Coronavirus - Changes to shielding
People who are identified as clinically extremely vulnerable were advised to take additional action to prevent themselves from coming into contact with COVID-19 when transmission of coronavirus in the community is high.
However, this week the government has announced some changes to shielding. This means:
• The government will no longer be advising you to shield
• The support from the National Shielding Service of free food parcels, medicine deliveries and care will stop
• NHS Volunteer Responders will carry on delivering the food you buy, prescriptions and essential items to you if you need it. Contact them on 0808 196 3646 (8am to 8pm)
• You will still be eligible for priority supermarket slots (if you have registered by 17 July)
You may still be at risk of severe illness if you catch coronavirus, so stay at home as much as you can and continue to take precautions when you do go out. You can do this by washing your hands regularly, avoiding touching your face and keeping 2 metres away from people outside of your household or bubble wherever possible.
Additionally, you’ll be advised you can go out to more places and see more people:
• You can go to work, as long as the workplace is COVID-secure – but carry on working from home if you can
• Children who are clinically extremely vulnerable can go back to school (when the rest of their class goes back)
• You can go outside to buy food, to places of worship and for exercise – keeping 2 metres away wherever possible
NHS Volunteer Responders can support you with:
• Collecting shopping, medication (if your friends and family cannot collect them for you) or other essential supplies;
• A regular, friendly phone call which can be provided by different volunteers each time or by someone who is also shielding and will stay in contact for several weeks; and
• Transport to medical appointment.
Please call 0808 196 3646 between 8am and 8pm to arrange support or speak to your health case professional for transport support. A carer or family member can also do this on their behalf. More information is available at www.nhsvolunteerresponders.org.uk
