting social distancing and staying 2m apart.
- If you have symptoms of COVID-19 (new continuous cough, high temperature and a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste) self-isolate and don’t leave home except to get a test. Tests can be booked at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119. There are mobile testing facilities at Thornton le Dale and Malton. The testing sites nearest to you will come up when you book your test.
Remember, if you are struggling to cope due to COVID, there is help available.
- People who are self-isolating, and do not have family, friends or neighbours to help, can get support with shopping for food and other essentials, collecting prescriptions, caring for pets, getting online and using technology to talk to friends and family or delivering books, magazines and hobby materials. The helpline number for the Ryedale Community Support Organisation is: 07922 421326. Find out more about the RCSO and other community support here.
- Workers who can’t work and have lost their income because they are self-isolating, can apply for financial help through the Test and Trace Support Grant. Information and applications for the Test and Trace Support Grant can be found here.
- Certain businesses that have been forced to close due to lockdown may be eligible for the government’s Local Restrictions Support Grant scheme. Information and applications about all of our business grants and business support can be found here.
- Businesses can also use this Government support tool to see what help is available.
- If you think you will face difficultiies paying your mortage or rent, our Housing Team may be able to help. They can negotiate with landlords, refer you for debt advice, look for charity payments and advise about benefit entitlements. They can also refer you to a range of specialist support agencies if appropriate. Contact the Housing Team through our switchboard on 01653 600 666 or send an email to
- If you're suffering from domestic abuse, or you're worried about bogus callers you can get help and advice here.
- Use this Government support checker to see what help and advice you can get.
For additional information on services and support around COVID-19, go to the COVID-19 section of this website.
