The health and safety of our staff, hosts and students is our top priority, and we have been closely following the official advice from the UK Government and the World Health Organisation. To help stop the spread of Coronavirus and safeguard the health of those at greatest risk, the Government has said we all need to stay at home, only leaving for limited reasons and not at all if we are in a high risk group. This is to reduce close contact with other people and help slow the spread of COVID19.

Being asked to stay at home and stop having close contact with family and friends probably sounds difficult. You might be feeling worried, scared, sad or even a bit angry. That’s normal, but it’s important to know you’re not alone. We are all in this together to fight this difficult time!

Top tips for getting through the spread of Coronavirus and staying happy & healthy. Here is a list of things you can do to keep you safe and occupied while being at home:

• Social distancing and self-isolation are aimed at reducing close contact with others, you should only be leaving your home if you are shopping for basic necessities, one form of exercise a day and travelling to and from work, but only where this absolutely cannot be done from home. If you are to leave your home for those above reasons the advice to remain at least 2 metres apart from others (excluding members of your own household) and minimise time outside.
• While we all have lots of time on our hands, why not read a book or learn a new recipe to try!
• Practice a new language, download Duolingo or Babbel and dedicate some time each day to practice your vocabulary or grammar.
• Reach out to your friends and family through Skype, social media and Facetime/Whatsapp video call! I’m positive a long chat can resolve any worries you may be feeling.
• Do some exercise, there are so many videos out there on YouTube and other social platforms of people coming together to exercise at home safely.
• Make your own hand sanitiser with these 3 simple ingredients, 3/4 cup of isopropyl or rubbing alcohol (99 percent), 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel (to help keep your hands smooth and to counteract the harshness of alcohol), 10 drops of essential oil, such as lavender oil, or you can use lemon juice instead.
• Why not get stuck into a new series to watch on Netflix or Amazon Prime? This is great way to pass the time.
• Get out in the garden, even if it is sitting in the sun and soaking up some Vitamin D or getting your hands dirty tidying and maintaining any plants that are there.
• Do some cooking, maybe make some bread from scratch or bake some muffins!

We hope you are all staying safe in London!