Why some won’t be clapping
MIXED FEELINGS OVER ‘HEROES’ CAMPAIGN
THE return of the weekly Clap for Carers as England enters a third coronavirus lockdown has divided opinion in Nottinghamshire.
Annemarie Plas, the woman behind the original events at the start of the pandemic, says the new initiative will be named Clap for Heroes.
The first event was held last night. Millions of people across the country stood in their doorways to applaud the work of the emergency services at the start of the pandemic.
But readers of the Post’s Facebook page had mixed feelings about its return.
Benzel Hemstock said: “As a frontline worker I’d ask you to show support by sticking to the rules so we can get out of this crappy situation. Not clapping on your doorstep once a week then completely ignoring the rules about mixing.
“If we stop moving then the virus dies. It’s as simple as that!”
Tracy Tyler said: “Think a pay rise would have been a more appropriate and essential show of appreciation, however, I can see how clapping acknowledges their incredible work and allows the community to show personal appreciation for their work and sacrifices made.”
But Julie Harvey said: “I see negative comments – no need guys. Clapping is a good thing, pulls us together, and lets all those working NHS – carers, cleaners, cooks and everyone working – know we appreciate them. Costs nothing, let’s clap for heroes and everyone stay safe.”
Ms Plas said she hoped the new events could “lift the spirits of all of us – carers, teachers, homeschooling parents, those who shield and everyone who is pushing through this difficult time”.
But some readers felt it was not the best way to show their appreciation.
Lisa Jane Allison said: “The first time around it felt genuine and it naturally grew – it seems odd to just start the clap again every time we go into a lockdown. What about the rest of time – aren’t we bothered about them then?”
Joe Herrod added: “To quote a consultant friend of mine who is frontline NHS – ‘please don’t start clapping again on a Thursday. Just don’t. Key workers need real actions to help them not showy fluff that does absolutely nothing of any practical value’.”
Gem Ashby said: “No thank you! What a kick in the teeth, having worked the whole way through the pandemic. Think I speak on behalf of all key workers in saying we would much prefer people to stick to the rules.
“Clap for heroes feels like an insult when people wont follow basic rules.”