Shielders 'anxious' about returning to normality as quarantine ends
Almost 80 thousand vulnerable people in Northern Ireland will be able to pause shielding from Friday.
People considered to be at the highest clinical risk from coronavirus (COVID-19) received letters from their GP or hospital care team to inform them to stay indoors when the outbreak began.
However, a shielder has told us she feels anxious about returning to 'normal'.
Sam is from Belfast and has been shielding since March.
She said "I had to get my sister to look after me, she's been doing my shopping and also looking after my grandparents. Obviously not being able to work or go to the supermarket or a simple shop was really tough.
"I did go out more when relaxations were announced at the start of July. Just being able to go to the park was great, it was nice to be out and about and still distance myself from people and just be somewhere different than my house."
However, in the past week Sam lost her job and fears her situation will make it harder to get work.
"That has been really tough and I'm trying to deal with this. I am worried now in case no-one will employ me as I am on the shielding list, and if there is a second wave I'll have to go back in to isolation."
Sam also told Downtown/Cool FM news shielders should have been given a guide to help them go outside again.
"I find it all a bit confusing, at the start they said we want to protect you, and now they say it's ok, you can take a pause. I think we should have been given step by step guide for the vulnerable. Also it's how you trust other people, I know people that have been going against the Government guidelines.
"But I have to go back I don't have a choice, I need to find a new job and pay my bills, I guess that's the way it is. I just try and avoid people as much as I can and only go out when I need to."
Health officials are asking people to show shielders consideration, stay apart, and wear a mask.
Health Minister Robin Swann said: “It has been a long road for those who have been shielding at home because their medical condition placed them at particular risk from Covid-19.
“While shielding comes to a halt this Friday, we all have a duty to support our fellow citizens and help them resume everyday activities.
“That certainly includes wearing face coverings in shops and other indoor settings. Consider it an act of solidarity with your friends and neighbours.
“Many of those who have been shielding will understandably be nervous about their leaving their homes.
“We can all play our part in assuring them, by showing kindness and consideration. That means keeping our distance and giving them space and time.
“A good rule of thumb is to assume everyone we encounter may have been shielding. Strict social distancing remains absolutely vital.”