We have done this before – and we can get through it again now!

Due to rapidly increasing cases of coronavirus across the country a national lockdown has once again been put in place. It is vital at this time that you stay at home as much as possible and this will be law from Wednesday 6 January 2021 in order to protect everyone.

There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule, designed to help you through this tough phase of controlling the virus.

You are allowed to leave the house to:

  • shop for food and necessities, for yourself or a vulnerable person
  • go to work if you cannot do so from home
  • exercise outdoors – limited to once a day, in your local area and only with your household, bubble or one other person
  • meet your support or childcare bubble –  but only if you are legally permitted to form one
  • seek medical assistance, get a COVID-19 test or avoid risk of harm (including domestic abuse)

Please note:

Many popular walking spots in our county are becoming very busy as people go out to enjoy their daily exercise. If you can’t social distance there is a risk of the virus spreading. If you arrive somewhere and it is busy, please consider going elsewhere or coming back at a quieter time.

We know it can be tricky to know what you can and can’t do during these times. Full, up to date, details of the current national restrictions can be found at the GOV.uk website.

As ever, on the occasions you are out of the house, please remember hands, face, space.

If you do start to feel unwell at any point, no matter how slight the symptoms, make sure to book a test as soon as you can and self isolate until you know the results.

Lockdown life

Living under lockdown restrictions is a tricky adjustment for everyone, no matter your circumstances. There are some simple ways you can relieve the pressure of being cooped up 24/7 though.

You are still allowed out to exercise and this is a great way to make sure you don’t feel like you are getting cabin fever inside your own home. If you live alone, ensuring you get out for a daily walk with one other person should help ease the lack of human interaction (or if you don’t live alone – a great chance for some headspace and peace and quiet!). You can also still meet a personal trainer outside for a one on one session if you are missing them gym. When meeting another person it is, of course, vital that you keep a safe distance of 2 meters from one another.

It’s as vital as ever to look after those around you, but also to ensure you are looking after yourself both physically and mentally. Over the course of the several months we have posted many articles on the best ways to do this. From healthy eating tips, to things to keep the kids occupied and the dos and don’ts of mask wearing – we have you covered from all angles!

Keep in touch

Please make sure you are checking in on your friends and neighbours. Video calling has become commonplace for many of us and, while not the same as actually being with people, is an excellent way to check in and see a friendly face. Do not discount the value of other forms of communication though. A quick phone call to a relative, a letter or postcard in the mail or even a quick text message just to let someone know you are thinking of them can mean so much.

Minding your mental health

Lockdown is tough. Daily life during a pandemic is tough. It’s okay to be fed up but be mindful of how you are feeling and take care of your mental health as well as your physical health. If you do find you are struggling there is help available.

Visit Every Mind Matters for tips on how to manage your mental health during lockdown.

Keep up to date with the latest Coronavirus news

The East Sussex County Council newsletter is a great source of updates for all changes and info regarding restrictions and local advice.