More freedom for people shielding in Cornwall as government guidance ends
People can now take fewer precautions as case numbers drop
Clinically extremely vulnerable residents in Cornwall are being reminded that support is available to help them get back out into the community as the government advises that they can stop shielding from today (Thursday April 1).
Cornwall Council has said those coming out of shielding should follow the current rules under the government’s roadmap for lifting lockdown restrictions, but they should take extra precautions to protect themselves from Covid-19.
Here are some key points for people who are no longer shielding:
- Minimise social interactions and try to reduce the amount of time spent in settings where social distancing is not possible.
- Work from home if possible but those who cannot work from home should attend their workplace
Employers are required to take steps to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus in the workplace and should explain measures they have put in place to keep employees safe at work.
From today (April 1) those previously shielding will no longer be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) on the basis of being advised to shield.
They may be eligible for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (furlough) or Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), both of which have been extended until September 30.
- Clinically extremely vulnerable pupils and students should return to their school or other educational settings.
- All clinically extremely vulnerable adults should have had their first dose of the vaccine and are advised to take up the second dose when offered. If they have not had their first dose, they should contact their GP.
Age UK Cornwall and Volunteer Cornwall can help transport vulnerable residents who do not have their own transportation to their vaccination appointment.
- Supermarkets will continue to provide priority delivery slots to vulnerable individuals until June 21.
- Health services remain available and residents with a medical need or question should contact their GP or health consultant.
Cornwall Council is working with partners in the health and voluntary sector to continue to support vulnerable residents in accessing priority supermarket deliveries and signposting to wellbeing advice.
Emergency food support is available at foodbanks throughout Cornwall. An interactive Help with Food map has been created in partnership with community organisations and is online at Let’s Talk Cornwall which can be accessed here.
Cornwall Council is supporting Age UK Cornwall on a free, Step into Wellness coaching programme designed to provide lifestyle and mental health advice and to support people in getting back into the community.
Further information can be found at Cornwall Link: Step into Wellness. To register your interest email stepintowellness@ageukcornwall.org.uk or telephone 01872 266383.
There is general advice and guidance on improving mental wellbeing on the Council’s website here.
Anyone who may be worried about their own or someone else's mental health can contact 0800 038 5300 for help and support.
“We know that shielding has not been easy and we would like to thank everyone who has been shielding and their families, friends and other support networks for their efforts during this challenging time.
“Although clinically extremely vulnerable people will no longer be advised to shield from this Thursday, we still recommend that you take extra precautions to protect yourself while the virus is still circulating in our communities.
“These uncertain times mean we are all living and working in unusual ways and this can create feelings of stress and anxiety. If you’ve been shielding from others these feelings can be all the more heightened. But together with our health and voluntary partners, there are things we can support you with to help maintain and protect your mental wellbeing.”
Rachel Wigglesworth, Cornwall Council’s director of public health
“It has been a very difficult and worrying twelve months particularly for those who have been shielding. However, Cornwall’s communities and volunteers have been there to help to ensure people receive the support they need.
"Now with the backing from Cornwall Council, we will continue our assistance to ensure any worries or concerns are addressed to enable people to have the confidence to reconnect with their community.”
Ian Jones, Chief Executive of Volunteer Cornwall
Here is the updated guidance for those who are clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID-19.