WORRIED ABOUT VULNERABLE BROTHER

Dear Coleen

My younger brother has a health condition that affects his immunity, so he’s at increased risk of Covid. He was advised to shield but, despite this, he continued to go into work.

He’s on a training scheme in the public sector and doing well, and doesn’t want to jeopardise his progress and, ultimately, his job.

I feel responsible for him, as our parents have passed away, but every time I try to talk to him about it, he just says he’s being very careful and his employer has put excellent safety procedures in place. He never told his employers he was advised to shield.

Can you advise?

Coleen says

I can appreciate how worried you are for him. And I’m sure if he told his employers, they would be supportive in line with Government guidance.

However, unfortunately, all you can do is reiterate the risks and express your concerns. He’s a grown man and you shouldn’t feel responsible for his decision.

You can’t force him to tell his employers or make him stay at home against his will. I understand it doesn’t stop you worrying, though! I suppose none of us knows what’s going to happen next with the virus and with future lockdowns. The way things are going, the choice may be taken away from him and he may be forced to be at home along with everyone else.

This situation has opened up all kinds of worries for people, not least financial worries and the threat of job losses and, sadly, your brother might feel he has to prioritise these ahead of the health risks.

Be supportive and let him know you’re there for him if he ever wants to talk about it.