Today, Boris Johnson announced a new phase in implementing lockdown which will come into force on the 4th July in England. Included in the new measures are the reopening of pubs, hotels, restaurants and campsites, whilst nightclubs, casinos and swimming pools will remain closed. As well as the flexibility for hospitality businesses to reopen, Johnson has also introduced measures to reduce the space between people to “one metre plus” – effectively staying a metre apart but with increased prevention measures such as using PPE and using hand sanitiser. 

When questioned on the risk factor of these new measures, England’s Chief Medical Officer, Chris Witty warned that, in hindsight, these measures could be wrong and they aren’t without risk. Many scientists have also raised concerns over reducing the two metre rule, given that the country may be experiencing up to 4,300 Covid-19 infections a day.

In spite of this scepiticism, understandably many are thrilled to get back to a new sense of ‘normal’ and, not least, have the ability to get their hair trimmed among other things. Many also argue that a swift easing of lockdown is needed in order to prevent more businesses from going under and achieve the economic bounce back that the country so desperately needs.

Like the rest of the country, our contributors are understandably divided on this issue with feelings ranging from anxiety over the new measures to utter joy over their ability to socialise in person again.

The large majority of our contributors are very fearful of what the easing of lockdown could mean going forward:

Whilst many are thrilled with their new found sense of ‘freedom’ after months in lockdown, today’s news fills me with more dread than joy. Although a good handful of people will behave responsibly and maintain their distance wherever possible, I fear that the decision to ease lockdown this soon, despite 171 deaths today, will lead to people erasing all the effort we’ve put in thus far to eradicate coronavirus from our lives. Based on indications from some SAGE members, I wouldn’t be suprised if we were on track for another wave of the virus.   – Lauren McGaun (@lauren_mcgaun)

“Maybe we should skip the beer garden, just for a little while longer, so that it is parties we attend come autumn and not wakes.”

Sure, I want a pint with my mates and I would love to set foot in my local again. I can’t wait to dance, to sweat out the tequila shots and cheer as my song plays. Who wouldn’t? But I am scared that all we will get is a second wave of heartbreaking deaths to add to the 43,000 or more. Come September, will a cold pint of lager be worth the bodies we will have to bury? Maybe we should skip the beer garden, just for a little while longer, so that it is parties we attend come autumn and not wakes. – Imy Brighty-Potts (@imybrightypotts)

I personally think that easing the lockdown measures on July 4th is a mistake. Prioritising the economy over public health could result in another spike. As a young person, it is likely I would be asymptomatic. If I took advantage of these new lockdown measures, I fear I would be putting the lives of my loved ones in danger! Therefore, I must base my decisions not on my own life, but on the health and well-being of others. I am not willing to risk anything quite yet. – Darcey Edkins

I think, as a Scottish person, living in Scotland, that England have taken too big a leap. To open pubs will surely cause more trouble than good as drunk people struggle with the simplest of things nevermind staying a distance apart from those around them. I just fear that this could cause a second wave due to people taking advantage of these easings and bend the rules to suit themselves. – Rachel Gibson (@rlgibsonn)

I think the language that has been used to communicate this relaxation of rules is confusing and quite concerning- especially the suggestion that where possible people should keep 2 metres apart and when it’s not people should keep “1 metre plus” apart. I think this will probably further justify the actions of those on social media who have already ‘given up’ on social distancing altogether. It is also likely that this could be a way for the Prime Minister to shirk some of the responsibility if we do happen to have a second peak, by placing responsibility on the publics’ judgements that will vary a lot depending on the individual. – Amy Holliday (@amy_holliday01)

“But, are we really ‘free’ from July 4th? I’m certainly not free from the never ending anxiety that I have been infected my loved ones and that worries me endlessly.”

Today’s announcement was expected, many have been counting down the days until July rolls around where an apparent sense of freedom will greet us once again. But, are we really ‘free’ from July 4th? I’m certainly not free from the never ending anxiety that I may have infected my loved ones and that worries me endlessly. How can we pop out for a haircut or watch a newly released film when the virus has only been tamed? I for one, won’t and dread to hear about those who will now flout the new ‘one metre plus’ rule. – Nicole Rich (@nicoleannrich)

“I do feel that we’re prioritising the needs of the economy over the health of the nation.”

Those who have been shielding also have fears about what the easing of lockdown could mean for them:

Perhaps I am saying this out of anxiety, but as someone who is coming out of shielding, I do feel that we’re prioritising the needs of the economy over the health of the nation. I am also hesitant about adhering to 1m social distancing rules, when local stories about meat packing factories, outbreaks and home-based deaths seem to be underreported. Of course, we do need to get back to normal, but surely we cannot do this overnight? I worry people are becoming complacent and heading full speed ahead, without considering potential consequences. I hope I am wrong though.  – April Ryan (@A_L_Ryan)

There are some, however, who are largely enthusiastic about their new found sense of freedom:

I think it’s probably too early to be communicating a winding down of restrictions – people seem to have taken them quite liberally thus far – but there’s no denying it will make life a lot happier for me. I’m going to ignore much of what Boris says, as per usual, and continue to limit going out to essential or very socially distanced outings. It is nice to finally see a light at the end of the tunnel, though! – Serafina Kenny (@serafinakenny_)

For myself, announcing 1m will make me feel more at ease while socialising, as that’s what most people have been doing anyway. I think without opening stuff up, people will become more irritable and ignore rules even further, so it’s the right choice. On the other hand, I think for others the rule will be taken advantage of and social distancing is likely to be forgotten as pubs open (drinking and distancing will NOT mix). – Megan Price 

Living in a rural area where one of the most exciting things I can do is walk up a hill I am happy to have some more freedom to see people indoors. Many young people have been on walks with friends maybe with only one metre between and I think these new measures will allow for more flexibility. However it is so crucial right now to protect those who are still at risk. It’s a tricky situation but I believe the majority of us have the common sense to know how to look after our loved ones whilst supporting our own well being and socialising. – Jess Walmsley (@jess_walmsley11)

“An existence deprived of social interaction and affection is no life at all.”

From a mental health and wellbeing perspective, the increase in freedom to socialise and escape from months of seclusion will come as a relief to many people. The physical health of the country should certainly be prioritised, and there is no denying the palpable sense of anxiety that now permeates the minutiae of daily life across the country, but loneliness kills too. For those who are able and responsible, returning to work in a local pub or having lunch with friends will provide immense gratification to lives immured in solitude. An existence deprived of social interaction and affection is no life at all. – Florence Herlihy (@FlorenceHerlihy)

If you have any thoughts about what the recent announcement to ease lockdown in England then please comment them down below.

Lauren McGaun

Featured images courtesy of Number 10 on Flickr. Image license found here. No changes were made to this image.

Lauren is a freelance journalist at BBC Politics. She helped set up EJ as Co-Founder and used to be Editor in Chief for over a year. Most evenings you will find her sipping Aperol Spritz whilst watching the news or a documentary.

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