Shielding Advice from the Government
When we sent our blog out on Friday last week, we spoke about the new Government Guidelines and how for people shielding the guidelines had not changed. This was out of date in a matter of hours.
Last weekend the Government suddenly announced changes to the advice for people who are ‘shielding’ in England. From today people who are shielding will be able to go outside with members of their household while following social distancing guidelines. Alternatively, people living alone can meet outside with one other person from another household.
The MS Society commented:
“Over 130,000 people live with MS in the UK and thousands of them have been left feeling forgotten after months of shielding. While for some it may be a relief that this relaxation is happening in England others have been left feeling confused. We’re extremely concerned this news has come out of the blue – people who are extremely vulnerable will rightly want to hear a lot more about the scientific evidence showing this will be safe for them. If the government is serious about supporting vulnerable people who are shielding they need more than just the ability to go outside. Crucially, we want to see better mental health support for everyone who needs it.”
Whether you are ‘Shielding’ or not, if you choose to go out please be careful. If you prefer not to, that is OK too. Don’t forget the BMSTC Counselling service is always on hand to support you if you need it. Call 0118 901 6000 or email ms@bmstc.org.
