Disability Sheffield
Zoom: A A A A Current Page  »  About  /  Blog  /  Blog Article

Mixed and Confusing Messages for 'Vulnerable'

Mixed and Confusing Messages for 'Vulnerable'

Charities have called for clarity over shielding plans for ‘vulnerable’ and ‘extremely vulnerable’ people during the current pandemic – with news of some people being told by text message that they no longer qualify for government food parcels.

Representatives of almost 50 healthcare organisations have signed an open letter to the Government warning that millions of people are getting mixed and confused messages about the easing of shielding measures potentially putting their health and safety at serious risk.

These groups – including Macmillan Cancer Support, British Lung Foundation, Asthma UK, MS Society, National Voices, Versus Arthritis; Kidney Care UK and Cystic Fibrosis Trust – are calling for clear, consistent advice on ‘shielding’ measures for ‘extremely vulnerable’ people to ensure they protect themselves and can access support as lockdown eases.

You can see the letter to Michael Gove, Chancellor Of The Duchy Of Lancaster here.

The letter calls for ongoing support that must be co-produced with people directly affected and with the involvement of voluntary sector charities and makes a number of recommendations including clear communication and leadership, priority support for health and wellbeing, support for carers, protection at work and financial support.

Meanwhile The Guardian newspaper reported that some people shielding in England received text messages saying that they were no longer on the medically vulnerable list and no longer eligible for food parcels. The report said that people with cancer, liver disease or severe asthma have been dropped from the government’s coronavirus shielding list by text message before they had the chance to speak to their own doctors.

People have since been advised to contact their GP or specialist before acting on the text.

The Prime Minister spoke at the end of last month of the need for people to continue shielding and promised more information soon.

Share

Categories

Leave a comment

Blog Archive

Articles by Category

Articles by Tag

Articles by Date

* indicates required

Sign up to our latest news on local and national disability related issues and events

Recent Feedback    (We'd love to receive your feedback, please click here to add some)

Disability Sheffield is a forward-thinking, energetic organisation doing a lot of positive work in Sheffield. I have no doubt they will continue to do so for a long time to come.
The service received was rated as:  

Ruth

A fantastic presentation thought provoking and good questions from the floor around promoting this film/message to the general public not just professionals.
The service received was rated as:  

training feedback

When I moved to Sheffield nearly five years ago it was my "go to" organisation. I expect it to stay that way. All the staff and volunteers seem to pull out little gems of effort that disabled people like me couldn't do without. Professionally and personally - I love em :)
The service received was rated as:  

Andrew Crooks

Very good presentation, brave of the speakers to tell their stories and had a very high impact - feedback from Mate/Hate Crime presentation and video session at Safeguarding Working Together Conference
The service received was rated as:  

feedback training