How is the Covid-19 outbreak affecting you and your loved ones?

Healthwatch Central West London undertook a survey of local people about the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.  209 people responded to the survey.

Over 3 in 5 people mentioned the challenge of staying well whilst social distancing, with people worried about relatives and neighbours, having less time outdoors and feeling lonely if self isolating alone.  Nearly 2 in 5 voiced mental health concerns, with people feeling trapped or lonely and having to deal with anxiety about the scale and impact of the pandemic. 15% felt money worries impacted their health and wellbeing, including not having work and little or no income. 22% mentioned health issues which are not related to the pandemic which are being neglected or produced as a result of the coronavirus response.  Some were waiting to be classed as shielded, others had had elective surgeries or treatment cancelled, the lockdown exacerbating long term conditions, and the impact of cancelled activities on their condition.

The report highlights that there was a marked increase in mental health concerns in weeks 3 and 4 of the survey compared to the first two weeks of the survey, whereas concerns about getting food supplies had decreased over the same period.  The report ends with some of the ways survey respondents have used to stay well and cope during the pandemic, including staying in touch with loved ones, making the most of exercise, managing media intake and help from neighbours.