COVID-19 in North Somerset: stories of shielding and self-isolating

Healthwatch North Somerset conducted research into stories of shielding and self-isolating. The report summarises the feedback and stories they have heard from local people about their experience of shielding or self-isolating during the lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In June, 45 shielding and self-isolating residents agreed to tell Healthwatch North Somerset about their experiences of seeking information and government’s guidance related to COVID-19, the effect of lockdown on their wellbeing, and their support need and satisfaction with the support they received.

Of the survey respondents, 80% considered themselves to be at high risk from CV19 but only 23% of them received a letter or text advising them to shield. 72% said they had an existing health condition whilst 58% are aged 70 or over. 58% live by themselves and 29% of all respondents do not receive any help from family or friends. 22% do not have access to the Internet and 13% did not find it easy to understand the information about how to keep themselves and others safe during COVID-19. 37% found it difficult to get clear information or advice about particular topics especially those relating to their health. 29% experienced changes to the delivery of their healthcare due to CV19 and from those 38% rated the communication received about the changes as poor or very poor. 63% said they felt isolated or lonely in lockdown. 54% felt this affected their wellbeing and impacted on their physical health. 90% said that they received the support they needed from the Community Aid groups and 92% were happy or very happy with the support provided.

As a result of these findings, Healthwatch North Somerset recommends that information should be clear and concise, with guidelines that are age and condition specific to keep residents safe from a virus as well as information on who should be shielding. Empower residents by increasing local radio stations and papers to inform residents who do not use the internet and give them links to local community support as well as locating technical support so they can use video conferencing and health apps. GP surgeries to provide clear guidelines to patients on the requisition and collection of repeat prescriptions and managing routine and regular tests as well as link vulnerable people to social prescribers or primary care mental health workers.