This week felt like we had taken a significant step forward in our fight against COVID and a return to normality.
On Monday, the second stage of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown began – this saw non-essential retail reopen, hairdressers and beauticians being able to see clients, and pubs serving customers outside. This has been an incredibly difficult time for these businesses, so it was great to see people getting excited about returning to pubs or getting their hair done! Now, more than ever, is the time to support local businesses and show our appreciation for the sacrifices they have made.
The Government also confirmed this week that it had met its target of offering a vaccine to everyone over 50, as well as carers and people who are clinically vulnerable, by the 15th April. This is a huge achievement and means we have vaccinated the groups of people who make up 99% of Covid-19 fatalities. It is estimated that the vaccine programme has already saved over 10,000 lives between December and March.
Following this news, we can now move on to the second phase of the vaccine programme, with vaccine appointments opening to everyone between the ages of 45-49. I was fortunate enough to be able to book and receive my first vaccination too this week.
I am not normally a fan of needles, but I was incredibly excited when I arrived at the Steam Museum vaccination centre for my jab. I visited the vaccination centre in February and was very impressed with how smooth the whole operation was, so I knew it was going to be a very quick and straightforward visit. The staff and volunteers were wonderful, and I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped make the Steam Centre so successful, it really is hugely important in our fight against the virus.
Having received my vaccine, I feel a huge sense of relief – not only that I will have protection against Covid-19, but I am also far less likely to pass it on to those around me. It has been said many times before, but the vaccine is our best way of saving lives and ending lockdown. Please get yours when the time comes.
As well as vaccines, testing has been an important tool to contain the virus, and this week the Government announced that everyone will be able to secure rapid lateral flow tests, regardless of whether they have symptoms or not.
About 1 in 3 people with coronavirus do not have symptoms but can still infect others, so this regular testing will be able to detect people who have the virus asymptomatically and prevent them from spreading it unknowingly. To get tests please see the NHS website.
Last Friday, we also heard the very sad news that Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, had passed away. He was in public life for more than 70 years, serving his country and providing unwavering support to the Queen - his loss will be felt deeply by many.
Prince Phillip was a keen advocate for encouraging young people to be active, something I am equally passionate about and have worked hard to promote. One of Prince Philip’s most enduring legacies will be The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which has helped millions of young people across the world. Along with the fitness benefits, the award encourages public service and a sense of adventure – traits Prince Philip so clearly demonstrated throughout his life.
