This article was created on 21/12/2020 and will be updated frequently. Last updated following the Government statement on 28/01/2021.
Following the latest government update announcing an extended lockdown until at least March, we want to make sure all of our patients are aware of the guidance. Coronavirus cases have been increasing across the country even since the national lockdown was announced on the 4th January. The NHS and hospitals are under more pressure than ever before.
The lockdown includes the closure of schools. However all colleges, primary (reception onwards) and secondary schools will remain open for vulnerable children and the children of critical workers only. All other children will learn remotely until 8th of March at the earliest.
Rules for lockdown – stay at home
These lockdown rules are enshrined in law and will stay in place until at least March. People must stay at home, only going outside for the following reasons:-
- To shop for basic necessities, for you or a vulnerable person
- To go to work (or provide voluntary or charitable services) but only if you cannot reasonably do so from home
- To exercise with your household (or support bubble) or one other person: this should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area. Stay 2 metres apart from anyone not in your household.
- To meet your support bubble or childcare bubble where necessary, but only if you are legally permitted to form one
- To seek medical assistance or avoid injury, illness or risk of harm (including domestic abuse)
- To attend education or childcare – for those eligible
If you are clinically extremely vulnerable, you should only go out for medical appointments, exercise, or if it is essential. You should not attend work.
If you do leave home for a permitted reason, you should stay in your local area (unless acceptable to go further for reasons such as work).
You can read the full details on what you can and can’t do in the national lockdown on the Government website here.
We’re here to support you and those who need us
It’s important that everyone follows the rules and stays at home as much as possible, for the good of us all. We want to reassure our patients that we have a good supply of medicines and are well prepared to continue making sure you get your medication delivered safely. We advise you to place your order 10 working days before you are due to run out, as this will help everyone involved in the process to make sure you receive your medication on time.
We’ve saved our patients over 4 millions trips outside since the lockdown in March and can help make sure anyone you know can get their NHS prescription medication safely without leaving home. It’s quick and easy for you to register a family member you care for; or just click the button below to send a message to any family or friends with a health condition, to help them to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary journeys and queues.
