Weekly update – Wales

An update from Emma, the Policy and Engagement Manager for Genetic Alliance UK in Wales:

• We have been in touch with Welsh Government to clarify the position for those shielding following easing of some of the lockdown measures in Wales. The advice has been that people do not have to go outdoors to meet others, only that it is deemed less of a risk if it is done under certain conditions and if strict hygiene is followed. Where unable to follow the guidance and based on the balance of risks and benefits to individuals, people should continue to shield. Support will remain in place for those shielding for shopping and pharmacy needs.
• The test, trace, protect service is now up and running. Close contacts of people who have tested positive for Coronavirus will be asked to self-isolate for 14 days.  Anyone will symptoms of the virus can apply for a home test kit or make an appointment at a drive-through test centre. Appointments for tests can be booked via the new online portal.
• The Education Minister, Kirsty Williams announced on Wednesday that schools will be reopening from 29 June.  People will be brought into school in very small groups, the term will be be extended for a week to Monday 27 July and attendance will be voluntary – there will not be any fines should pupils not attend. Children who are shielding or children of parents who are shielding will not return but schools will continue to support online/ at a distance.
• We have been liaising with the Welsh Health Specialised Services Committee (WHSSC) and  will be feeding in experiences from our community about how access to specialised services has been affected since the start of the pandemic. We are looking for case studies where groups are not receiving treatments, outpatient appointments or homecare, of any cancellations of other types of monitoring appointments or from patients who usually access services in England and these are being disrupted. Please email your examples to me, emma@geneticalliance.org.uk.

If you have any specific issues relating to Wales, please email me, emma@geneticalliance.org.uk.