Helping children understand coronavirus 
Those of you who count younger children amongst your loved ones may be interested in the latest digital book by Axel Scheffler. Axel is a well-known illustrator, and has created a free book about the coronavirus and the measures taken to control it. He has worked with experts to answer key questions to help children understand the changing world around them in simple and age-appropriate language for primary school age children. 

Tell the NHS about your experience of coronavirus 
Do you think you have had coronavirus symptoms? If yes, then please help the NHS collect data on the outbreak by visiting their Coronavirus Status Checker and telling them about your experience. www.nhs.uk/coronavirus-status-checker 

Job searching during the crisis  
Many people’s jobs have changed as a result of the crisis. If you are looking for work, there are roles that urgently need filling. The following websites and services can help:  

• Get Oldham Working have essential job roles available. Contact: [email protected] or call on 07970966527.  

• Employ GM have urgent temporary vacancies for those able to start work straight away.  

• Greater.jobs have all jobs in the 12 GM local authorities, and other local services. New roles related to the crisis are being added.  

• NHS Jobs Crisis roles are highlighted.   

• Find a job A government job search service. There is significant demand for nurses, healthcare assistants, social care workers, delivery drivers, warehouse workers and retail workers.  

Exam information for this year’s students  
Guidance on how GCSE, AS and A levels will be awarded this summer: 

• Guidance for head teachers and teachers 
• Guidance for students, parents and carers and teachers 

This year schools and colleges will provide ‘centre assessment grades’ for their students. Full details are on the government’s website 

Donations of Protective Equipment 
Donations of personal protective equipment (PPE) for use by front-line health and social care staff are welcome at this time. Items such as disposable aprons, nitrile gloves, face masks, hand sanitiser and eye protection would be appreciated. 
If you have anything to donate please email [email protected]  
 
Free school meals and Easter – update 
Schools to continue to provide free schools for those who are eligible. Over Easter weeks our catering service will be on site to provide packed lunches. The Government has now announced funding for a voucher scheme – please contact your school for more details. 
After the holidays the system will go back to catering staff providing packed lunches on site and the voucher scheme will continue (with a total of £15 per week now available). 
Oldham foodbanks also are available for those in critical need. 
 
Schools and Easter  
Schools continue to be open over the Easter Holiday period and on Good Friday and Easter Monday for children of key workers and those with Education Health Care plans.  

More info and advice  
Go to www.oldham.gov.uk/coronavirus for a wide range of information, advice and support. For ideas on how to keep you and your family occupied during the crisis sign up to our Love Libraries email here