inews--2020-05-20--What is level 3 of the UK lockdown? The next step of the coronavirus alert system explained, and wha

What is level 3 of the UK lockdown? The next step of the coronavirus alert system explained, and what it means for lockdown rules

What is level 3 of the UK lockdown ?
The next step of the coronavirus alert system explained , and what it means for lockdown rules Moving down the 5-level alert system will bring with it a range of loosened lockdown restrictions Sharma ’ s announcement came at Sunday ’ s ( 17 May ) daily press briefing , where he said such a move was only possible due to the public adhering to the government 's social distancing guidelines .
He thanked the public saying , “ Throughout the period of lockdown we have been at level four .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ country , we have collectively helped to bring the R level down .
We are now in a position to begin moving to level three , in careful steps.
” What is the five level alert system ?
“ And , in turn , that Covid Alert Level will tell us how tough we have to be in our social distancing measures – the lower the level the fewer the measures .
The higher the level , the tougher and stricter we will have to be .
“ There will be five alert @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is no longer present in the UK and Level Five is the most critical – the kind of situation we could have had if the NHS had been overwhelmed.
” Eventually the government plans for the levels in the colour-coded system to reflect the threat of Covid-19 in certain areas of the country , rather than the country as a whole , and this will then be used to inform local lockdown restrictions .
What are the five levels ?
What is the current level ?
The UK is currently operating in level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level it has been since March , and for the entirety of the UK lockdown .
What is level three of lockdown ?
If the country moved to level three , as Sharma has predicted it will soon will , social distancing rules will begin to be relaxed .
It is the Joint Biosecurity Centre ( JBC ) - an organisation ran by Tom Hurd , a counter-terrorism specialist - that will use testing to identify changes in infection rates , as well as environmental and workplace data , to advise chief medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in level four on the alert system , there has already been some gradual easing of lockdown restrictions , following the prime minister 's speech on Sunday 10 May .

The UK’s chief medical officers have agreed to downgrade the coronavirus alert level from four to three after a “steady” and continuing decrease in cases in all four nations.
Whilst the virus remains in general circulation, with localised outbreaks of Covid-19 still “likely” to occur, the downgrading means the transmission of coronavirus is no longer considered to be “high or rising exponentially”.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said moving to a lower alert level was a “big moment” for the UK, and showed the country was getting “back on her feet”, adding that it was a “real testament to the British people’s determination to beat this virus.”
The news follows Mr Hancock’s announcement that for the first time since the lockdown, the number of deaths in the UK has returned to “normal”. Since the start of the year, there have been 64,000 excess deaths. But now, the levels have fallen dramatically.
Here’s what you need to know about level 3 of lockdown.
What is the five level alert system?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new five level alert system in a speech to the nation on Sunday 10 March.
He said the government’s colour-coded alert system will measure the threat from coronavirus in England, with varying levels of severity.
Mr Johnson explained that the “Covid Alert Level will be determined primarily by R rate and the number of coronavirus cases.
UPDATE: COVID-19 alert level will move from Level 4 to Level 3. However, the virus is still in general circulation, and localised outbreaks are likely to occur. You must continue to wash your hands and keep 2m distance. Read the full update ⬇https://t.co/hjEhlv3Nys — Department of Health and Social Care (@DHSCgovuk) June 19, 2020
“And, in turn, that Covid Alert Level will tell us how tough we have to be in our social distancing measures – the lower the level the fewer the measures. The higher the level, the tougher and stricter we will have to be.
“There will be five alert levels. Level One means the disease is no longer present in the UK and Level Five is the most critical – the kind of situation we could have had if the NHS had been overwhelmed.”
Eventually the government plans for the levels in the colour-coded system to reflect the threat of Covid-19 in certain areas of the country, rather than the country as a whole, and this will then be used to inform local lockdown restrictions.
What are the five levels?
The 5 alert levels are:
Level 1 COVID-19 is not known to be present in the UK
Level 2 COVID-19 is present in the UK, but the number of cases and transmission is low
Level 3 A COVID-19 epidemic is in general circulation
Level 4 A COVID-19 epidemic is in general circulation; transmission is high or rising exponentially
Level 5 As level 4 and there is a material risk of healthcare services being overwhelmed
What is the UK Covid-19 alert level now?
The easing of lockdown measures in England at the beginning of June caused concern as the Covid-19 alert level remained at four – which the Government previously said would mean restrictions remaining in place.
As of Friday 19 June the alert level is three, meaning “a COVID-19 epidemic is in general circulation”, and gradual easing of restrictions can take place.
What is level three of lockdown?
Level three of lockdown means the threat of Covid-19 in the country is “substantial”, so it’s still vital to adhere to health and safety measures such as two metre social distancing and hand washing for at least 20 seconds using water and soap.
However, it means that the gradual easing of restrictions can take place, and it’s more likely now that England’s pubs, restaurants and holiday sites may be able to slowly reopen from 4 July as planned.
Only at level two, when the number of cases and transmission is low, will minimal restrictions be permitted.
Who determines the current level?
It is the Joint Biosecurity Centre (JBC) – an organisation ran by Tom Hurd, a counter-terrorism specialist – that will use testing to identify changes in infection rates, as well as environmental and workplace data, to advise chief medical officers.
However, it remains the government ministers job to decide whether to ease or tighten the lockdown restrictions based on this data.
England’s Professor Chris Whitty, Northern Ireland’s Dr Michael McBride, Scotland’s Dr Gregor Smith and Wales’ Dr Chris Jones agreed with the JBC’s recommendation to reduce the Covid-19 alert level to three.
In a joint statement, medical officers said: “There has been a steady decrease in cases we have seen in all four nations, and this continues.”
But they warned it “does not mean that the pandemic is over” and that “localised outbreaks are likely to occur”.
They said: “We have made progress against the virus thanks to the efforts of the public and we need the public to continue to follow the guidelines carefully to ensure this progress continues.”
What does it mean for lockdown?
The government has insisted the changes to the alert level won’t directly impact lockdown.
Since the start of June, lockdown measures have been eased, with schools and certain non-essential shops re-opening, and people able to meet up outside in groups of six.
However, the latest reduction on the Covid-alert system won’t trigger immediate changes, and the government announced it will be extending the time between lockdown reviews from four weeks to three.
So the next lockdown review will take place on 25 June, a month after the last review on 28 May.


inews--2020-05-20--What is an 'air bridge'? Meaning behind the plan to exempt low-risk countries from UK travel quarant

What is an 'air bridge'? Meaning behind the plan to exempt low-risk countries from UK travel quarantine

What is an 'air bridge ' ?
Meaning behind the plan to exempt low-risk countries from UK travel quarantine A new scheme could allow Brits to travel to and from countries with a low coronavirus infection rate without going into quarantine Brits hoping for a summer holiday abroad have been given some hope in the form of `` air bridges '' .
A new scheme could allow people in the UK to travel to countries with a low coronavirus infection rate without going into quarantine upon their return .
The proposal , put forward by senior Tory MP Huw Merriman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials , Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has said .
What is an air bridge ?
An air bridge is essentially a route between two countries where the Covid-19 outbreak is under control .
It would allow people to travel freely between Britain and a list of approved countries without having to go into a mandatory quarantine on either end .
Under current plans , anyone arriving into Britain must self-isolate for 14 days , a measure which is putting many off going abroad .
But if the air bridges plan is approved , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countries with low R numbers - the average amount of people someone with the virus infects - to make exemptions .
Mr Shapps told the House of Commons on Monday : `` It is the case we should consider further improvements - for example , things like air bridges enabling people from other countries who have themselves achieved lower levels of coronavirus infection to come to the country .
`` So , those are active discussions that go beyond what will initially be a blanket situation . ''
Before this proposal the chances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had looked bleak .
The number of deaths from Covid-19 in the country has now risen over 34,000 , and government advisor Jonathan Van-Tam said on Monday that we may have to live with the virus for `` several years '' .
Asked last week if summer would be `` cancelled '' , Health Secretary Matt Hancock said : `` I think that 's likely to be the case . ''
He added : `` It is unlikely that big , lavish international holidays are going to be possible for this summer .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of life . ''

Brits hoping for a summer holiday abroad have been given some hope in the form of “air bridges”.
A new scheme will allow people in the UK to travel to countries with a low coronavirus infection rate without going into quarantine upon their return.
The proposal, put forward by senior Tory MP Huw Merriman, was backed by Transport Minister Grant Schapps, and could come into force as early as 6 July.
What is an air bridge?
An air bridge is essentially a route between two countries where the Covid-19 outbreak is under control.
It would allow people to travel freely between Britain and a list of approved countries without having to go into a mandatory quarantine on either end.
Under current plans, anyone arriving into Britain from 8 June must self-isolate for 14 days, a measure which is putting many off going abroad.
But air bridges would allow the UK Government to make agreements with countries with low R numbers – the average amount of people someone with the virus infects – to make exemptions.
The Government is planning to ease some quarantine restrictions in July, in order to aid economic recovery.
Ministers were thought to be using a five-point assessment to decide which countries will be prioritised for possible air-bridge agreements.
The criteria will include:
The economic importance of the country to the UK
The number of passengers and amount of trade
The Covid-19 “risk picture” and the health screening requirements in place at airports for passengers coming to Britain.
A country’s Covid-19 controls
Ensuring the R rate of infection in a country is low
Which countries might be included?
Around 60 countries are set to be made exempt from quarantine, a dramatic shift in policy from earlier plans, which suggested the list would be far more limited.
Spain, France, Italy and Germany are all on the list, which will be published in full on Friday 3 July.
However, the USA, Portugal and China will remain on the “red” list – which means there will still be a ban on non-essential travel to these destinations.
Transport Secretary Grant Schapps told Sky News: “There will be a list of 50-plus countries. If you add in the overseas territories, 60-something-or-other that will be announced later today.
“France, Germany, Italy and Spain will be on that list. It is really important that we have done this in a very careful and cautious way. The most important thing is to maintain the gains that we have had.”
The list was drawn up using a “traffic light” system, with air bridges granted to countries in the “green” and “amber” sections.
The system was devised by scientists, and is based on how countries are managing the Covid-19 pandemic.
He told BBC Breakfast that passengers who are currently isolating for 14 days will be able to break the restrictions legally from next Friday.
He said while “nothing could happen” before July 10, “from that point onward you will be legal not to quarantine yourself”.
“It’s very important to stress the quarantine does exist until July 10,” Mr Shapps said.
While quarantine measures will be lifted, passengers arriving in the UK will still need to fill out a “locator form”, Mr Shapps said.
Grant Shapps has said the quarantine rules will not be lifted next week for travellers arriving from the United States or from Greece.
Is it a four nation approach?
The list currently only applies to holidaymakers in England, with Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland’s devolved administrations to set out their own approach.
A Scottish Government spokesman said: “It is disappointing that the UK Government have chosen to make an announcement on the countries they intend to exempt before a four-nations agreement has been reached.
“We would still like to reach a four-nations approach if possible but that is difficult when the UK Government change proposals and give us last-minute sight of them.”
Which countries are included?
The list of countries includes the below, plus 14 British overseas territories.
Andorra
Antigua and Barbuda
Aruba
Australia
Austria
Bahamas
Barbados
Belgium
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba
Croatia
Curacao
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Dominica
Faroe Islands
Fiji
Finland
France
French Polynesia
Germany
Greece
Greenland
Grenada
Guadeloupe
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
Italy
Jamaica
Japan
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macau
Malta
Mauritius
Monaco
Netherlands
New Caledonia
New Zealand
Norway
Poland
Reunion
San Marino
Serbia
Seychelles
South Korea
Spain
St Barthelemy
St Kitts and Nevis
St Lucia
St Pierre and Miquelon
Switzerland
Taiwan
Trinidad and Tobago
Turkey
Vatican City
Vietnam
Summer no longer ‘cancelled’?
Before this proposal the chances of Brits heading abroad for the summer had looked bleak.
The number of deaths from Covid-19 in the country has now risen over 39,000, and government advisor Jonathan Van-Tam said last month that we may have to live with the virus for “several years”.
Asked in May if summer would be “cancelled”, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “I think that’s likely to be the case.”
He added: “It is unlikely that big, lavish international holidays are going to be possible for this summer. I just think that’s a reality of life.”


inews--2020-05-20--Sci-fi TV shows can help us escape lockdown - here are the best ones to watch, from Doctor Who to Up

Sci-fi TV shows can help us escape lockdown - here are the best ones to watch, from Doctor Who to Upload

Sci-fi TV shows can help us escape lockdown - here are the best ones to watch , from Doctor Who to Upload If you 're bored of staring at the same four walls , then try delving into a parallel universe or travelling to another planet Finding distractions during this uniquely difficult time , then , is vital to maintain a sense of normality and break up the deluge of bad news .
With lockdowns enforced across the globe , many of us have turned to television as part of our new daily routine .
In a way , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adding small screen downtime into their schedules - TV productions are becoming movie-esque in their scale and , as more streaming services enter the arena , there ’ s more choice on offer than ever before .
Above all others , it ’ s sci-fi that gifts us the best form of Covid-19 escapism .
Through its exploration of parallel universes , scientific and technological advancements , time travel , space traversal , and the distant or very near future , science fiction can tell stories that other genres can ’ t and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never ending talk of a pandemic .
While many dramas , comedies , thrillers , and other genres have to stay grounded in reality to work - Normal People , Never Have I Ever , and Defending Jacob to name but three - sci-fi shows are able to push the boundaries of what ’ s possible .
With the ability to transport us to weird and wonderful worlds beyond Earth and our solar system , sci-fi lets us explore new environments we will never get to see in real life .
There are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us entertained for the rest of lockdown ( Photo : BBC ) Imaginary locations untouched by humanity , in particular , are all the more appropriate amid the UK quarantine .
These imaginative , flourishing planets can help us to subconsciously receive a dose of nature to boost our mental health , and remind us that even a simple walk through our local park can calm our overactive minds .
Take Doctor Who , for instance .
The richness of the show ’ s planetary biomes and utopian landscapes give us a sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the natural world - even though they ’ re made up - into our own homes .
For those unable to venture to real-world green spaces or find some comfort in our own back garden , fictitious sci-worlds can encourage us to imagine visiting these places and psychologically feel their benefits .
Sci-fi can jump across genres , too .
Comedies , like the recently revived Red Dwarf or Sky ’ s Avenue 5 , lift our moods with laughter , while upsetting moments in sci-fi dramas can make us cry .
Shows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negative - give us a chance to release pent up stress or tension instigated by the Covid-19 pandemic .
Without these emotional outlets , we ’ d be much more likely to inadvertently take our frustrations out on those closest to us .
Even with the lockdown being eased slightly , this would only exacerbate the coronavirus problems we face living with others in our confined spaces .
The huge amount of terrestrial channels and streaming services mean there ’ s never been a better time to be a sci-fi fan .
Netflix @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Disney+ , and more provide homes for emerging science fiction series including Space Force and Solar Opposites , while the likes of the BBC and Channel 4 offer options to non-streaming viewers , such as Life on Mars and Humans .
True , an increase in sci-fi show offerings may lead to choice paralysis over what we should watch , but the abundance of choice ensures that there ’ s something for us all regardless of our preferences .
In the past , sci-fi storytellers have chosen to present the world through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But , with the capability to tell stories with optimistic outlooks or hopeful scenarios , these shows can act as the warm embrace we need during crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic .
Positivity and escapism is what we need right now and you can find both of those things by boldly going where no one has gone before .
It might not have been as strong in recent seasons to some , but Doctor Who still draws in plenty of punters .
There ’ s always a fervour ahead of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with so many Doctors by this point , fans of the show have their own favourite .
One of Apple TV+ ’ s first offerings remains one of its strongest .
For All Mankind , while set on Earth , offers an alternate take on the 1960s space race , and imagines a world where the Soviet Union beat the United States to landing on the moon first and the subsequent fallout from America ’ s defeat .
If animated sci-fi comedy is your thing , Rick and Morty should be your go-to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adult animation draws plenty of influence from The Simpsons , Doctor Who , and The Hitchhiker ’ s Guide to the Galaxy , and its humour , creativity , and charming characters make it a must-watch .

It can feel impossible to escape the unrelenting coronavirus news cycle at the moment. Push notifications from news apps, social media updates and daily Covid-19 discussions with family, friends, and work colleagues can feel overwhelming.
Finding distractions during this uniquely difficult time, then, is vital to maintain a sense of normality and break up the deluge of bad news. With lockdowns enforced across the globe, many of us have turned to television as part of our new daily routine. In a way, it’s unsurprising that we’re adding small screen downtime into their schedules – TV productions are becoming movie-esque in their scale and, as more streaming services enter the arena, there’s more choice on offer than ever before.
Above all others, it’s sci-fi that gifts us the best form of Covid-19 escapism. Through its exploration of parallel universes, scientific and technological advancements, time travel, space traversal, and the distant or very near future, science fiction can tell stories that other genres can’t and delivers a welcome respite from the seemingly never ending talk of a pandemic.
While many dramas, comedies, thrillers, and other genres have to stay grounded in reality to work – Normal People, Never Have I Ever, and Defending Jacob to name but three – sci-fi shows are able to push the boundaries of what’s possible. With the ability to transport us to weird and wonderful worlds beyond Earth and our solar system, sci-fi lets us explore new environments we will never get to see in real life.
Imaginary locations untouched by humanity, in particular, are all the more appropriate amid the UK quarantine. These imaginative, flourishing planets can help us to subconsciously receive a dose of nature to boost our mental health, and remind us that even a simple walk through our local park can calm our overactive minds.
Take Doctor Who, for instance. The richness of the show’s planetary biomes and utopian landscapes give us a sense of calm and wonder, and bring the natural world – even though they’re made up – into our own homes. For those unable to venture to real-world green spaces or find some comfort in our own back garden, fictitious sci-worlds can encourage us to imagine visiting these places and psychologically feel their benefits.
Sci-fi can jump across genres, too. Comedies, like the recently revived Red Dwarf or Sky’s Avenue 5, lift our moods with laughter, while upsetting moments in sci-fi dramas can make us cry. Shows filled with emotional resonance – positive or negative – give us a chance to release pent up stress or tension instigated by the Covid-19 pandemic. Without these emotional outlets, we’d be much more likely to inadvertently take our frustrations out on those closest to us. Even with the lockdown being eased slightly, this would only exacerbate the coronavirus problems we face living with others in our confined spaces.
The huge amount of terrestrial channels and streaming services mean there’s never been a better time to be a sci-fi fan. Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Disney+, and more provide homes for emerging science fiction series including Space Force and Solar Opposites, while the likes of the BBC and Channel 4 offer options to non-streaming viewers, such as Life on Mars and Humans. True, an increase in sci-fi show offerings may lead to choice paralysis over what we should watch, but the abundance of choice ensures that there’s something for us all regardless of our preferences.
Read More Lockdown is giving romantic dramas like Normal People an extra frisson of sexual tension
Science fiction has evolved through the generations, and its ability to subvert other genres has contributed to its growth in the TV industry.
In the past, sci-fi storytellers have chosen to present the world through a dystopian lens for the most part. But, with the capability to tell stories with optimistic outlooks or hopeful scenarios, these shows can act as the warm embrace we need during crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic. Positivity and escapism is what we need right now and you can find both of those things by boldly going where no one has gone before.
10 sci-fi shows to watch now
Devs, BBC iPlayer
Alex Garland (Ex Machina, Annihilation) tackles TV for the first time in this sci-fi thriller.
When her boyfriend disappears, computer engineer Lily (Sonoya Mizuno) investigates Amaya’s secretive development division – the company they work for and one run by mysterious CEO Forest (Nick Offerman).
Tackling philosophical beliefs including determinism and free will, Devs is an intriguing puzzler.
Watch here
Doctor Who, BBC iPlayer/BritBox
The longest running sci-fi TV series of all-time, Doctor Who transcends generations, and its legacy has been felt across the genre for decades.
It might not have been as strong in recent seasons to some, but Doctor Who still draws in plenty of punters. There’s always a fervour ahead of a new incarnation being announced too and, with so many Doctors by this point, fans of the show have their own favourite.
Watch on iPlayer here and classic episodes on BritBox here
For All Mankind, Apple TV+
One of Apple TV+’s first offerings remains one of its strongest. For All Mankind, while set on Earth, offers an alternate take on the 1960s space race, and imagines a world where the Soviet Union beat the United States to landing on the moon first and the subsequent fallout from America’s defeat.
Co-created by Ronald D. Moore, the visionary screenwriter and producer behind Star Trek: The Next Generation and Battlestar Galactica, you know your sci-fi needs are in safe hands here.
Watch here
Star Trek: Picard, Amazon Prime Video
Sir Patrick Stewart returns to his iconic Starfleet role in this Amazon Prime show. Set 20 years after the events of Star Trek: Nemesis, the series finds ex-USS Enterprise captain Jean-Luc Picard struggling to overcome a friend’s death while mourning the destruction of the planet Romelus.
Though slightly slower paced in its build-up than other Star Trek serials, Picard tackles its themes with finesse and leads the legendary franchise into a new frontier.
Watch here
Rick and Morty, Netflix/All4
If animated sci-fi comedy is your thing, Rick and Morty should be your go-to choice. The Back to the Future-inspired adult animation draws plenty of influence from The Simpsons, Doctor Who, and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, and its humour, creativity, and charming characters make it a must-watch.
Watch seasons 1-3 on Netflix here and season 4 on All4 here. New episodes air on Thursdays at 1oPM on E4
Stranger Things, Netflix
If you haven’t seen the cultural phenomenon that is Stranger Things, you’re missing out on a hit Netflix show that combines sci-fi, horror, and drama in equal measure.
Set in the fictional Indiana town of Hawkins, Stranger Things is an ode to 1980s movies like E.T, The Goonies, and The Thing, as well as Steven King’s novels.
Watch here
Tales From the Loop, Amazon Prime Video
TV shows aren’t usually inspired by digital paintings, but Tales from the Loop is. Based on the viral artwork by Swedish artist Simon Stalenhag, this Amazon Prime show may seem like a bit of a downer, but hope and optimism run beneath its scientific surface.
The series follows the townsfolk of Mercer, Ohio, and how their lives are affected by The Loop – a machine built to examine the mysteries of the universe.
Watch here
The Mandalorian, Disney+
Jon Favreau’s space Western, set in the Star Wars universe, has earned rave reviews since launching on Disney+. Set between the events of episodes VI and VII, The Mandalorian follows the titular bounty hunter’s attempts to keep precious cargo out of the hands of other mercenaries.
Watch here
Upload, Amazon Prime Video
The latest creation from Greg Daniels (The Office, Parks and Recreation) follows Nathan (Robbie Amell), a computer programmer who has his consciousness uploaded to a digital afterlife after a seemingly fatal car crash.
The show’s exploration of how technology and consumerism impact our lives is thematically on point, and provides important philosophical questions. Its humour is typically sharp and intelligent too, and there are plenty of emotional beats to tug at the heartstrings.
Watch here
Westworld, Amazon Prime Video
More dystopia than utopia but, like The Mandalorian, Westworld draws heavily from Westerns as much as sci-fi. It’s set in a technologically-advanced Wild West-themed amusement park and, if its name sounds familiar, that’s because it’s based on the 1973 film of the same name.
Westworld’s human guests carry out their wildest fantasies without fear of retaliation from its android “hosts” but, after a new software update causes some to become sentient, things inevitably turn sour.
Watch on Sky Box Sets or on Now TV here


inews--2020-05-20--Are menthol filters banned? UK menthol cigarette ban rules explained - and how filter tips are affec

Are menthol filters banned? UK menthol cigarette ban rules explained - and how filter tips are affected

Are menthol filters banned ?
UK menthol cigarette ban rules explained - and how filter tips are affected Menthol filters are not being banned , but it will be illegal to sell them packaged with tobacco or cigarettes From Wednesday 20 May the sale of menthol cigarettes will be illegal in the UK .
The law change was announced last month , and comes as part of new EU Tobacco Product Directive laws .
It is hoped the moved will help deter younger people from taking up smoking .
Menthol filters are not being banned , but it will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or cigarettes .
However it will still be legal to purchase menthol filters and hand-rolling tobacco if they are packaged separately .
What exactly has been banned ?
The ban makes it illegal to both manufacture and sell menthol cigarettes , as well as capsule , click on , click and roll , crushball and dual menthol cigarettes .
It is through menthol cigarettes encourage younger people to smoke ( Photo : Getty ) There is no sell through period , which means retailers must have sold any remaining stock of menthol cigarettes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s exit from the European Union does not impact the introduction of the menthol ban .
Retailers are still allowed to sell cigarettes described as `` green '' or with similar names to a previous menthol product as long as the cigarettes themselves do not contain any menthol .
If there is any confusion about which cigarettes products may or may not contain menthol , retailers should ask their tobacco supplier .
Why have menthol cigarettes been banned ?
There are concerns that menthol cigarettes encourage both younger smokers and new smokers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make it easier to inhale .
Some consider them to be healthier , but there is no evidence to suggest this is the case .
Before 20 May it was already illegal to sell menthol cigarettes in packs of more than 20 , but they are now banned altogether .

From Wednesday 20 May the sale of menthol cigarettes was made illegal in the UK.
The law change was announced last month, and comes as part of new EU Tobacco Product Directive laws.
Skinny cigarettes are also being outlawed.
It is hoped the moved will help deter younger people from taking up smoking.
Are menthol filters being banned?
Menthol filters are not being banned, but it will be illegal to sell them packaged with tobacco or cigarettes.
However it will still be legal to purchase menthol filters and hand-rolling tobacco if they are packaged separately.
What exactly has been banned?
The ban makes it illegal to both manufacture and sell menthol cigarettes, as well as capsule, click on, click and roll, crushball and dual menthol cigarettes.
The ban does not apply to heated tobacco products or e-cigarette products.
There is no sell through period, which means retailers must have sold any remaining stock of menthol cigarettes by 20 May 2020.
The UK’s exit from the European Union does not impact the introduction of the menthol ban.
Retailers are still allowed to sell cigarettes described as “green” or with similar names to a previous menthol product as long as the cigarettes themselves do not contain any menthol.
If there is any confusion about which cigarettes products may or may not contain menthol, retailers should ask their tobacco supplier.
Why have menthol cigarettes been banned?
There are concerns that menthol cigarettes encourage both younger smokers and new smokers, as they relax the airwaves and make it easier to inhale.
Some consider them to be healthier, but there is no evidence to suggest this is the case.
Before 20 May it was already illegal to sell menthol cigarettes in packs of more than 20, but they are now banned altogether.
It follows a four-year rolling project aimed at tightening the regulations on the types of tobacco and other cigarette products.
The move comes as part of long-term ambitions for parts of the UK to be smoke-free by 2030.


inews--2020-05-20--Oil price slump pushes UK inflation down to lowest level in almost four years

Oil price slump pushes UK inflation down to lowest level in almost four years The Office for National Statistics said the UK inflation rate fell dramatically to 0.8 per cent last month from 1.5 per cent in March Drastic falls in the price of oil and petrol , plus lower energy bills , have caused inflation to almost halve in April as the economic impact of Boris Johnson ’ s UK lockdown takes effect .
The Office for National Statistics said this morning that the UK inflation rate fell dramatically to 0.8 per cent last month from 1.5 per cent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost four years .
Slumping petrol and diesel prices were the main drivers in that fall but a slide in the cost of clothing and footwear was another significant drag on the inflation rate .
Laura Suter , personal finance analyst at investment platform AJ Bell , said : “ Oil prices have dragged inflation lower again , as the price of the black stuff plummeted and petrol forecourts stood empty during lockdown .
The drop in oil saw petrol prices fall to a four-year low , with petrol down 10.4p a litre.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of clothing and footwear was another contributor to drag the rate down , as people aren ’ t buying more clothes to sit in the house during lockdown , meaning prices have fallen .
There is already talk of large sales on the high-street when shops can re-open in order to get rid of stock and draw customers back in , so we could well see this trend continue.
” The fall comes as Marks and Spencer this morning reported a 21.2 per cent slump in profits after a rise in sales within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough to outweigh a collapse in revenues at its clothing unit .
The company 's full-year grocery sales rose 1.9 per cent , but its clothing and home struggled , with revenues down 6.2 per cent .
Marks and Spencer said : `` The Covid-19 crisis started to have an impact on the business in the first week of March .
Clothing sales at the low point dropped to 16 per cent of their level a year ago .
Without the resilience of the combined food and clothing business model , and extraordinary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the business would have been even more profound . ''
The ONS said the inflation readings were likely to be volatile because the coronavirus shutdown has kept its price-checkers from getting prices on more than a fifth of goods and services .
It said this morning : “ Since November 2018 , the largest upward contribution to the CPI inflation rate has come from housing and household services .
However , reductions to household utility prices in April 2020 saw the group ’ s contribution to the headline rate fall to 0.16 percentage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ March 2020 .

Drastic falls in the price of oil and petrol, plus lower energy bills, have caused inflation to almost halve in April as the economic impact of Boris Johnson’s UK lockdown takes effect.
The Office for National Statistics said this morning that the UK inflation rate fell dramatically to 0.8 per cent last month from 1.5 per cent in March, the lowest rate in almost four years.
Slumping petrol and diesel prices were the main drivers in that fall but a slide in the cost of clothing and footwear was another significant drag on the inflation rate.
Laura Suter, personal finance analyst at investment platform AJ Bell, said: “Oil prices have dragged inflation lower again, as the price of the black stuff plummeted and petrol forecourts stood empty during lockdown. The drop in oil saw petrol prices fall to a four-year low, with petrol down 10.4p a litre.”
Slide in clothing sales
She added: “The cost of clothing and footwear was another contributor to drag the rate down, as people aren’t buying more clothes to sit in the house during lockdown, meaning prices have fallen. There is already talk of large sales on the high-street when shops can re-open in order to get rid of stock and draw customers back in, so we could well see this trend continue.”
The fall comes as Marks and Spencer this morning reported a 21.2 per cent slump in profits after a rise in sales within the retailer’s food arm was not enough to outweigh a collapse in revenues at its clothing unit. The company’s full-year grocery sales rose 1.9 per cent, but its clothing and home struggled, with revenues down 6.2 per cent.
Marks and Spencer said: “The Covid-19 crisis started to have an impact on the business in the first week of March. Clothing sales at the low point dropped to 16 per cent of their level a year ago. Without the resilience of the combined food and clothing business model, and extraordinary loyalty of colleagues, the impact on the business would have been even more profound.”
Lowest contribution
The ONS said the inflation readings were likely to be volatile because the coronavirus shutdown has kept its price-checkers from getting prices on more than a fifth of goods and services.
It said this morning: “Since November 2018, the largest upward contribution to the CPI inflation rate has come from housing and household services. However, reductions to household utility prices in April 2020 saw the group’s contribution to the headline rate fall to 0.16 percentage points, from 0.51 percentage points in March 2020.
“This is the lowest contribution the group has made to the headline CPI rate since November 2010.”


inews--2020-05-20--Coronavirus symptoms explaine: Why the UK Covid-19 advice is different to the WHO, and all the sympt

Coronavirus symptoms explaine: Why the UK Covid-19 advice is different to the WHO, and all the symptoms we know about

Coronavirus symptoms explaine : Why the UK Covid-19 advice is different to the WHO , and all the symptoms we know about The loss of smell or taste was added to the UK 's list of symptoms this week , following calls from doctors Most people will have scrutinised the list of official Covid-19 symptoms more than once by now , anxiously trying to work out if they have indeed had the virus or not .
The NHS changed guidance on Monday to include loss of taste and smell ( Photo : Getty ) The NHS states the main symptoms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , meaning the person feels hot to touch on their chest or back ; a new continuous cough , meaning coughing a lot for more than an hour or three coughing episodes in 24 hours ; and - the recently added - loss or change to sense of smell or taste .
Most people with Covid-19 will have at least one of these symptoms , it says .
The advice for people who develop one or more symptom is to contact NHS 111 , and for the person to self-isolate for seven days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the number of symptoms that are not on the official list that people have reported experiencing when suffering from the virus , many of which crop up numerous times .
Loss of taste or smell had been circulating as a potential symptom for up to a month before it was added to the list .
At the beginning of April , they found that of those reporting one or more symptoms of coronavirus to the Covid Symptom Tracker app : 53 per cent said they had fatigue or tiredness , 29 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cent shortness of breath , 18 per cent a loss of sense of smell or taste , and 10.5 per cent suffered from fever .
Researchers have since said conditions such as tiredness , stomach pain or diarrhoea could be included as Covid-19 symptoms .
They also found that found that people with a positive test result were three times more likely to report a loss of smell and taste as a symptom than those who went on to test negative .
The WHO said that while the most common symptoms are a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less common ones are : aches and pains , a sore throat , diarrhoea , conjunctivitis , headaches , loss of taste or smell , a rash on the skin , or discolouration of fingers or toes .
If the WHO is including a range of symptoms on its official list of Covid-19 identifiers , it begs the question why the UK is not adding more .
Health officials have said symptoms are added when enough evidence is provided for them .
`` Conditions other than Covid-19 may cause these of course , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ runs the risk of missing people who have the virus and may be infectious . ''
England 's deputy chief medical officer , Prof Jonathan Van-Tam has said it was important to update advice at the right time , and `` when we think it 's going to make a difference moving forwards to how we pick up cases '' .
But Professor Tim Spectre , head of the department of genetic epidemiology and leader of the Covid symptom study app at KCL has criticised the current approach .
He blamed Public Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strategy , saying tens of thousands of cases are being missed as a result .

Most people will have scrutinised the list of official Covid-19 symptoms more than once by now, anxiously trying to work out if they have indeed had the virus or not.
Current symptoms
The NHS states the main symptoms of coronavirus are: a high temperature, meaning the person feels hot to touch on their chest or back; a new continuous cough, meaning coughing a lot for more than an hour or three coughing episodes in 24 hours; and – the recently added – loss or change to sense of smell or taste.
Most people with Covid-19 will have at least one of these symptoms, it says. The advice for people who develop one or more symptom is to contact NHS 111, and for the person to self-isolate for seven days.
Other reported symptoms
One of the issues with Covid-19 is the number of symptoms that are not on the official list that people have reported experiencing when suffering from the virus, many of which crop up numerous times. Loss of taste or smell had been circulating as a potential symptom for up to a month before it was added to the list.
Researchers at King’s College London (KCL) gathered symptoms from more than 1.5m people in the UK through an app, from people who believed they might have coronavirus.
At the beginning of April, they found that of those reporting one or more symptoms of coronavirus to the Covid Symptom Tracker app: 53 per cent said they had fatigue or tiredness, 29 per cent a persistent cough, 28 per cent shortness of breath, 18 per cent a loss of sense of smell or taste, and 10.5 per cent suffered from fever.
Researchers have since said conditions such as tiredness, stomach pain or diarrhoea could be included as Covid-19 symptoms. They also found that found that people with a positive test result were three times more likely to report a loss of smell and taste as a symptom than those who went on to test negative.
Moreover, the World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged the wider spectrum of symptoms, including more on its official list than the NHS.
The WHO said that while the most common symptoms are a fever, dry cough and tiredness, less common ones are: aches and pains, a sore throat, diarrhoea, conjunctivitis, headaches, loss of taste or smell, a rash on the skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes.
It added that serious symptoms are: difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, and loss of speech or movement.
Conflicting advice
If the WHO is including a range of symptoms on its official list of Covid-19 identifiers, it begs the question why the UK is not adding more. Health officials have said symptoms are added when enough evidence is provided for them.
Dr Nick Hopkinson, a reader in respiratory medicine from Imperial College London, said the reason many reported symptoms are not listed in the UK is that the virus presents differently for people.
He said the KCL app “identifies 14 symptoms that are linked to Covid-19: abdominal pain, chest pain, delirium, diarrhoea, fatigue, fever, headache, hoarse voice, loss of smell, persistent cough, shortness of breath, skipped meals, sore throat, unusual muscle pains”.
“Conditions other than Covid-19 may cause these of course, but a testing strategy that ignores them runs the risk of missing people who have the virus and may be infectious.”
One thing that is clear however, is that quitting smoking has a positive impact on the risk of getting the illness, he added.
England’s deputy chief medical officer, Prof Jonathan Van-Tam has said it was important to update advice at the right time, and “when we think it’s going to make a difference moving forwards to how we pick up cases”.
But Professor Tim Spectre, head of the department of genetic epidemiology and leader of the Covid symptom study app at KCL has criticised the current approach. He blamed Public Health England (PHE) and the wider strategy, saying tens of thousands of cases are being missed as a result.
Downing Street said the UK’s chief medical officers are continually reviewing symptoms of the virus based on advice from experts, and that updates had been made because of adequate evidence.
“They are now confident that encouraging self-isolation with a loss of sense of smell or taste will pick up slightly more cases and help to further control the spread of the virus,” the Prime Minister’s official spokesman said.


inews--2020-05-20--Coronavirus shielding advice: Who has received an NHS letter, the Government guidance explained and

Coronavirus shielding advice: Who has received an NHS letter, the Government guidance explained and how long it will last

Coronavirus shielding advice : Who has received an NHS letter , the Government guidance explained and how long it will last The Government has said its shielding initiative is to protect vulnerable people from coronavirus Who is in the shielding group ?
How will I know if I 'm in the group ?
What shall I do if I 'm in the group ?
The main thing to remember if you are clinically extremely vulnerable is to stay at home at all times - you can go in your garden - and to avoid any face-to-face contact .
These measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Can I see my family ?
How long will shielding last ?
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said : `` The shielding is not something that we do lightly because we understand the very significant impact it has on those concerned and their families , but it is necessary in a pandemic like this . ''
She told a Royal Society of Medicine webinar on Covid-19 : `` It may be that the population who we advise to shield are slightly different to the ones who we 're currently asking to shield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What if I do n't want to shield ?

From Monday, people in England and Wales who have been “shielding” during the coronavirus lockdown are able to leave their home to spend time with their loved ones outdoors.
This marks a significant change from the previous guidance, which advised people who are deemed to be clinically extremely vulnerable to stay at home at all times.
People have been placed in the shielding group because their medical condition puts them at greatest risk of severe illness from coronavirus, and so they need to take precautions beyond standard social distancing measures.
Who is in the shielding group?
People in the shielding group may have had a solid organ transplant, or they may have a specific cancer and be undergoing treatment.
If you have a severe respiratory condition, such as cystic fibrosis, a rare disease that significantly increases the risk of infections or if you are on immunosuppression therapies, you are likely to be in the shielding group.
Pregnant women with significant heart disease are also in the group.
You can be in the shielding group regardless of your age.
More detail is available on the Government’s website
How will I know if I’m in the group?
It is believed that around 2.5 million people in the UK are in the group.
The NHS in England has contacted people who are considered to be clinically extremely vulnerable through a letter, with devolved nations also contacting affected people. Some may have been told by their GP.
If you think you should be in the group but have not received a letter, contact your GP or hospital clinician.
What shall I do if I’m in the group?
Initially, people who are clinically extremely vulnerable were told to stay at home at all times and to avoid any face-to-face contact to protect themselves from Covid-19.
But the Government had updated its guidance and around two million people who are shielding in England can leave their home to spend time with other people outside.
In Wales, people in the shielding group can carry out unlimited exercise outdoors and meet people from another household. There has been no change in guidance for the group in Scotland while an update is expected for people in Northern Ireland later this week.
People in the shielding group should continue to follow the guidance on good hand hygiene.
More information on for people who are shielding is available on the NHS website
What is the guidance for leaving home?
People in the shielding group who choose to leave home should be careful and strictly stick to social distancing rules, such as keeping two metres away from others.
The Government continues to strongly advise people in England to stay at home as much as possible and keep outdoor visits to a minimum, such as once a day.
“If you choose to spend time outdoors, this can be with members of your own household. If you live alone, you can spend time outdoors with one person from another household. Ideally, this should be the same person each time. If you do go out, you should take extra care to minimise contact with others by keeping 2 metres apart,” says the updated guidance.
People should avoid gatherings and contact with anyone displaying symptoms of coronavirus.
In Wales, there are two new updates. Outdoor exercise is unlimited for people in the shielding group as long as they follow social distancing rules, and they can meet people from another household. However they should not enter another person’s house or share food with them.
The guidance has changed after the Government said the risk of Covid-19 transmission was substantially lower compared to when lockdown was first introduced.
What if I don’t want to leave home?
Of course people in the shielding group who do not feel comfortable with the updated guidance can continue to stay at home at all times and avoid contact with others.
Can I get a coronavirus test?
If you develop symptoms of Covid-19, use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service or call NHS 111 as soon as you can. Call 999 if you’re extremely ill.
You can ask for a coronavirus test online to establish whether you have the virus.
How long will shielding last?
Initially, people were asked to stay at home for 12 weeks.
This has been extended and now people in England should shield until at least 30 June.
For people in Wales, shielding will last until 15 June at least. In Scotland, the advice is in place until at least 18 June.
Those in Northern Ireland should shield for at least 12 weeks from when they receive a letter.
The devolved nations will regularly review the guidance.
What if I don’t want to shield?
The Government says that it is up to individuals if they decide to shield.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock previously said in the House of Commons: “The shielding programme is there for the protection of the shielded.
“And so if somebody who is being shielded would prefer to do things differently, so long as it is within the broader social distancing guidelines, then that is not clinically recommended but of course we understand why that might be the case.
“Particularly people coming to the end of their life may want to consider ensuring that they enjoy their last few weeks and months as much as they can.
“And a proportionate approach is required here and one that is guided by the individual clinical circumstances of that person,” he added.


inews--2020-05-20--How to make a Facebook avatar: Create emoji and stickers for Messenger and Facebook comments

How to make a Facebook avatar : Create emoji and stickers for Messenger and Facebook comments Your loved ones can now see your face during lockdown with Facebook 's new avatar feature So far the feature has been a hit with users , who can now express themselves in a more personal way , and outside the limited confines of the four generic reaction buttons .
Not too different from the Bitmoji feature found on Snapchat , Facebook allows its users to use the avatar when making comments , as well as in Facebook stories and in conversations in its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t yet had a chance to create your own avatar , follow the below steps and , as Dr Dre and NWA said in 1988 , “ express yourself ” .
Open up the Facebook app on your smartphone ( The feature works for both iOS or Android ) .
Now tap on the icon displaying three horizontal lines , found in the bottom-right hand corner of your screen .
You will now be given a wide selection of physical features to choose from .
These categories include hairstyle length and colour , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , eye makeup , lip shape and colour , eyebrow shape , nose shape , facial hair , body shape , and finally an outfit choice .
Make your way through each section , customising your avatar to best represent you ( or however you wish ) .
As soon as you have completed the avatar-making process , you can tap on the arrow icon in the top right corner to temporarily set it as your profile picture or to share it to your Facebook feed .
If you get tired of your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other feature , all you need to do is simply click on the pencil icon in the top right corner .
If you want to use your avatar as part of a comment on a post , you can do so by tapping the smiley face icon ( found next to the gif icon ) , and simply select the avatar icon found at the bottom of the screen .
The feature first appeared in June 2019 in Australia as part of a trial , before making its way to Europe in April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only gained access to the feature this week .
Fidji Simo , the head of Facebook 's app , said in a post , `` So much of our interactions these days are taking place online , which is why it 's more important than ever to be able to express yourself personally on Facebook .

Facebook has released a new feature allowing users to create online avatars of themselves.
So far the launch has been a hit with users, who can now express themselves in a more personal way, and outside the limited confines of the four generic reaction buttons.
Not too different from the Bitmoji feature found on Snapchat, Facebook allows its users to use the avatar when making comments, as well as in Facebook stories and in conversations in its Messenger app.
How do I make a Facebook avatar?
If you haven’t yet had a chance to create your own avatar, follow the below steps and, as Dr Dre and NWA said in 1988, “express yourself”.
Step 1:
Open up the Facebook app on your smartphone (The feature works for both iOS or Android). Now tap on the icon displaying three horizontal lines, found in the bottom-right hand corner of your screen.
Step 2:
Scroll down and click “See More.”
Step 3:
Click on “Avatars.”
Step 4:
Tap “Next” followed by “Get Started.”
Step 5:
Select a skin tone that best fits your own. Then hit “Next.”
Step 6:
You will now be given a wide selection of physical features to choose from. These categories include hairstyle length and colour, face shape, eye shape and colour, eye makeup, lip shape and colour, eyebrow shape, nose shape, facial hair, body shape, and finally an outfit choice. Make your way through each section, customising your avatar to best represent you (or however you wish).
Step 7:
Tap the tick in the top right corner of the page, and your avatar will save itself.
Step 8:
When it appears, hit the blue button labelled “Next” and you will see your finished avatar.
Step 9:
Tap “Done.”
As soon as you have completed the avatar-making process, you can tap on the arrow icon in the top right corner to temporarily set it as your profile picture or to share it to your Facebook feed.
Tap on the smiling square icon, found below the arrow icon, in order to check out the variety of Avatar stickers.
If you get tired of your avatar’s outfit, or any other feature, all you need to do is simply click on the pencil icon in the top right corner.
If you want to use your avatar as part of a comment on a post, you can do so by tapping the smiley face icon (found next to the gif icon), and simply select the avatar icon found at the bottom of the screen.
Launched in June
The feature first appeared in June 2019 in Australia as part of a trial, before making its way to Europe in April this year. Users in the US only gained access to the feature this week.
Fidji Simo, the head of Facebook’s app, said in a post, “So much of our interactions these days are taking place online, which is why it’s more important than ever to be able to express yourself personally on Facebook.
“With so many emotions and expressions to choose from, avatars let you to react and engage more authentically with family and friends across the app.”


inews--2020-05-20--When will swimming pools reopen? Latest UK coronavirus lockdown news as pools remain closed

When will swimming pools reopen ?
Latest UK coronavirus lockdown news as pools remain closed Latest news on UK coronavirus lockdown rules and when swimming pools could reopen - with pools staying temporarily closed .
The UK currently remains under lockdown , but many are now wondering when shops , hairdressers and gyms could begin to reopen again , after restrictions were first put in place on 23 March ( Photo : Shutterstock ) The UK currently remains under lockdown , but with Boris Johnson has revealing a `` conditional plan '' to reopen society , many are now wondering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ begin to reopen again .
If you ’ re a keen swimmer and eager to get back in your local pool , when is it likely to be open again ?
Although this will now be unlimited , Sturgeon said there must be “ no sunbathing , picnics or barbecues ” , which is in contrast to Johnson ’ s new advice .
The First Minister of Wales , Mark Drakeford , said that Wales would allow more frequent exercise and the opening of garden centres , but that said schools will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s likely that when pools do reopen , fewer swimmers will be allowed in at a once - and for less time .
Virgin Active said that it will inform customers when it will reopen clubs `` once it is safe to do so based on government advice '' .
The government is currently planning ahead for the “ roadmap ” out of lockdown , which Boris Johnson is expected to reveal on Sunday 10 May .
However , there has been confirmation yet as to when swimming pools will be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that when pools do reopen , fewer swimmers will be allowed in at once - and for less time .
Virgin Active said that they will inform customers when clubs are to reopen , `` once it is safe to do so based on government advice '' .
What safety measures will be put into place ?
England ’ s national governing body Swim England has provided initial guidance to the government on how to reopen more than 4,000 of the country ’ s swimming pools , and will now start developing more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ swim schools .
This will be based on the latest scientific guidance on the measures needed to ensure the safe use of facilities following the coronavirus lockdown .
Mr Lamburn said : “ The science and understanding of Covid-19 in the swimming pool environment is evolving every day and we are continuing to monitor and support research in this area in cooperation with international partners .
“ We will be developing our guidance in line with scientific research and alongside the information from the Government on the national exit of lockdown.
” Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to three weeks ’ notice for the industry to get pools ready to be used again .
However , they are endeavouring to support the government whatever the time frame is , to ensure facilities are both safe and ready for swimmers to return to the pool .

Regular swimmers have been among those most affected by the coronavirus lockdown. Pools have been closed for almost four months, and did not reopen as hoped on 4 July, when pubs and restaurants returned.
However, both indoor and outdoor pools can now reopen, as well as gyms and leisure centres.
Here is everything you need to know.
When will indoor pools reopen?
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden confirmed that indoor pools, gyms and leisure centres could open their doors again from Saturday 25 July.
He said the move would help get the country “match-fit to defeat the virus” amid growing fears of inactivity among the population due to social distancing restrictions.
“The reopening of gyms is the news millions across the country have been waiting for with many people desperate to jump on a spinning bike or dive into a pool,” he said when he announced the move.
“Our comprehensive guidance will ensure gyms, pools and leisure centres have the support they need to reopen safely for their customers and staff.”
When will outdoor pools and lidos reopen?
Outdoor pools and lidos opened on 11 July, along with grassroots outdoor sports.
This started with cricket, and was followed by other sports, such as football and basketball.
What will pools be like now they have reopened?
Under guidelines released by Swim England, the national governing body for swimming, swimmers are now urged to shower at home, arrive wearing their swimwear under their clothes and bring toys and floats with them.
This change, called “beach style turn up and swim”, is designed to make sure swimmers spend less time in the changing room and to ensure that showers are available post-swim.
The number of lanes in a pool will be cut in half, with swimmers told to maintain a safe distance from others at all times, and diving will come with extra precautions because it “can result in injury that requires ambulance care”.
Jane Nickerson, chief executive of Swim England, told The Sunday Times: “In the early days, it may be that you are encouraged not to use the changing rooms.
“What we’re suggesting is going ‘beach-ready’. Some pools might ask you just to put on a towelling robe and – let’s hope you’re not on a bus, you’re in a car – travel home like that.”
She added: “Kids playing around – I don’t think we’ll be seeing that for some time because of the social distancing. It doesn’t mean that we couldn’t do lessons, or some club and community activity – as long as they are programmed and maintaining a distance.”
Swimmers will made made to maintain social distancing rules, with one person per three-square-metre area.
The government did not confirm exactly when pools would be allowed to reopen under its initial road map out of lockdown published in May.
However, it was thought that they would stay closed until at least 4 July, the date earmarked as the earliest possible time for phase three of the lockdown exit plan (including the opening of hospitality businesses) could begin.
Virgin Active had previously said simply that it would inform customers when it will reopen clubs “once it is safe to do so based on government advice”.
‘The science is evolving every day’
Richard Lamburn, Swim England Head of Facilities, had previously explained how the organisation had been in discussions with Government departments regarding the necessary guidance.
Mr Lamburn said: “The science and understanding of Covid-19 in the swimming pool environment is evolving every day and we are continuing to monitor and support research in this area in cooperation with international partners.
“We will be developing our guidance in line with scientific research and alongside the information from the Government on the national exit of lockdown.”
Mr Lamburn said Swim England would ideally like up to three weeks’ notice for the industry to get pools ready to be used again.
However, they are endeavouring to support the government whatever the time frame is, to ensure facilities are both safe and ready for swimmers to return to the pool.
“We have been in regular communication with key stakeholders regarding the impact on facilities and have also been sharing knowledge and information with Sport England, Swim Ireland, Scottish Swimming and Swim Wales,” adds Mr Lamburn.
“A lot of pools have never closed before so we’ve been providing the guidance and support needed to local authorities and operators to ensure they were safely shut down and maintained.”


inews--2020-05-20--Starbucks open near me: Full list of 150 UK branches reopened for takeaway and delivery - and when o

Starbucks open near me: Full list of 150 UK branches reopened for takeaway and delivery - and when others will be opening

Starbucks open near me : Full list of 150 UK branches reopened for takeaway and delivery - and when others will be opening Fast food chains and coffee shops are beginning to tentatively reopen their doors to the public for takeaway services So whether it 's a cappuccino , caramel macchiato or simply an Americano that you 're missing , this is everything you need to know about Starbucks reopening their stores .
Starbucks revealed that from Thursday 14 May , some of its stores will be included in a phased reopening process .
The reopened venues will be operating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only .
“ The safety of everyone is our greatest priority so our stores may look a little different to normal , ” the company ’ s website explains .
Starbucks is opening 15 per cent of its UK sites , which is around 150 stores .
You can check if your local store is opened by using the Starbucks store locator here .
The opening time for stores will also be different to the usual opening times they operated pre-lockdown , so you ’ ll need to check your local branches ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Alex Rayner , Starbucks UK general manager , it was revealed that the “ goal is to be fully open by the end of June ” .
What safety measures will be in place ?
The stores included in the reopening process will be implementing these changes : The stores will be offering a “ near complete beverage menu ” , with food also available to buy , but “ with a slightly more restricted menu , focused more on [ the ] most popular items ” .
Thank you to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Starbucks revealed that NHS staff will be able to get coffee for free at their newly opened stores .
The Tweet states : “ To show thanks to our NHS we are offering any tall drink for free in our stores , or a free hot beverage that can be claimed at self service locations in petrol stations .
Just show your NHS badge to our staff in store .
”

So whether it’s a cappuccino, caramel macchiato or simply an Americano that you’re missing, this is everything you need to know about Starbucks reopening their stores.
Which stores are reopening?
Starbucks revealed that from Thursday 14 May, some of its stores will be included in a phased reopening process.
The reopened venues will be operating on a Drive Thru and takeaway basis only.
“The safety of everyone is our greatest priority so our stores may look a little different to normal,” the company’s website explains.
Starbucks is opening 15 per cent of its UK sites, which is around 150 stores.
You can check if your local store is opened by using the Starbucks store locator here.
The opening time for stores will also be different to the usual opening times they operated pre-lockdown, so you’ll need to check your local branches’ opening times.
In a letter shared by Alex Rayner, Starbucks UK general manager, it was revealed that the “goal is to be fully open by the end of June”.
What safety measures will be in place?
The stores included in the reopening process will be implementing these changes:
Social distancing: only a limited number of customers will be allowed in a store at one time, and markers will be added to help customers maintain the two-metre rule
Delivery: for stores that are available via delivery systems like Ubereats, delivery options will also be available for a contactless coffee drop off
Contactless payment only: cash won’t be accepted at these stores, instead only payment via the Starbucks UK app, contactless cards or mobile payments will be permitted
Cups and cutlery: only paper cups will be used, so no sit in mugs or travel mugs will be used, and take away cutlery will be provided instead of metal knives, forks and spoons
Plexiglass: plexiglass screens will be installed across all the stores to protect both baristas and customers
No condiments: the condiment bars will be kept behind the counter now, so you’ll need to ask a barista for the likes of sugar packets and stirrers
The stores will be offering a “near complete beverage menu”, with food also available to buy, but “with a slightly more restricted menu, focused more on [the] most popular items”.
Thank you to the NHS
Tweeting its official UK Twitter account, Starbucks revealed that NHS staff will be able to get coffee for free at their newly opened stores.
The Tweet states: “To show thanks to our NHS we are offering any tall drink for free in our stores, or a free hot beverage that can be claimed at self service locations in petrol stations. Just show your NHS badge to our staff in store.”


inews--2020-05-20--Jo Brand: Let's boost our nation's mental health - join me for a virtual smoothie at the Big Lunch

Jo Brand : Let 's boost our nation 's mental health - join me for a virtual smoothie at the Big Lunch If your parents are n't Zoom converts , you can still grab a handful of sausage and mash and give them a ring A recent survey by the Eden Project revealed that more than 40 per cent of the population feel lockdown measures have had a negative impact on their mental health .
This is incredibly alarming when it is illustrated by the statistic that one in three of those affected has not spoken to someone about their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the potential to harm people ’ s emotional wellbeing .
As a nation we have been in isolation which can cause loneliness , anxiety and stress .
What is worrying is that people don ’ t seem to be talking about how they feel .
When lockdown measures are relaxed , these anxieties won ’ t magically go away .
This pandemic could have a new long lasting adverse effect on the nation ’ s mental health .
The jovial new term Corona-coaster is used to describe someone that is contented with lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next .
I think many of us could identify with that , but this jokey phrase hides a worrying trend of people experiencing poor mental health issues , yet hardly even being aware of it .
I 'll certainly be tucking in ( Photo : The Big Lunch ) Interestingly it is the nation ’ s young people that appear to have been affected the most .
According to the survey , under 24s are most likely to feel lonely or depressed and reported the most cases of insomnia .
Almost one in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It may be that young people are more open about their feelings and that the older generation feel they just need to get on with it .
I ’ m not sure .
However , I know how important it is to address these feelings in all age groups .
Some of our usual support networks aren ’ t available at the moment .
We are no longer meeting friends for a chat and a coffee ; there ’ s been no offloading to a colleague over the photocopier at work or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Nags Head .
These customary activities that we take for granted are so important for our emotional wellbeing and this is why it is vital we find ways to stay connected during lockdown .
Groundhog Day monotony and social isolation have been stated as the biggest factors affecting our mental health right now , so we need to do something about it .
One piece of good news that has come out of this crisis is our renewed sense of community spirit .
People are talking to their neighbours over the fence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night .
It ’ s been humbling to watch how people have supported each other in so many different ways all over the country .
This is reflected in the survey which found that over half of the population felt that people are more likely to say hello and chat during lockdown , with a heartening 70 per cent of people in the UK hoping that this newfound community spirit continues after lockdown measures are lifted .
I have been a supporter of The Big Lunch for four years now as I believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talk…especially if it ’ s over a meal .
This year it is not possible to have big street parties and group picnics , but it is more important than ever to come together still .
Even I have worked out how to use Zoom , so if I can log on and pour down a kale smoothie , anyone can .
The nation is being encouraged to take part online , on the phone and on their doorsteps across the weekend .
The survey may have shown that older people are more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important to stay connected and make sure that everyone has someone to talk to .
If you don ’ t know your Facetime from your Skype then just grab a handful of sausage and mash and pick up the phone .

A recent survey by the Eden Project revealed that more than 40 per cent of the population feel lockdown measures have had a negative impact on their mental health. This is incredibly alarming when it is illustrated by the statistic that one in three of those affected has not spoken to someone about their emotional wellbeing.
This health crisis has the potential to harm people’s emotional wellbeing. As a nation we have been in isolation which can cause loneliness, anxiety and stress. What is worrying is that people don’t seem to be talking about how they feel. When lockdown measures are relaxed, these anxieties won’t magically go away. This pandemic could have a new long lasting adverse effect on the nation’s mental health.
The jovial new term Corona-coaster is used to describe someone that is contented with lockdown one minute and unhappy with it the next. I think many of us could identify with that, but this jokey phrase hides a worrying trend of people experiencing poor mental health issues, yet hardly even being aware of it.
Interestingly it is the nation’s young people that appear to have been affected the most. According to the survey, under 24s are most likely to feel lonely or depressed and reported the most cases of insomnia. Almost one in three young people surveyed reported feeling hopeless.
It may be that young people are more open about their feelings and that the older generation feel they just need to get on with it. I’m not sure. However, I know how important it is to address these feelings in all age groups.
Some of our usual support networks aren’t available at the moment. We are no longer meeting friends for a chat and a coffee; there’s been no offloading to a colleague over the photocopier at work or letting off steam over a pint in the Nags Head. These customary activities that we take for granted are so important for our emotional wellbeing and this is why it is vital we find ways to stay connected during lockdown.
Groundhog Day monotony and social isolation have been stated as the biggest factors affecting our mental health right now, so we need to do something about it.
One piece of good news that has come out of this crisis is our renewed sense of community spirit. People are talking to their neighbours over the fence and chatting whilst clapping on a Thursday night. It’s been humbling to watch how people have supported each other in so many different ways all over the country.
This is reflected in the survey which found that over half of the population felt that people are more likely to say hello and chat during lockdown, with a heartening 70 per cent of people in the UK hoping that this newfound community spirit continues after lockdown measures are lifted.
I have been a supporter of The Big Lunch for four years now as I believe in the power of getting together to talk…especially if it’s over a meal. This year it is not possible to have big street parties and group picnics, but it is more important than ever to come together still.
This is why The Big Lunch, with the help of the National Lottery, is going virtual on June 6th and 7th.
Even I have worked out how to use Zoom, so if I can log on and pour down a kale smoothie, anyone can. The nation is being encouraged to take part online, on the phone and on their doorsteps across the weekend.
The survey may have shown that older people are more resilient, but it is still so important to stay connected and make sure that everyone has someone to talk to. If you don’t know your Facetime from your Skype then just grab a handful of sausage and mash and pick up the phone.
We’ve no idea what we are going to be doing next week, let alone next month but we’ll still be having lunch.
So let’s have lunch together…even if we’re apart.
Find out how to join in The Big ‘Virtual’ Lunch at thebiglunch.com


inews--2020-05-20--Scotland lockdown rules: Restrictions on daily life set to remain for three more months

Scotland lockdown rules : Restrictions on daily life set to remain for three more months Nicola Sturgeon says first phase of 'very gradual ' lockdown exit will not begin until next week , warning virus is 'real and present danger' The First Minister will unveil a “ route map ” setting out a four-phase approach to easing the lockdown , with the first changes not being made until next Thursday .
Progress through each of the four phases will only be assessed every three weeks , meaning that the earliest all of the restrictions might be lifted is 13 weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could also be delayed if the Covid-19 infection rate starts to creep up again , meaning it could be even longer before the resumption of many daily activities .
Nicola Sturgeon said she hoped a 'form of normality ' would soon return ( Photo : Scottish Government ) Ms Sturgeon 's announcement comes after official figures showed that the number of people dying from the disease north of the border has dropped for the third consecutive week .
While the total death toll has now climbed to 3,546 , the National Records of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of fatalities is steadily falling week on week .
However , the First Minister warned there was still a “ real and present danger ” of the virus getting out of control again and said she would be taking a “ very careful and cautious approach ” .
On Wednesday , police attended Portobello beach in Edinburgh to disperse crowds that had gathered to enjoy the Sun .
Officers spoke to some of those present , but did not issue any fines .
Speaking ahead of the publication of the route map , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the country for the “ enormous sacrifices ” they had already made .
“ For the time being the advice on staying at home except for essential purposes remains the same , but we hope to shortly be ready to start easing the lockdown restrictions and today ’ s routemap will outline how we can do that , ” she added .
“ At all stages in this process we have listened to the views of people and organisations in Scotland , and have been guided by the latest scientific advice – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Today ’ s document is based on the guidance set out by the World Health Organisation and the experience of other countries as they have eased their lockdown – as well as what we have learned about the impact of Covid-19 in Scotland .
“ This will be a very gradual process as we monitor how changing behaviour affects the infection rate and we will only be able to move toward easing more restrictions if we continue to work together to suppress the virus .
“ Protecting lives will continue to be our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confident that people across Scotland will continue to pull together in this national endeavour as we return to some kind of normality .
”

Restrictions on daily life in Scotland are set to remain in place for at least three more months under plans for a “very gradual” exit from the coronavirus lockdown published by Nicola Sturgeon.
The First Minister will unveil a “route map” setting out a four-phase approach to easing the lockdown, with the first changes not being made until next Thursday.
Progress through each of the four phases will only be assessed every three weeks, meaning that the earliest all of the restrictions might be lifted is 13 weeks from Thursday.
The move between phases could also be delayed if the Covid-19 infection rate starts to creep up again, meaning it could be even longer before the resumption of many daily activities.
The long goodbye to lockdown
Ms Sturgeon’s announcement comes after official figures showed that the number of people dying from the disease north of the border has dropped for the third consecutive week.
While the total death toll has now climbed to 3,546, the National Records of Scotland statistics also showed that the number of fatalities is steadily falling week on week.
However, the First Minister warned there was still a “real and present danger” of the virus getting out of control again and said she would be taking a “very careful and cautious approach”.
On Wednesday, police attended Portobello beach in Edinburgh to disperse crowds that had gathered to enjoy the Sun. Officers spoke to some of those present, but did not issue any fines.
Speaking ahead of the publication of the route map, the First Minister thanked people and businesses across the country for the “enormous sacrifices” they had already made.
‘Enormous sacrifices’
“For the time being the advice on staying at home except for essential purposes remains the same, but we hope to shortly be ready to start easing the lockdown restrictions and today’s routemap will outline how we can do that,” she added.
“At all stages in this process we have listened to the views of people and organisations in Scotland, and have been guided by the latest scientific advice – and that approach will continue.
“Today’s document is based on the guidance set out by the World Health Organisation and the experience of other countries as they have eased their lockdown – as well as what we have learned about the impact of Covid-19 in Scotland.
“This will be a very gradual process as we monitor how changing behaviour affects the infection rate and we will only be able to move toward easing more restrictions if we continue to work together to suppress the virus.
“Protecting lives will continue to be our number one priority – and I am confident that people across Scotland will continue to pull together in this national endeavour as we return to some kind of normality.”


inews--2020-05-20--Nature provides a ‘feel-good factor’ that lasts for months, research reveals

Nature provides a ‘ feel-good factor ’ that lasts for months , research reveals Engaging with nature in a small , simple way , every single day for 30 days can bring wellbeing benefits that last for months Spending a few minutes in nature every day can provide a mood boost that lasts for months , according to research .
The Wildlife Trusts teamed up with researchers from the University of Derby to assess the survey responses of 1,000 people who have taken part in The Wildlife Trusts ’ 30 Days Wild campaign .
The initiative challenges people to “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the month of June to connect with nature .
It can include anything from walking barefoot on grass to watching birds .
Since the challenge began in 2014 , over a million people have taken part .
Conducted over the course of five years , the survey found that spending part of each day in nature not only improves people ’ s well-being during the challenge , but that the benefits last for at least two months after the challenge is over .
“ This five-year evaluation of 30 Days Wild has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive power of simple engagement with nature , ” said Professor Miles Richardson from the University of Derby .
Participants were asked to rate their health , connection to nature , happiness and pro-nature behaviour before beginning the challenge , again at the beginning of July when the challenge had finished , and then for a third time in September , two months after the challenge had finished .
Most people - particularly those with a weak connection to nature to start off with - reported feeling happier , more connected to nature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' behaviour .
Conservation charities have been touting the power of nature to improve mental health and wellbeing throughout the lockdown , with many hoping the experience could spark a new appreciation for the environment - and a new urge to protect it .
“ Our lives have been changed by coronavirus and this is giving people a reason to reflect on our relationship with nature , the way we live our lives and how we spend our free time , ” said Dom Higgins , head of health and education at The @ @ @

Spending a few minutes in nature every day can provide a mood boost that lasts for months, according to research.
The Wildlife Trusts teamed up with researchers from the University of Derby to assess the survey responses of 1,000 people who have taken part in The Wildlife Trusts’ 30 Days Wild campaign.
The initiative challenges people to “do something wild” every single day for the month of June to connect with nature. It can include anything from walking barefoot on grass to watching birds. Since the challenge began in 2014, over a million people have taken part.
Conducted over the course of five years, the survey found that spending part of each day in nature not only improves people’s well-being during the challenge, but that the benefits last for at least two months after the challenge is over.
“This five-year evaluation of 30 Days Wild has produced remarkable results – it shows the positive power of simple engagement with nature,” said Professor Miles Richardson from the University of Derby.
Survey
Participants were asked to rate their health, connection to nature, happiness and pro-nature behaviour before beginning the challenge, again at the beginning of July when the challenge had finished, and then for a third time in September, two months after the challenge had finished.
Most people – particularly those with a weak connection to nature to start off with – reported feeling happier, more connected to nature, and more likely to display ‘pro-nature’ behaviour.
Soaring interest
Conservation charities have been touting the power of nature to improve mental health and wellbeing throughout the lockdown, with many hoping the experience could spark a new appreciation for the environment – and a new urge to protect it.
“Our lives have been changed by coronavirus and this is giving people a reason to reflect on our relationship with nature, the way we live our lives and how we spend our free time,” said Dom Higgins, head of health and education at The Wildlife Trusts.


inews--2020-05-20--Old, Alone And Stuck At Home, Channel 4, review: a poignant portrayal of the elderly in lockdown

Old , Alone And Stuck At Home , Channel 4 , review : a poignant portrayal of the elderly in lockdown Director Angie Mason allowed elderly people , often forgotten , to express their fears and frustrations with lockdown in this elegant film Old , Alone And Stuck At Home , Channel 4 , 9pm ★★★ The way that Covid-19 has ripped through care homes in the UK is one of the great tragedies – and scandals – of this epidemic .
But elderly people who are not in care homes are also vulnerable and scared .
This story has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many , it is the lockdown , rather than the virus , which is most troubling .
As Dr Sarah Jarvis , the resident doctor on Jeremy Vine ’ s BBC Radio 2 show , explained in Old , Alone And Stuck At Home , “ lockdown is particularly unfair on anybody who feels they don ’ t have much time left ” .
Suzanne , who lives alone in London , has marked her possessions for the executors ( Photo : Channel 4 ) Not only do the elderly have , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to lose , they will also be the last demographic released from lockdown .
It is a cruel irony .
We met a number of people , all over 70 , attempting to come to terms with this .
Suzanne , who lives alone in London , has terminal cancer ; she spent one afternoon sticking labels to her possessions , so the executors would know where to send them if she dies .
Peter , who lives in Northamptonshire , has dementia .
He planned to go on a cruise with his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 45th wedding anniversary .
This , inevitably , has been cancelled .
“ Outside of lockdown , I ’ ve got other things to occupy my mind , ” he said .
Now , he is more aware than ever before of the muddling tide of dementia .
This was an eloquent , quietly confident documentary that gave the elderly , so often forgotten , a chance to speak for themselves .
The director , Angie Mason , focused on just a handful of stories , which allowed time to acknowledge the mundane @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daughter in Hendon .
We watched him on the treadmill and chopping fruit with his granddaughter .
He was happy to enjoy these simple tasks but he confessed : “ I miss so many things , I miss my independence.
” Mason didn ’ t try to nudge us towards any conclusion .
This was not a call for elderly people to be given more freedom .
Instead , Old , Alone and Stuck at Home simply forced us to confront an aspect of this crisis that won ’ t make the headlines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quarter of over-65s suffer from depression .
Lockdown will exacerbate this .
Even when Covid-19 is not killing people , it is still taking away lives .

Old, Alone And Stuck At Home, Channel 4, 9pm ★★★
The way that Covid-19 has ripped through care homes in the UK is one of the great tragedies – and scandals – of this epidemic. But elderly people who are not in care homes are also vulnerable and scared. This story has been much less widely reported.
For many, it is the lockdown, rather than the virus, which is most troubling. As Dr Sarah Jarvis, the resident doctor on Jeremy Vine’s BBC Radio 2 show, explained in Old, Alone And Stuck At Home, “lockdown is particularly unfair on anybody who feels they don’t have much time left”.
Not only do the elderly have, to put it crudely, the least time to lose, they will also be the last demographic released from lockdown. It is a cruel irony.
We met a number of people, all over 70, attempting to come to terms with this. Suzanne, who lives alone in London, has terminal cancer; she spent one afternoon sticking labels to her possessions, so the executors would know where to send them if she dies. Peter, who lives in Northamptonshire, has dementia. He planned to go on a cruise with his wife, Pam, to celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary. This, inevitably, has been cancelled. “Outside of lockdown, I’ve got other things to occupy my mind,” he said. Now, he is more aware than ever before of the muddling tide of dementia.
This was an eloquent, quietly confident documentary that gave the elderly, so often forgotten, a chance to speak for themselves. The director, Angie Mason, focused on just a handful of stories, which allowed time to acknowledge the mundane. Desmond had moved in with his daughter in Hendon. We watched him on the treadmill and chopping fruit with his granddaughter. He was happy to enjoy these simple tasks but he confessed: “I miss so many things, I miss my independence.”
Mason didn’t try to nudge us towards any conclusion. This was not a call for elderly people to be given more freedom. Instead, Old, Alone and Stuck at Home simply forced us to confront an aspect of this crisis that won’t make the headlines.
Dr Jarvis pointed out that a quarter of over-65s suffer from depression. Lockdown will exacerbate this. Even when Covid-19 is not killing people, it is still taking away lives.


inews--2020-05-20--Climbing Blind, BBC4, review: courage, love and an extraordinary achievement

Jesse Dufton has about one per cent vision but , as Alastair Lee 's film showed , he refuses to stop taking risks on rock faces Climbing Blind was an agreeable film , which followed Jesse Dufton as he attempted to become the first blind man to lead a climb up the Old Man of Hoy , a 450ft sea stack in Orkney .
Because Jesse , who has just one per cent vision ( “ if I hold my hand out here , I can ’ t see my hand ” ) , is such an accomplished climber , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extraordinary phenomenon this was .
Sensibly , the film-maker Alastair Lee also documented a professional climber attempting to scale a piddling little boulder while blindfolded .
“ That ’ s ridiculous , ” was the verdict .
Climbing Blind was only partially about the adventure , though .
It was about courage and the refusal to allow your body to limit your ambitions .
It was also about love , very much not blind .
Jesse ’ s wife , Molly , guided him on his climbs from below .
“ If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , “ he ’ s more than capable of doing anything.
” It was striking how integral she was to the operation and yet how little limelight she wanted .
This was undoubtedly Jesse ’ s moment – although it would be a shame not to mention one unimprovable line from Jesse ’ s dad who , when asked if he ’ d noticed anything unusual about his son , replied : “ You used to bump into things but we just thought , well , he ’ s not looking where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reached the top , he said : “ I really hope when Molly gets up here , she ’ s going to take some awesome photos because , in 20 years or so , when they fix my eyes , I want to see that view.
” I really hope so , too .

Climbing Blind, BBC Four ★★★
Climbing Blind was an agreeable film, which followed Jesse Dufton as he attempted to become the first blind man to lead a climb up the Old Man of Hoy, a 450ft sea stack in Orkney.
Because Jesse, who has just one per cent vision (“if I hold my hand out here, I can’t see my hand”), is such an accomplished climber, it was easy to forget what an extraordinary phenomenon this was. Sensibly, the film-maker Alastair Lee also documented a professional climber attempting to scale a piddling little boulder while blindfolded. “That’s ridiculous,” was the verdict.
Climbing Blind was only partially about the adventure, though. It was about courage and the refusal to allow your body to limit your ambitions. It was also about love, very much not blind. Jesse’s wife, Molly, guided him on his climbs from below. “If you can share your eyes,” she said, “he’s more than capable of doing anything.” It was striking how integral she was to the operation and yet how little limelight she wanted.
This was undoubtedly Jesse’s moment – although it would be a shame not to mention one unimprovable line from Jesse’s dad who, when asked if he’d noticed anything unusual about his son, replied: “You used to bump into things but we just thought, well, he’s not looking where he’s going.”
After Jesse reached the top, he said: “I really hope when Molly gets up here, she’s going to take some awesome photos because, in 20 years or so, when they fix my eyes, I want to see that view.” I really hope so, too.