VULNERABLE people in Frodsham will no longer have to shield from coronavirus from April 1.
Updated national guidance has been issued for Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (CEV) people following the announcement of the new roadmap for easing restrictions.
There are an estimated 21,000 in the CEV group across Cheshire.
All Clinically Extremely Vulnerable residents will receive a letter from Government this week advising them of the end of shielding from April 1 and providing new guidance on how to best to protect themselves.
Alongside following the national restrictions, people in the CEV group are still advised to take extra precautions to keep themselves safe from the COVID-19 virus. For example:
•You should still work from home if you can. If that is not possible, you can return to the workplace. However, your employer may still be able to furlough you under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
•You are advised that if you do go out to the shops or pharmacy, you should consider going at quieter times of the day.
•Even if you have had both doses of the vaccine you must continue to take extra precautions to keep yourself safe.
•Children on the shielded patient list may also return to school or college.
The NHS Volunteer Responders Programme will continue providing support with food, prescription and essential items to those who need it and can be contacted on 0808 196 3646 (8am – 8pm 7 days a week) or by registering online at: www.nhsvolunteerresponders.org.uk
Ian Ashworth, Director of Public Health said: “We understand that the end of shielding may cause some worry or anxiety, which is why we are working closely with local businesses, schools and colleges, and our voluntary, community and NHS partners to ensure that the transition is as smooth it can be and our most vulnerable remain protected.
“Whilst we strongly encourage a friends and family first approach, our dedicated helpline and virtual hub will remain open for anyone who has any concerns and we encourage you to make contact with us if you need any assistance.
“We urge you to remain vigilant and continue to follow the guidance that remains in place to protect yourself – respect social distancing, wear face coverings where you can, continue to wash hands regularly and minimise contact where possible”
In future formal shielding will only be reintroduced for the worst affected areas and for a limited time. This will be based on a recommendation from the Chief Medical Officer.
Full guidance for Clinically Extremely Vulnerable people will be published on 1 April here. www.gov.uk/coronavirus.