Talking Point

Laura Coventry reflects on what the COVID lockdowns taught us and how we have changed.

CAST your mind back four years. What were you doing? The chances are you weren’t doing very much at all, as the nation ground to a standstill during one of the first-ever lockdowns.

The first UK lockdown was announced on March 23, but was then extended on April 16 for the first time – almost four years ago to this day.

For many people across the nation, whatever age or stage in your life, it brought a number of challenges.

But not all of them were negative.

In many cases, families, individuals and communities went on their own unique journey, as we navigated our way through this uncertain time.

Habits, behaviours and relationships changed – some of them for the better.

We became less about “self” and more focused on community and helping others.

We grew closer to family members and friends – and even strangers. We also embraced kindness.

The lockdowns connected us in ways that we could never have predicted – despite it being a time where we were banned from attending events, visiting family members, socialising or venturing out our own homes.

The video call – a dreaded technology in PRE-COVID times – became the norm as we participated in virtual catch-ups, online nights in and family quizzes.

Take That legend Gary Barlow said in a radio interview that he was enjoying lockdown as he was “getting so much done”.

The singer was selfisolating in his home studio working on his music, as well as spending time at home with his wife and their three children.

During lockdown, he also lifted our spirits, as did fellow musicians unable to work or perform.

Gary recorded duets with other music legends – including Alfie Boe, Ronan Keating and Boy George – for his Crooner Sessions.

He recorded almost 100 in total, and they are still available to watch on Youtube.

Meanwhile, everyone’s favourite choir master, Gareth Malone, lifted spirits as he got the nation singing en masse, while body coach Joe Wicks brought us together with virtual fitness workouts each day.

The National Theatre screened a number of its past performances online as we came together virtually for a visit to the theatre.

Life was different then. But, as we reflect, what have the COVID lockdowns taught us? What have we learned from that time?

Have your behaviours or relationships improved?

Are there any habits or traditions you introduced during lockdown that you upheld?

We grew closer to family members and friends