From Monday 6 July, those shielding from coronavirus can gather in groups of up to six people outdoors and form a ‘support bubble’ with another household. The Government shielding support package will remain in place until the end of July when people will no longer be advised to shield. From 1 August, those who need to work and cannot do so from home will be able to return to work (if they have no symptoms) as long as their workplace is COVID secure, adhering to the guidance available. For more details, see the Government’s guidance on shielding.

The Government will be sending letters explaining the new advice to everyone who has been asked to self-isolate for the last 12 weeks due to having a health condition which makes them clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID-19.

The food parcels sent by the Government to those shielding will stop as of 1 August, as individuals are advised they can visit shops and pharmacies.

However, other forms of support – such as priority supermarket delivery slots, help from Cornwall Council, Volunteer Cornwall and the NHS Volunteers Scheme – will continue.

Cornwall Council and Volunteer Cornwall will continue supporting shielded and other vulnerable residents if they need support with food shopping or collections, getting priority supermarket delivery slots, prescriptions, befriending and getting online for help.

If anyone needs extra support they should contact Cornwall Council on 0300 1233334 or email covid19@cornwall.gov.uk or contact Volunteer Cornwall on 01872 266988 or email requestforhelp@volunteercornwall.org.uk.