Coronavirus Challenge Day 8
Monday 23rd March 2020 - the UK has locked down
Something happened over the weekend that convinced me that it was time to wear a mask not least to remind myself of the seriousness of the situation.
People question the effectiveness of masks for me it is a visual sign that we are in different times. For those who have still to go into work, it is a sign to employers that workers are placing themselves at risk and that we all have a responsibility to our Health and Safety.
Contradictions always exist and at this time the contradiction is a firm message to stay home yet others termed as ‘keyworkers’ continue to report for work on the frontline.
I made my way as I do via bus and train to Luton. Bus drivers and train staff now operate a Saturday service as seen in the above video.
While many rightly focus on NHS staff having the right protective equipment there is also the need for those staff keeping key services running to be protected as by the very nature of their work they are at risk.
I am aware that members of my Union Napo have raised their voices to ensure their Health and Safety is protected with some leading the way by creating physical distances in reception areas to honour social distancing. I am reminded to never totally rely on others to protect you, keep your wits and do what you must to protect yourself.
As I travelled on the bus this morning I saw on windows of differing homes children's drawings of rainbows. I was moved and connected to ancestors for who the rainbow was a symbol of hope and the message ‘this too will pass’.
Things were changing today. Whatever we may think and I know we have questions we either take this serious or live in contradiction. So we take the advice as serious we then have to seriously protect ourselves.
It was still a surprise to most of us to hear Boris announce the lockdown at 8 30 pm. There still lacks total clarity but the message is certainly firmer.
I got the sense that anything people had to do they were doing it as Boris was still talking.
Best,
g
