Further Info for Shielders

[IncognitoIsMyFavouriteWord]

Has anyone else not had an update about shielding?

An official end date perhaps or if we need to shield for longer because of the shit show that is the latest update?

I haven't received an update since my initial letter.

Oh, and the supermarkets now telling me they have me registered as a priority. (Not that it made a difference).

The original end date of 30th June is still 6 weeks away. I guess we'll get advised nearer the time but I guess it will depend a lot on what happens over the next few weeks with the relaxing of some measures. If infection rates shoot up I guess we'll be told to shield for longer.

How are you doing with it all? I hope you're fine and not struggling. x

How many times can I say "I guess" in one post??!?!

I had a letter (for my DD) on circa 18th March which said to shield for at least 12 weeks, nothing since I don’t think . So for us we’ve not had the update on shielding till end of June yet, we will anyway and for however long but have only been able to do it fully while both workplaces are understanding .

The extending of the furlough scheme is making me think that we will be shielded until October too.

In short, no more info. I've written to both my MSP and MP and the response is basically dunno.

Honestly, I've really had enough. I want my freedom.

I missed the end of June end date, was that on the letter? I must have skipped over it and have since shredded the letter.

I live alone but I miss my family and friends. I've been in this house since 17th March. I know it's the same for everyone but it is getting to me.

OP, you know that you can go out if you want to? I'm only asking because someone I know thought it was illegal to leave the house because of the tone of the letter. Obviously you have to risk assess and do things safely. My sister who is shielding has decided to drive to an open space and meet her friend for a walk. She will make sure she doesn't touch anything and stay over two metres apart.

End of June is on the gov website and some seem to be receiving texts or letters to advise. I’ve had absolutely nothing other than my first letter.

Come and join us on the shielded thread in chat, I’m sure someone more clever could link it.

If you got the letter in the first week of issue, it said 'at least 12 weeks' which puts renewal point mid June. Later letters and the website say end June (but they never sent further info to first group)

I've seen talk of some people already receiving notifications about length of next extension, but no verified version (IYSWIM)

People received second letters appearing to add 12 weeks but the theory is that they are duplicates. Hopefully we’ll know more (actually be given some updates and maybe even a suggested phased plan like the general population has to keep them sane) soon.

What a shambles 😢

I go out really early in the morning to walk the dogs.

Other people are dicks so I don't want to risk myself by going out when the general population do.

I miss hugging my son who no longer lives at home.

@nether that makes perfect sense because I worked it out to mid June. I think I was one of the early ones to receive a letter.

I still have the original text I received and I searched the links but there is nothing there that says 30th June. Unless I'm missing it.

@Redcherries is there a link to the shielding chat thread?

The government website says this:

"Those in the clinically extremely vulnerable cohort will continue to be advised to shield themselves for some time yet, and the Government recognises the difficulties this brings for those affected. Over the coming weeks, the Government will continue to introduce more support and assistance for these individuals so that they have the help they need as they stay shielded. "
And

"It is likely that the Government will continue to advise people who are clinically extremely vulnerable to shield beyond June."

I’m useless on my phone but if you search ‘chat for shielded people’ you’ll find us. It’s a very caring, supportive thread, some lovely posters helping each other through each day and each frustration. Like when we finally get mentioned in the press conference and get given more wishy washy bullshit with no indication there’s a plan for us beyond it’s still dangerous whilst the virus is in the community and more mouth time spent talking about nurses within that reply (I have the utmost respect for nurses, but it was naff all to do with giving the shielded information)

@ofwarren I truly think I'm going to weigh up the risks to me and take it each step. I am accepting of up until Mid June but I don't think I will cope with anything further than that.

I know I won't be able to go to the pub or a restaurant with friends but not seeing anyone is a struggle.

I want to do my own shopping.

I miss food shopping. Actually having a good look and seeing what looks nice. Online just isn't the same although I'm glad it exists. My mum and I shop together and it's our weekly trip out that often involves tea and cake and a catch up in the cafe too. I miss our weekly ritual.

Surely it also depends on why you are shielding. There can’t be a hard and fast rule for 2.5 million people or whatever it was?

I’m on the list as I’m on oral chemo, but I’m asking my oncologist at my next apt in a weeks time what she thinks I should do. I trust her opinion rather than the mass blanket one.

@Rodent01 I had my quarterly appointment a week last Friday and never thought to ask her, though I suppose I could email her.

I have inflammation of the lungs. Out of breath easily and cannot take a deep breath. A virus that attacks the lungs can't be good for me.

@Redcherries I'll search for it.

@Bercows It's the simple things that can so easily be missed.

I can't wait until I'm allowed back to work in the office. I hammer the Skype chat at work.

I live alone and I'm shielded too. My letter said 12 weeks from date of letter, which officially makes it 26th June, but as I work in a school, they are unlikely to expect me until September.

It's tough thinking I won't be at work until the new school year, but that's the way it is.

I have weighed up the risks and I have had my dd sitting in my garden at a sensible distance. She brings her own drink and as she only lives 5 minutes away by car, she goes home as soon as she needs the loo!

Another couple of friends (married couple) popped round for a while last week too. Came in via the trades mans entrance to the garden and didn't get near the house.

I really think that you need to consider your own mental health as well and if you can confidently and safely distance within your garden, it's no different from having to walk at distance from someone on you early morning walk.

I received this text last Thursday which says 30th June

NHS Coronavirus Service: You have been identified as someone who may be at high risk of severe illness if you catch Coronavirus. You should get a letter from the NHS to confirm this. The government are advising you shield at home until 30 June unless told otherwise by a healthcare professional.

Support is available if you need help getting food and basic care. Please complete this short form to tell us whether you need it: www.gov.uk/coronavirus-extremely-vulnerable. You'll be asked for your NHS number which you can find on any letter the NHS has sent you or on a prescription.

If you cannot sign up on the website, call us on 0800 028 8327.

The NHS is still here for you. You will get the care you need, but it is more likely to be via phone or online.

We will send you more messages with information.

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Shielding chat