Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Masks needed
They’ll become second nature says Health Minister Cases: Deaths: 291,911 45,053 Cases:13,588,054 Deaths: 583,879 25% rise in calls for help to Childline Partner’s pain at cancer rules
important way to show solidarity with them.”
Yesterday Ulster Unionist leader Steve Aiken welcomed the statement as a sensible move.
He said: “The need to ensure that we are not overwhelmed by any new wave of Covid-19 is paramount.
“Spikes and outbreaks across our nation, islands and beyond show that until a proven vaccine arrives, we must take precautions such as wearing face coverings.”
Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael
Mcbride also backed the move. He told the BBC: “It is the right thing to do and proper and respectful thing to do – we need to change the behaviour now, we need to get public used to them, the time is now.
“I would like to see us take all steps necessary to ensure by July 31, many more of us are wearing face coverings, we have a duty to ensure that’s the case. I was not convinced from the outset but there is greater evidence now.” Meanwhile, shielders and their carers say compulsory face masks could help them taste freedom for the first time in months.
Marie Tunney’s daughter Eve has profound disabilities and has only recently gone beyond their Carryduff cul-de-sac.
The mum of two said: “I personally will feel much happier when everyone is wearing them. “We’re some of the only people going into shops with masks on – we’re protecting other people but they’re not really protecting us.
“It does feel a little bit at the moment as if everybody thinks it’s gone, it’s done.”
A WOMAN is calling for a review on the coronavirus restrictions for cancer patients in order to stop them going through treatment alone.
The 33-year-old, who does not wish to be named, said she and her partner have found it “heartbreaking” that she has been unable to accompany her during her cancer treatment and scans.
Her partner, 45, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the spring and has had sessions of gruelling chemotherapy ever since.
The woman said: “Since April my partner has been undergoing cancer
CHILDLINE has seen an increase in kids reaching out with mental health concerns in Northern Ireland.
Data from the charity reveals there have been 373 counselling sessions about wellbeing since the coronavirus lockdown.
They report seeing a 25% increase in children getting in touch about their health during this time.
Founder Esther Rantzen said: “During lockdown, the virus has imprisoned children in homes which may not be safe, with emotional and physical abuse, violence, or neglect.
“But as lockdown eases, and as life continues to feel uncertain and challenging, it is essential that in addition to Childline our children have access to the mental health resources they will need to help them cope.”
Childline had to close its night service for the first time due to a 30% drop in volunteer hours as some counsellors had to self-isolate.
It says funding for the Still Here For Children appeal “has never been more important”. treatment alone as I have not been allowed to sit by her side.
“Most of the treatment has taken place in a room, by herself, in the Ulster Independent Clinic, and even though we live together and I took her to and from appointments, I have not been allowed to join her.
“It doesn’t seem like common sense is being used as other people can attend appointments with their partners but we cannot.”
A Department of Health spokesman said: “These restrictions will not stay in place longer than is absolutely necessary.”