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A mental health charity in Hull will continue to operate its 24-hour hotline during the holiday season to help people through the Covid-19 crisis.
The bosses of Hull and East Yorkshire Mind say late government changes to the Christmas bubble rules could make even more people feel lonely and get over the holidays.
Among the changes, the original idea of allowing up to three households to mix over a five-day period has been postponed due to the risks associated with a new variant of the virus.
Instead, the easing of the rules for torso and east riding in Tier 3 only applies on Christmas Day, with travel restrictions for people living in Tier 4 areas in London and the South East.
During the first national lockdown, the Beverley Road-based mental health charity, in partnership with the Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, extended its information and counseling helpline to 24 hours a day.
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General Manager Emma Dallimore said while the tighter restrictions are needed to control the spread of the virus, they could put many people in a vulnerable position.
She said the new rules meant many may now have to spend Christmas Day alone or have their traditional plans for the festive season changed at the last minute.
« Whether or not Christmas is part of your life, your sanity can be affected by it happening around you, » she said.
« It is a time of year that often puts us under extra pressure and can affect our mental health in many different ways. If Christmas is a tough time for you, it is important to remember that you are not alone.
« Our information and advice line is open around the clock during the festive season if you need information, advice, support, or just want someone to speak to you. «
World Health Organization experts warned this week that they expect more people to struggle with severe mental health problems in the next few months as the winter season worsens the aftermath of the pandemic.
Dr. Hans Kluge, Director of WHO Europe, said: « We expect that more people will face greater mental health problems in the coming months when the reality of this experience becomes reality.
« One of the best gifts in this time of giving is to protect our own sanity and wellbeing, and to promote that of others. «
If you are struggling with your mental health and want information or advice, you can call 01482 240133 24 hours a day or send an email to info @ heymind. org. United Kingdom .
The charity’s website also has more information on managing your health during the pandemic, including tips on how to navigate the holiday season. Visit www. heymind. org. uk / coronavirus
Mental health, Christmas day, coronavirus, ghost
World news – AU – Hull Charity works around the clock after Christmas changes
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