Marie Curie comment on Welsh Government pausing shielding

 Commenting on the Welsh Government announcement that shielding will be paused in Wales from August 16 

Simon Jones, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at Marie Curie, said: “There is no doubt that the new guidance from the Government on pausing shielding in Wales will be welcomed by many people. For those shielding who are terminally ill, and their families, this has been a very difficult and emotionally charged time, which may have had an impact on their mental health through stress and loneliness or halted any plans they had to ensure the best possible experience at the end of their lives.

“People living with terminal illness are among the most vulnerable to infection and while the virus remains in the UK we would advise people to think carefully about changing their circumstances and to seek advice from the doctors and nurses looking after them.

“It is also vital that people who decide it is important to keep shielding are able to continue to get the support they need, and urge anyone including the Welsh Government providing such support not to forget that many people will still be extremely vulnerable and worried about how they can get their essentials. 

“Our free national support line is available for anyone to call on 0800 090 2309.”