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06
Jan 2021
Online support group steps up for shielders in Harrogate district
The organisers of an online support group for shielders across the Harrogate district say they hope more will join them following the announcement of a new lockdown.
Susie Little, who founded the Covid Co-operation Harrogate Facebook group last March, said the announcement that very vulnerable people must begin shielding again has left many feeling anxious.
She is hopeful that the smaller group, Shielders' Support, will provide both reassurance and comfort to people who face another period of weeks at home. She said:
Read more:
- My Year: Harrogate covid group founder's hope for community in 2021
- Harrogate district prepares as national lockdown announced
While practical support - such as shopping and collecting prescriptions - was important during the first lockdown and will be again now, that has mostly been organised through the main Covid Co-operation group, by Susie and other volunteers.
By contrast, the shielding group is a place for members to express their feelings and frustrations, getting support and empathy from fellow shielders.
Although the group was set up in the Harrogate district, it includes people from around the country - though it remains relatively small, with just 130 members, after being set up in May as the first lockdown was coming to an end. Susie hopes more shielding people will get to know about it this time and turn to it for the emotional support they need to get through the coming difficult weeks.
To join the group, search for Shielders Support on Facebook.
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