The Prime Minister’s announcement on Monday was unprecedented and has resulted in substantial changes for us all. I know it is an unnerving time.
Combating coronavirus now requires significant changes to the way we all live our lives. It is important we follow the rules in order to overcome the challenge in front of us and in doing so, we will all play our part in saving lives and protecting the NHS – allowing it to focus on those most in need.
To reiterate, people should now only leave their homes for the following, very limited, purposes.
- To go to work (but only if you cannot work from home)
- To shop for groceries, medicine, and other essentials (infrequently)
- To exercise outside (once daily, alone or only with other members of your household)
- For any medical need, or to provide care or help to a vulnerable person
Other than for these very limited reasons, for your own safety, you should not have contact with people outside of your household whilst these restrictions are in place. I know they are tough. I know people want to continue to see friends and family, which is important, but now is the time to embrace new ways of doing that by using technology like video calls.
One area of the new rules which I have received many messages about, is the advice for those who are still attending work. Whilst these new rules require you to work from home where you can, and employers should make every effort to get people working from home, some roles cannot be done from home. That includes many we have here in Burnley. In these instances, you can, and should, continue to go to work. It is vital that when we get through this period, we have a thriving Burnley and we can only do that if businesses continue to operate.
Employers need to do their bit too though, by taking every precaution they can. That includes changing processes to limit people being in close proximity to one another, providing regular hand-washing facilities and having robust cleaning routines. They should be following the Public Health England advice just as individuals should.
And finally, a note about our fantastic NHS. At this critical time in our country’s history they have shown themselves to be what we always knew they were – world class, selfless and committed to protecting all of us. We can all do our bit to help the NHS not just by staying at home, which we must do, but also by volunteering with them. I’ve already done this, and you can by going to https://www.goodsamapp.org/nhs. This scheme will help protect the 1.4 million people who need our help the most as they are shielded from the worst effects of this virus.
In times of crisis our country has a phenomenal ability to come together, to look after each other, and do whatever it takes. This crisis requires that same spirit. It requires an effort not seen outside of war time. And so I would urge you – follow the Government advice, protect yourself and your livelihood, and we will come out of this together.
