'Widespread confusion and anxiety' over lockdown easing, says Sheffield watchdog

Healthwatch Sheffield, the consumer watchdog for health and social care services, said voluntary organisations across the city had highlighted a number of problems.

It says in a council report: “There is unclear government messaging - there is widespread confusion and heightened levels of anxiety following the most recent government announcement easing the lockdown.

“We continue to hear from people who are shielding about the communication they receive. One person told us that they receive daily texts from their GP, reminding them that they are vulnerable and at increased risk of dying if they catch the virus. They find this unsettling.”

Disability Sheffield also said there was an ‘ongoing lack of clarity’ regarding who was extremely vulnerable and shielding.

It said: “Some people received letters at the start of lockdown, some a few weeks later, some conditions you would expect to qualify someone as extremely vulnerable were not on the list.

“Some people who did not expect to be on the extremely vulnerable list, received a letter to say they should be shielding.

“This has caused a high level of anxiety for many disabled people unsure of the guidance they should be following and precautions they should be taking.

“It has also been unclear what support people were entitled to as a result of receiving a letter with reports of mixed responses from people when approaching GPs for assistance and clarity.”

Disability Sheffield said there had also been lack of clarity around lockdown restrictions for people with learning difficulties.

It said: “We have seen a case where an individual was told the restrictions meant they could not go outside at all, including for a walk. This was challenged, but highlights concern around whether the rules were explained in a clear and accessible way.

“More recently we have reports of supported living providers imposing restrictions that are tighter than government guidance, in response to their own risk-assessments, which are affecting individuals ability to meet with family and friends, in a socially distanced way.”

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