Many people with learning disability and /or autism will become increasingly vulnerable during the current Covid-19 crisis.

If you come across vulnerable people, then please refer them to the new telephone support service:

Keeping People Connected : 0191 281 8737

The service is funded by the North Tyneside CCG and aims to help people by keeping connected with them.

They will receive regular calls from specialist staff to access and support them with understanding, practical issues, and signposting where additional help is needed.

Simply ask the person to call, or if it is easier for them give them the email connected@skillsforpeople.org.uk, or it may be easier if you ask for permission to email them their details and Skills for People will then call/email/text, confirm consent and provide ongoing support.

Even if you are not sure if a person has a learning disability and/or autism but it’s clear they are feeling isolated and in need, you can refer them to this service.

The service has a well-developed assessment process which will enable them to evaluate how safe a person is, what additional help they may need, and then to support them to access that help from existing community services and the voluntary sector.