By Lucinda Parfett
Credit: Unsplash/Trent Szmolnik Credit: Unsplash/Sharon McCutcheon
Social distancing and self isolation are things that we have all become very familiar with over the past two months. In this time, our attitudes and support systems towards self-isolation have drastically changed in comparison to this time last year.
People who were already in Isolation for extended periods because of disability, age or illness didn't have access to the level of support that exists within society today. Whether it is the sense of belonging, knowing you're apart of a community isolating together. Or the support from those around us.
As a result of the COVID-19 act 2020, people who need to self isolate at home which means they are unable to work can gain better access to financial support from the government. With systems in place to support those who are self-employed as well as other types of employees - Although this doesn't extend to all types of employment unfortunately. However, for those self isolating already their are limited means to gain access to financial support.It is also notoriously difficult to obtain benefits/financial aid to support those in self isolation prior to the lock down.
It is increasingly difficult to get food delivery slots. For those who were already in self-isolation, and don't have family or friends to help them by picking up groceries, what are they to do? The government has introduced a priority sign up list for those who are at an extremely high risk from coronavirus. However, this does not help the majority of disabled or chronically ill people who don't fit the criteria but still desperately need help.
We have seen a drastic increase in the amount of campaigns supporting peoples mental health while in self isolation. Social media influencers around the world are sharing their tips on how to stay healthy and positive while in lock down. While it is incredible to see so many people coming together, wanting to support one another...it is my hope that this is something that extends beyond the lock down.
Will these campaigns to support on another in self-isolation still exist once the lock down is lifted?
This period of isolation may allow us to reflect on the reality of the self-isolation the people have already experienced. Proving the importance of reaching out to friends and family and helping one another. For the majority, lock down will end. For some, it will be ongoing. We all now know what it feels like to experience isolation. We can use this knowledge to keep the campaigns running and to facilitate support for those still in self-isolation.
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