As lockdown restrictions are easing, more shops are opening, and people are being encouraged back to work, many vulnerable people including those living with cancer are feeling confused and anxious about how the new measures will affect them.
Macmillan Cancer Support is calling on the government to ensure that people who are ‘shielding’ get clear communication so that vulnerable people can feel safe and access the support they need.
29-year-old Sarah Davis is a freelance artist and sculptor and lives in East London. She was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma in 2017 and had to have a stem cell transplant in 2018. Sarah was supported by Macmillan Cancer Support throughout treatment and recovery and says:
“I feel quite conflicted. On the one hand I am glad vulnerable and shielding people are being discussed but the move is just so sudden and has added to the confusion. I personally would’ve liked discussion and evidence of a wider plan for people who are shielding – not snap decisions that, quite frankly seem irresponsible. I’ve seen no scientific evidence being presented to justify the move. I don’t feel comfortable to go out. The infection rate is still quite high.
null
Sarah, out and about in London pre-lockdown
“I live in East London. I love it, its thriving and lively but so, so busy. Which makes the idea of venturing out after 12 weeks quite an intimidating prospect. I am currently furloughed from a part time job, which is a relief as I have lost all my freelance creative work. I am able to work on personal art projects from home, which is a real boost although I miss my art studio, but I only feel comfortable going back to work when it is safe to do so.”
Anna Collishaw-Nikodemus, Macmillan Policy and Campaigns Manager for London says:
“Many people living with cancer in London are having to make decisions about new advice and whether they feel safe to go out once a day. So, we are asking the government to communicate really clearly with people who are shielding, and those that support them. This will help them make decisions about whether they or members of their household should leave home, go to work or school.”
Emma Tingley, Macmillan Strategic Partnerships Manager in London adds:
“We speak to people affected by cancer, like Sarah, every day via our support line and know the emotional impact of the outbreak is taking its toll on people who are already struggling so we are determined to ensure that cancer is not the forgotten ‘C’ in this pandemic. As Macmillan Cancer Support is almost entirely funded by public donations we’re asking people to give what they can, so that we can continue to provide vital support to people with cancer particularly at this difficult time. If you’re able to, please donate to our emergency appeal today.”
To donate to Macmillan Cancer Support’s emergency appeal please go to: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/emergency or call 0300 1000 200.
The free Macmillan Support Line is open seven days a week between 8am – 8pm, on 0808 808 00 00 or visit www.macmillan.org.uk/coronavirus .
