Shielding anxiety.

[EvieJo]

Just wondering if anyone has received any personal update letters advising them further? I personally do not know anyone else who is shielding so I can’t actually talk to anyone, I find it helpful to check on here as I know there are lots of others in the same boat.

I have heard nothing from anyone - extending or downgrading. I am feeling rather worried (I have posted about anxiety previously). From today masks are mandatory where I work so if I am to be back at work in the next couple of weeks, I will be expected to adhere to this and I really cannot tolerate them! My asthma is not great at the moment and I am waking throughout the night feeling extremely tight chested and breathless. I am using my reliever more. Unfortunately my gp is not great, Ive rung to say I am struggling and they keep saying someone will ring me back but they never do. I honestly don’t know anymore if the worry is making my symptoms worse or not. Sometimes it feels as though someone is sat on my chest.

I hate this no-man’s land, not having any idea what’s coming.

Anyway sorry to moan, hope everyone is doing ok (or as good as you can!). I feel as though no one understands, although I know many of you will,

Take care x

[twinkly29]

It's supposed to be under review this week (in England), presumably with changes to come into effect after the end of June when shielding here currently runs to. But until they announce changes, it's just that - til the end of June.

[Babbela]

Sorry to hear you are struggling the humidity is high and that makes my chest feel heavy and unable to breathe efficiently could it be that you are experiencing the same thing .As for shielding its the end of the month up to now .I also when returning to work have to wear a mask which I'm dreading don't know if I will deal with it on for a number of hours can only try .

[EvieJo in reply to Babbela]

Hi, yes maybe, I’m also wondering if inactivity is contributing as well. I mean I’m trying to stay as active as possible, even while shielding I’ve been taking quiet walks on my own. I suppose occupational health will have to come in when it comes to mask wearing and hopefully some risk assessment will be involved. It’s ironic really that being vulnerable we should benefit from wearing them but if you can’t breathe....... Makes me feel panicky just thinking about it 🥵

[twinkly29 in reply to EvieJo]

The anxiety will definitely be making you feel worse. Does anything particular help with anxiety for you? Some people find things like the Calm or Headspace apps helpful, others find breathing exercises help. But it's a personal. Anxiety is awful though and you definitely won't be alone in how you feel.

Masks are not expected for those with respiratory issues who can't tolerate them. I don't know what your job entails but is there any way you could be moved to a less front line role? If not, depending what happens with shielding it might be worth talking to your GP. All asthmatics are classed as vulnerable so workplaces should be mindful of that - but if not, or they can't be (depending what you do), your GP might be able to help/advise on the risk to you and if you should be at work/wearing a mask.

[flossiew]

I haven't heard anything yet either. I thought shielding was up for discussion today, but perhaps I got my dates muddled! Like you, and others, my asthma isn't great at the minute - for some reason I have been wheezing and coughing more than usual. I'll just be grateful to know what the next step from here will be so I can start making plans with my manager about my return to work... Anyway, take care ❤️ xx

[Larrythelathe]

I thought it was today as well. I am not sure if I trust the advice anyway

[Js706]

It started out with them saying they would update today but more recently they’ve been saying they would be reviewing starting today - so the update will come sometime this week but we don’t know exactly when

[Biggie_McDick]

I’m in Scotland so different again.

I have had a grand total of four letter re shielding.

The initial one gave a date of 8th June.

The second one was posted 24th April and said 12 weeks which took me to mid July

Te third one apologised for the first one giving the wrong date

The fourth one says at least 31st July.

My asthma isn’t the concern for me. I have a list of other health issues plus I’m on a continuous high dose of steroids.

I hope that you get some clarification soon. Receiving the fourth letter was something of a relief for me as I wasn’t need to go back to work this early.

[Poobah]

Hi EvieJo. In Wales shielding has been extended to 16th August. I suspect that England will follow suit and Public Health England will be sending letters to all shielders any day now to advise on extending shielding and maybe what their plans are beyond that.

In respect of returning to work, once you know when shielding is being relaxed have a chat with your employer about an occupational health review (don't leave it to the last minute). Large employers will provide a qualified occupational health practitioner to risk assess the workplace and how it affects you specifically, taking into account your asthma and the risk posed by Covid-19, masks etc. The practioner will recommend reasonable adjustments in the workplace to protect your health. The employer makes the adjustments. These can be a change of duties, working in a different place, working from home or even paid leave, if necessary.

If your employer can't provide occupational health services then you can access them via Access to Work, a government scheme. gov.uk/access-to-work

These services are non negotiable for anyone covered by the Equality Act 2010 and only qualified practitioners should be used. The fact that you were selected for shielding indicates that your asthma is sufficiently severe to be considered a disability by virtue of the Act.

Workplace risk assessments are different and are suitable for general risks and the entire workforce. Don't accept this as they are not carried out by occupational health experts.

If you're in a union then your rep can offer support through the process.

All the best.