Marie Curie responds to updated government shielding advice
Comment published
Across England and Wales, the government directive has now changed for those who have been advised to shield during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Under the new guidelines, effective from Monday 1 June 2020, people shielding in England are now allowed to venture outdoors once per day, either with members of their household or, if they live alone, with one person from another household – as long as social distancing and strict hygiene is maintained.
Similarly in Wales, those who have been shielding can now enjoy unlimited exercise outside with people from their household. They can also meet outside with people from one other household if social distancing guidelines are adhered to.
Dr. Adrian Tookman, Medical Director at Marie Curie said:
“Many people who have been shielding over the last few weeks will be terminally ill and will have been fearful of not seeing the people they love one last time. These people will be delighted at the prospect of reuniting with loved ones and making the most of the time they have left but, at the same time, unsure of whether it is safe to do so.
“Shielding was in place to protect the most vulnerable from Coronavirus and while the virus is still in the UK those risks still remain. Knowing whether it is right for these people to go outside and right to visit their loved one is hard. There is no simple answer. In practice, it will be a personal and individual decision for each person to make.
“For those that do it is essential to continue to observe social distancing and comply with all the advice on handwashing - not just for the safety of patients but to prevent the virus from being spread to carers and staff who may themselves be elderly or have pre-existing conditions.
“If people living with a terminal illness, who have been shielding, are unsure about whether they should be going outside again then their GP, district nurse or wider care team can support them to make that decision and will be able to advise on how to minimise the risk.
“Our national support line is available for anyone to call for help, practical information and emotional support on the issue of shielding or any other aspect of living with a terminal illness.”