Your role in delivering COVID success

Children, young people, the working-age population and those in later life can all take ownership of the “COVID basics” and build them into their daily routine. For me, this helps me feel that I have some control over events as opposed to being carried along in a tsunami of fear.

Whatever the next stage of the Covid-19 pandemic looks like, be it a second spike, vaccine or a long-tailed recovery – each of us has a role to play.

Interestingly, the messages and actions for students and children are as relevant as for those in later life:
It is normal to feel sad, worried, scared or angry, but remember you are not alone. Keep talking about your feelings with family and co-workers.

Keep safe by washing your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, try not to touch your face.
Don’t share cups, eating utensils, food or drink with others.

Be a leader – Share what you learn with your network. Ask yourself, do your behaviours model good practice? Remember, when sneezing or coughing, do it into your elbow.

Be kind. Support those around you to sustain their mental health.

COVID doesn’t follow geographical boundaries, ethnicities, age, ability or gender.
If you feel unwell take the necessary precautions.

Thoughts for employers

How would you encourage people to adopt safe behaviours?

RoSPA has followed the facts-minimise-fears lead set by the WHO. We have used this approach in communications to audiences of different ages and stages of life.

As an employer, encourage your employees to discuss the facts and minimise fears with co-workers, and turn them into active citizens!

Take the OUCH out of COVID-19 by establishing:

Ownership

Understanding

Control

And by looking at the challenges of living and working during COVID Holistically

Dr Karen McDonnell

RoSPA's occupational safety and health adviser

Planning to reopen your work place? RoSPA can help with a Covid-19 Back-to-Work Review
 

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