Covid-19 Shielders: Left Adrift

Inclusion London’s report on the experiences of Disabled People shielding since the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020

This is our report on the experiences of Disabled People shielding since the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020.

Disabled people have been forgotten, abandoned and left without adequate support throughout the pandemic.

Our report explores the key issues we identified and our recommendations on what needs to be done to improve the situation, now as well as in the long term.

You can download the full report here:

Summary

Key Issues identified

The pandemic has brought to light many issues that Disabled people, generally, and those shielding from Covid-19 are facing. They have ranged from problems with accessing food and healthcare to isolation and loneliness – all combining to have critical and, in some cases, irreversible consequences. Key issues identified in our surveys include:

  • Mental Distress
  • Access to Healthcare 
  • Access to Food
  • Employment 
  • Housing
  • Financial Difficulties 
  • Right to Life
  • Social Care and Community Support
  • Value of Disabled Lives
  • Isolation and Loneliness

Summary of Recommendations

It is clear that the government must put in immediate measures to address the plight of Shielders. These measures are time-sensitive and must be implemented now, especially in the context of a third national lockdown.

Immediate asks:

  • A financial stimulus package for Shielders
  • Support from supermarkets and online retailers
  • Give Local Authorities funding to support Shielders
  • A vaccine education programme 
  • Improve access to healthcare
  • Investment in mental distress support
  • Improved digital accessibility and clarity of guidance
  • An auditing scheme for Covid-secure organisations

Long term asks:

  • Access to broadband, technology and training
  • A guarantee that homeworking will be offered after the pandemic
  • Equality impact assessments for all measures responding to Covid-19 to access how they will affect Disabled people

You can download the full report here:

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