Wondering

[Mostew]

What dangers lurk out in the big wide world today that won’t be there on 6 July !!!

Glad I am judging what’s safe for me not relying on the government . We are individuals .

Sorry feel the government is wanting to control us and need a rant !!

[rebeccaxxx]

Well there is less virus in circulation so they think it is safer. If you want to carry on shielding you can, it will take about 4 weeks to see the consequences of any changes to the stats etc. Remember it’s all advisory.

[Mostew in reply to rebeccaxxx]

I meant why the 6th not today . It won’t change safety by waiting ...

I’m glad they are now making it clear we need to decide ourselves . It sounded more like orders before !!!

[Kari1961]

The government advise - they do not order. We are all responsible for our own health. Just because they are lifting restrictions on a certain date, it doesn't mean you have to go out and partake - I know for one, I won't be visiting a pub or restuarant for a long time after the 'shielding' guidlines are lifted in August.

[Mostew in reply to Kari1961]

It would be to weird in a restaurant. I might try an outdoor pub with large garden !!!

[Paul_1971]

I think its sensible to put a future date on it. It gives businesses sometime to plan, contact employees and so on.

With regards to why is it safe then and not now, it will be based on projections, its nearly 2 weeks away, the virus has reduced in the last 2 weeks in circulation and there will be an expectation it will continue to do so.

I think people might also need to be given time to get their head around things, last time the government gave an immediate date (the you can return to work from tomorrow) message, people seem to lose their heads, totally ignoring the 'from' tomorrow if its safe to do so and seeing it as a 'you must go to work tomorrow' message.

That was probably a mistake and giving people time to digest and understand what they can and can't do is probably a much better idea.

People can make their own decisions, like last time when the rule was relaxed to say people shielding could go for a walk etc, it wasn't an instruction it was guidance.

If those in the vulnerable category don't work they can choose to shield for the next 12 months if they want, of course people who work won't have that luxury after the end of July.

[Mostew in reply to Paul_1971]

You are right . Thanks for your wise words

I guess I’m just fed up with their arrogant approach . I need to respect people to listen .

Always been a bit of a rebel !!!!

[lizzziep]

I shall carry on shielding as much as possible for the foreseeable future. I think there will be a second wave, and no-one is safe until we've all had a vaccination against corona. I shall also carry on ordering groceries etc online as much as possible. I hear it's every man for himself and chaos in most supermarkets.

[rebeccaxxx in reply to lizzziep]

I went to M&S this morning for the first time since lockdown and was surprised by how quiet and easy it all was. I can’t hide away forever, we all have to die of something eventually and I won’t plan my life around one virus. Having said that I have always gotten my food delivered online and I have realised I can do a lot more for myself at home than I thought (I homeschool my two littles) so I will definitely be more considerate about the activities I do choose to engage in, and make sure they are worth it. I certainly haven’t missed catching a new cold or big every month!

[azaelea in reply to lizzziep]

I agree with you totally Lizzie! I'm still shielding as much as possible. Last 2 days been for a walk in very quiet area with husband. Only saw two other couples who stepped away and we kept our distance. Apart from this, I won't be going anywhere else.

[Sksarj]

I'm totally with you on this lizzie 100%. I am retired so it's easier than for those who have to work. I'm staying home as long as I possibly can . This virus is not going away easily and I for one don't want to catch it!!

[Hannah52]

Do not understand how you think the government are trying to control you surely they are doing their job. If you want to stay in stay in for the next year. If you want to go out go out but still follow the rules. I think a lot of people do not like following rules rant over

[Mostew in reply to Hannah52]

There is a reason we are said to be the most fearful nation .

I’m glad they are now making it clear we should decide .

Hope everyone has support and someone to chat to if feeling unsure

[Cja1956]

Here in the US, things seemed to be getting better in May, then we had massive protests and governors started opening up restaurants, stores, parks, and beaches. ( 2 different issues) People were supposed to practice social distancing and wear masks, but now there has been a resurgence of the virus and our ICUs have been filling up again. The average age now is 37 because young people don’t always follow the rules. Our country has over 2,000,000 cases and my state, alone, hit over 100,000 cases this week. It’s a very scary state of affairs.

[Mostew in reply to Cja1956]

Yes . People need to be sensible and considerate .

My daughter is living in USA and said same as you . She has just told me she can’t fly home til next year due to travel restrictions .

Can’t believe I won’t see her . ( I’m in U.K. )

[Cja1956 in reply to Mostew]

I know, that’s the hardest part, not being able to see our children. My son lives in New York City and I live in Florida and I don’t know when I’ll be able to see him again.

[hunter5582]

I totally get where you are coming from. Some political leaders are heavy on control and light on actually caring about citizens. They all have their own agendas, which may or may not include doing what is best for society overall. One of our nations founders famously said "The government that is best is that which governs the least." I wish more leaders would follow that credo.

In truth it is up to each of us to decide for ourselves what we will and will not do regarding shielding. The government advises, we decide. I do think we need to make socially responsible decisions and do what we can to keep ourselves and others safe; however, we cannot stay isolated forever. The economy is eroding and the economic harm could do as much damage in the long run as the virus. Perhaps with a modicum of common sense and personal responsibility we can find a sensible way forward.

[Mostew in reply to hunter5582]

What a beautifully put reply . Thank you . I love the quote ... wise words from you as usual .

We must stay strong and steady and have a light happy heart

[Cja1956 in reply to hunter5582]

I agree with you, Hunter. My partner and I have gone out to eat a couple of times but we call first to see what they’re doing for social distancing. I think the restaurants are being very careful but you still have a lot of young people that are gathering here at the beaches and parks. Luckily, my own grown children are being very careful and responsible. The government can only do so much. People have to take responsibility for their actions.

[hunter5582 in reply to Cja1956]

I have likewise resumed cautious eating out at restaurants that are taking reasonable precautions. I am still avoiding large crowds where folk pay no attention to basic precautions. No reason to tempt fate and roll the dice that way just yet. We will gradually return to normal. All the best to you. Stay well and stay safe.

[Cja1956 in reply to hunter5582]

Thank you, same to you.

[Hidden]

I think people have to make rational judgements for themselves based on the infection rate if you live in an area where the rate is low l would think your safe

Social distancing will not last as it’s too difficult to enforce. Masks,handwashing and apps ( although take up of apps is low) avoiding where you feel uncomfortable. Breakouts will hopefully be managed by targeted lockdowns and tracing. The Vaccine is not a given, it may not work or partially work and many will not take it - in Germany 40% say they will not take a vaccine.