inews--2020-04-24--Normal People is a dazzling, intoxicating rush: the best drama of the year

Normal People is a dazzling , intoxicating rush : the best drama of the year BBC Three 's adaptation of Sally Rooney 's phenomenal 2018 novel perfectly animates this painful , uncomfortable , dizzying story of young love But the laws of the world in which their love blossoms then wilts and withers are established much sooner , in the first minutes of BBC Three ’ s dazzling adaptation of Sally Rooney ’ s 2018 novel , Normal People .
Uniformed teenagers smart at each other in a school corridor , all fragile fronts , bravado , obeying a code @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never explained .
The weight of expectation on Normal People could have been a burden .
But with Rooney co-writing six of the 12 episodes herself , it is near perfect ; the story of two students in the west of Ireland – the friendless , wealthy , clever Marianne and the popular , working-class and brilliant Connell .
It is about young people and youth , but the force of the love that unfolds between them is so desperate and true , age is of little import .
As all lovers know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by newcomers Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones – do not speak at school , but his mother cleans her house .
They talk when he drives to pick her up .
Their secret relationship is pure in a vacuum , until missteps , stubbornness and pride pull them apart .
They are drawn together again as they grow older but class still reigns : by the time they get to Trinity College in Dublin , she is understood as pretty and charismatic , he the shy outsider .
Paul Mescal is perfectly cast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ People ( Photo : Element Pictures/Enda Bowe ) The drama is elegant and sparse : long , gloomy sweeps of the Irish coast , shady corners of Marianne ’ s vast , uncomfortable mansion and claustrophobic car journeys .
There is almost always noise : the radio , the beating wind , the metronomic squeak of windscreen wipers , and twinkling pianos .
All that goes quiet when Connell and Marianne speak .
The series would be impossible to root in time , if not for the occasional glance of a text message @ @ @ @ @ @ @ narrate an emotion ( usually grief ) : early on , an anguished Connell breaks down to the opening rattles of Yazoo ’ s “ Only You ” .
Later , Frank Ocean , `` Nikes '' ; Carly Rae Jepsen , `` Too Much '' .
The gazes , too , are slow and painful .
When Marianne dances at a nightclub , she pretends not to check whether Connell is watching .
He is .
When Connell plays football , in one wordless , cinematic scene , Marianne is entranced as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when he scores a goal are the only time we see her smile when he isn ’ t watching .
`` You blush at everything , ” she says before the game , before she dares to tell him that she likes him .
“ Guess you just have one of those complexions.
” She has been watching him a long time .
Afterwards , on the bus home , their classmates jostle him in congratulations , but he sits in the empty seat next to her without a word .
It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watershed moment , but goes unacknowledged .
Their real breakthrough comes later , when Connell visits Marianne ’ s house – it is he who has the power now .
He tells her his friends don ’ t know he reads .
“ Not interested in the world around them ?
” she asks .
“ Not in the same way we would be.
” We .
Soon , they have sex for the first time .
These – many – scenes are astoundingly intimate , you watch holding your breath .
Normal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ book .
We care about the two instantly even if we know little about them beyond the urgency of their emotions – we don ’ t need to .
Those emotions are familiar enough .
The pace is feverish : time seems to speed up around Marianne and Connell when they ’ re alone , until all those unspoken rules that govern human behaviour – passion , class , haste , regret – derail them .
Before their first kiss , their eyes dart and dance .
“ I just think it would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with us , ” he tells her .
“ No one would have to know , ” she says .
And their love story begins .

Normal People, BBC Three, ★★★★★
When Connell and Marianne’s pinkies intertwine, silently, as they stand in a crowd, it is so heavy you gasp for air.
But the laws of the world in which their love blossoms then wilts and withers are established much sooner, in the first minutes of BBC Three’s dazzling adaptation of Sally Rooney’s 2018 novel, Normal People. Uniformed teenagers smart at each other in a school corridor, all fragile fronts, bravado, obeying a code and social hierarchy that is understood, never explained.
The weight of expectation on Normal People could have been a burden. But with Rooney co-writing six of the 12 episodes herself, it is near perfect; the story of two students in the west of Ireland – the friendless, wealthy, clever Marianne and the popular, working-class and brilliant Connell. It is about young people and youth, but the force of the love that unfolds between them is so desperate and true, age is of little import. As all lovers know.
Connell and Marianne – played superbly by newcomers Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones – do not speak at school, but his mother cleans her house. They talk when he drives to pick her up. Their secret relationship is pure in a vacuum, until missteps, stubbornness and pride pull them apart. They are drawn together again as they grow older but class still reigns: by the time they get to Trinity College in Dublin, she is understood as pretty and charismatic, he the shy outsider.
The drama is elegant and sparse: long, gloomy sweeps of the Irish coast, shady corners of Marianne’s vast, uncomfortable mansion and claustrophobic car journeys. There is almost always noise: the radio, the beating wind, the metronomic squeak of windscreen wipers, and twinkling pianos. All that goes quiet when Connell and Marianne speak.
The series would be impossible to root in time, if not for the occasional glance of a text message, a discussion about a nude photo, or a carefully chosen pop song to narrate an emotion (usually grief). Early on, an anguished Connell breaks down to the opening rattles of Yazoo’s “Only You”. Later, Frank Ocean, “Nikes”; Carly Rae Jepsen, “Too Much”.
The gazes, too, are slow and painful. When Marianne dances at a nightclub, she pretends not to check whether Connell is watching. He is. When Connell plays football, in one wordless, cinematic scene, Marianne is entranced as he gurns and sweats – her cheers when he scores a goal are the only time we see her smile when he isn’t watching. “You blush at everything,” she says before the game, before she dares to tell him that she likes him. “Guess you just have one of those complexions.” She has been watching him a long time.
Read More Normal People’s Paul Mescal: ‘I’m most proud of how sex is portrayed in this series’
Afterwards, on the bus home, their classmates jostle him in congratulations, but he sits in the empty seat next to her without a word. It is so public, it should be a watershed moment, but goes unacknowledged.
Their real breakthrough comes later, when Connell visits Marianne’s house – it is he who has the power now. He tells her his friends don’t know he reads. “Not interested in the world around them?” she asks. “Not in the same way we would be.” We. Soon, they have sex for the first time. These – many – scenes are astoundingly intimate, you watch holding your breath.
Normal People acutely captures the rush of the book. There, the text is mostly straightforward and unadorned, and here the speech is minimal, each of the protagonists’ inner thoughts translated easily into dialogue. We care about the two instantly even if we know little about them beyond the urgency of their emotions – we don’t need to. Those emotions are familiar enough; it is how easily we can transpose our own experiences onto Connell and Marianne that has made this story feel so universal. And it is that sense of confusing nostalgia that makes Normal People feel far more a drama to help adults look back at their own adolescence than one for adolescents themselves.
The pace is feverish: time seems to speed up around Marianne and Connell when they’re alone, until all those unspoken rules that govern human behaviour – passion, class, haste, regret – derail them. Before their first kiss, their eyes dart and dance. “I just think it would be awkward in school if anything happened with us,” he tells her. “No one would have to know,” she says. And their love story begins.
‘Normal People’ is available as a boxset on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer from Sunday. Episodes one and two are on BBC One on Monday at 9pm


inews--2020-04-24--Scientists condemn Donald Trump's dangerous claim that injecting disinfectant could cure coronavirus

Mr Trump suggested that medics should 'look into ' injecting household disinfectant even though that can lead to death ' I 'm , like , a person that has a good you-know-what' The study also showed bleach could kill the virus in saliva or respiratory fluids within five minutes and isopropyl alcohol could kill it even more quickly .
Donald Trump at the daily briefing of the coronavirus task force ( Photo : Drew Angerer/Getty Images ) '' So , supposing we hit the body with a tremendous - whether it 's ultraviolet or just very powerful light , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ White House coronavirus response co-ordinator Dr Deborah Birx , `` and I think you said that has n't been checked but you 're going to test it .
`` And then I said , supposing you brought the light inside of the body , which you can do either through the skin or in some other way .
And I think you said you 're going to test that too .
Sounds interesting .
`` And then I see the disinfectant where it knocks it out in a minute .
One minute .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ do something like that , by injection inside or almost a cleaning ?
So it 'd be interesting to check that . ''
`` Due to recent speculation and social media activity , RB ( the makers of Lysol and Dettol ) has been asked whether the internal administration of disinfectants may be appropriate for investigation or use as a treatment for the coronavirus , '' a company spokesperson said in a statement .
As a global leader in health and hygiene products , we must be clear that under no circumstance should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body ( through injection , ingestion or any other route ) .
As with all products , our disinfectant and hygiene products should only be used as intended and in line with usage guidelines .
Please read the label and safety information . ''

American officials have been left staggered by President Donald Trump’s suggestion that coronavirus could be treated by injecting disinfectant.
In a jaw-dropping announcement, Mr Trump suggested White House officials should “look into” injecting household disinfectant like bleach to treat the disease, in a briefing on Thursday.
‘I’m, like, a person that has a good you-know-what’
The bizarre announcement was made by the President after he listened to US government research in the daily coronavirus briefing task force.
The researchers found coronavirus appeared to weaken more quickly when exposed to sunlight and heat.
The study also showed bleach could kill the virus in saliva or respiratory fluids within five minutes and isopropyl alcohol could kill it even more quickly.
However, the President’s theory failed to consider that intravenous bleach injections can result in death.
“So, supposing we hit the body with a tremendous – whether it’s ultraviolet or just very powerful light,” the president said, turning to the White House coronavirus response co-ordinator Dr Deborah Birx, “and I think you said that hasn’t been checked but you’re going to test it.
“And then I said, supposing you brought the light inside of the body, which you can do either through the skin or in some other way. And I think you said you’re going to test that too. Sounds interesting.
“And then I see the disinfectant where it knocks it out in a minute. One minute. And is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning? So it’d be interesting to check that.”
Pointing to his head, Mr Trump then added: “I’m not a doctor. But I’m, like, a person that has a good you-know-what.”
A fatal injection
As scientists have pointed out, injecting bleach into a vein could result in anything from diarrhoea to death.
RB, the makers of Dettol, have pointed out that “under no circumstance” should disinfectant be drunk or injected.
“Due to recent speculation and social media activity, RB (the makers of Lysol and Dettol) has been asked whether the internal administration of disinfectants may be appropriate for investigation or use as a treatment for the coronavirus,” a company spokesperson said in a statement.
As a global leader in health and hygiene products, we must be clear that under no circumstance should disinfectant products be administered into the human body (through injection, ingestion or any other route). As with all products, our disinfectant and hygiene products should only be used as intended and in line with usage guidelines. Please read the label and safety information.”
“There is NO SUBSTANCE that will disinfect your body of the coronavirus from the inside,” Stanford-trained doctor Eugene Gu tweeted.
PLEASE do not inject anything into your body or ingest anything at all to kill the coronavirus. There is NO SUBSTANCE that will disinfect your body of the coronavirus from the inside. Don’t inject or drink bleach, soap, don’t do isopropyl alcohol, lysol, or ANYTHING WHATSOEVER. — Eugene Gu, MD (@eugenegu) April 23, 2020
“To be clear: Intracavitary UV light and swallowing bleach or isopropyl alcohol can kill you,” New York emergency medicine physician Dara Kass tweeted. “Don’t do it.”
Please don't drink bleach or isopropyl alcohol to remove #COVID19 from your saliva. Please. — Dara Kass, MD (@darakass) April 23, 2020
The FDA’s website also states “The FDA has received reports of consumers who have suffered from severe vomiting, severe diarrhoea, life-threatening low blood pressure caused by dehydration, and acute liver failure after drinking these products.”
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also challenged the President’s jaw-dropping claim after it saw a surge in poison centre call-outs over bogus claims bleach can treat the virus.
More than 874,000 people in the United States are known to have been infected and over 49,600 have died of COVID-19, the highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus, according to a Reuters tally.
Additional reporting by Reuters


inews--2020-04-24--Coronavirus: MPs from all parties call for urgent action from the government to avert looming mental

Coronavirus: MPs from all parties call for urgent action from the government to avert looming mental health crisis in open letter

Coronavirus : MPs from all parties call for urgent action from the government to avert looming mental health crisis in open letter Exclusive : Frontline workers 'need to be offered PPE for the mind ' and mental health charities and services need greater funding The coronavirus pandemic will have an “ acute ” impact on mental health as people cope with the loss of loved ones , loneliness during the lockdown and uncertainty about the future , MPs of all parties are warning .
They are calling on ministers to draw up detailed plans to support people struggling during the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ families , as well as for extra funding for mental health charities and services .
The MPs ’ plea comes after government statistics showed that 53 per cent of people said their wellbeing had been affected by coronavirus and 47 per cent reported feeling high levels of anxiety .
They warned in a letter to Health Secretary Matt Hancock : “ It is critically important that the government prepare now for trauma , which is already becoming apparent , across society.
” The letter was organised by Munira Wilson , the Liberal Democrat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also signed by Conservative , Labour , SNP and DUP MPs .
They are calling for the development of a “ PPE for the mind ” initiative offering immediate mental health support for frontline workers .
The government should also set up an expert-led taskforce to advise on the best methods to deal with the mental health impact of coronavirus and should develop tailored plans for vulnerable groups , they say .
Rainbows drawn by local children in the window of the Olympic Cinema in Barnes ( Photo : Chris Jackson/Getty ) Ms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the mental health impact left in the wake of this virus must not be underestimated .
“ Thousands of frontline NHS and care staff , not to mention other key workers , are enduring deeply traumatic events through this ongoing Covid-19 crisis .
`` Thousands more are dealing with bereavement .
Millions are already struggling with loneliness , or may be under significant stress due to rapid changes in personal circumstances , from losing their job to losing their home.
” In the letter , MPs tell Health Secretary Matt Hancock that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receiving specialist mental health support and warn they could resort to alcohol , drugs or gambling without help .
“ We are also concerned that in the long run , NHS 111 , the Samaritans and other mental health charities and organisations will be overwhelmed with people needing their services .
“ We are requesting that the government increase their funding and publish a long-term strategy that will demonstrate what services those who have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic can access when the social distancing measures eventually abate , ” they say @

The coronavirus pandemic will have an “acute” impact on mental health as people cope with the loss of loved ones, loneliness during the lockdown and uncertainty about the future, MPs of all parties are warning.
They are calling on ministers to draw up detailed plans to support people struggling during the emergency, including frontline staff and bereaved families, as well as for extra funding for mental health charities and services.
The MPs’ plea comes after government statistics showed that 53 per cent of people said their wellbeing had been affected by coronavirus and 47 per cent reported feeling high levels of anxiety.
They warned in a letter to Health Secretary Matt Hancock: “It is critically important that the government prepare now for trauma, which is already becoming apparent, across society.”
The letter was organised by Munira Wilson, the Liberal Democrat health and social care spokeswoman, and also signed by Conservative, Labour, SNP and DUP MPs.
‘PPE for the mind’
Signatories include the former shadow Chancellor John McDonnell and Dan Poulter, a former Tory health minister.
They are calling for the development of a “PPE for the mind” initiative offering immediate mental health support for frontline workers.
The government should also set up an expert-led taskforce to advise on the best methods to deal with the mental health impact of coronavirus and should develop tailored plans for vulnerable groups, they say.
Ms Wilson told i: “The scale of the mental health impact left in the wake of this virus must not be underestimated.
“Thousands of frontline NHS and care staff, not to mention other key workers, are enduring deeply traumatic events through this ongoing Covid-19 crisis.
“Thousands more are dealing with bereavement. Millions are already struggling with loneliness, or may be under significant stress due to rapid changes in personal circumstances, from losing their job to losing their home.”
Drink and drugs warning
In the letter, MPs tell Health Secretary Matt Hancock that people are already running into problems in receiving specialist mental health support and warn they could resort to alcohol, drugs or gambling without help.
“We are also concerned that in the long run, NHS 111, the Samaritans and other mental health charities and organisations will be overwhelmed with people needing their services.
“We are requesting that the government increase their funding and publish a long-term strategy that will demonstrate what services those who have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic can access when the social distancing measures eventually abate,” they say.


inews--2020-04-24--What can I do about my membership cards? How National Trust, English Heritage and Art Pass are respo

What can I do about my membership cards? How National Trust, English Heritage and Art Pass are responding to coronavirus

What can I do about my membership cards ?
How National Trust , English Heritage and Art Pass are responding to coronavirus MY MONEY : I 'm dreaming of days out after lockdown but fear my discount schemes will have expired It might feel like we ’ ve hit the pause button on real life , but that doesn ’ t mean the same is true of our money .
You might be saving on petrol or train tickets , spending less on eating out and drinking , but what about the things paid for in advance that you now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow you to freeze your membership until a later date , a feature designed to accommodate for injuries rather than pandemics that is now proving useful ( even if it ’ s a headache for the fitness industry ) .
Are there any other membership and discount schemes that are offering the same thing ?
Having fun once everything is over I ’ ve been digging into this because I ’ ve been fantasising about what I ’ ll do when lockdown ends .
Most of my visions involve a visit to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away in Bath or Edinburgh visiting museums .
But a key element of these ideas would be my National Art Pass .
This is a membership card run by the Art Fund that lets you enter hundreds of galleries and museums for free or discounted rates .
In normal circumstances I ’ m constantly bothering my friends to get it and feeling smug about all the money it ’ s saved me .
But mine expires at the end of May , so it looks likely I ’ ll lose more than two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Of course , there ’ s a big difference between this type of organisation and a gym .
As the Art Fund pointed out when I got in touch , the Art Pass is technically a charitable donation .
The money raised helps cultural institutions .
“ These museums and galleries are currently experiencing exceptional challenges including severe financial impacts due to unprecedented closures , ” a spokeswoman told me .
It ’ s hard to feel too upset that I won ’ t get to use my Art Pass when I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ towards ensuring those landmarks are still standing in the future .
Museums and galleries have shut their doors ( Photo : Dan Kitwood/Getty Images ) What other schemes are doing However , Art Fund did say that card holders can get in touch if they need to discuss their membership.English Heritage is also aware of the lockdown ’ s impact , and as a thank-you has said members will be given an extra three months for free .
However , you can only unlock the additional time when you renew your membership .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sites including the Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace , has a similar offer available .
The National Trust has its own incentive for annual members , offering a 25 per cent discount on renewals .
If you pay monthly you can also apply for a three-month payment break .
These aren ’ t automatic benefits – you have to apply for both of these .
What about my railcard ?
Another integral part of my day out fantasy would be hopping on the train to my chosen destination .
But that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I bargained for if my railcard has expired by the time we are out of lockdown .
Usually it gets me a third off all my journeys , in exchange for a one-time fee which I paid upfront for the whole year .
Could there be a way to stop the clock on my railcard until I ’ m able to use it again ?
I called National Rail to check and was told it was currently sticking to all its terms and conditions .
So that ’ s a big fat no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season ticket holders .
Most train operators are offering refunds , though there usually needs to be a minimum number of weeks left on it .
In the end , I ’ m sure many of us will just feel grateful to be allowed out again , the time lost from memberships and discount schemes being only a relatively small financial hit compared to some of the other economic impacts of coronavirus .
But if you are trying to get a handle on your finances in the current crisis , it does seem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organisations .
Many will have options to help lessen the blow .

It might feel like we’ve hit the pause button on real life, but that doesn’t mean the same is true of our money. You might be saving on petrol or train tickets, spending less on eating out and drinking, but what about the things paid for in advance that you now can’t use?
Most gyms allow you to freeze your membership until a later date, a feature designed to accommodate for injuries rather than pandemics that is now proving useful (even if it’s a headache for the fitness industry). Are there any other membership and discount schemes that are offering the same thing?
Having fun once everything is over
I’ve been digging into this because I’ve been fantasising about what I’ll do when lockdown ends. Most of my visions involve a visit to a coastal castle, or perhaps a weekend away in Bath or Edinburgh visiting museums.
But a key element of these ideas would be my National Art Pass. This is a membership card run by the Art Fund that lets you enter hundreds of galleries and museums for free or discounted rates. In normal circumstances I’m constantly bothering my friends to get it and feeling smug about all the money it’s saved me. But mine expires at the end of May, so it looks likely I’ll lose more than two months of the 12 I paid for.
Of course, there’s a big difference between this type of organisation and a gym. As the Art Fund pointed out when I got in touch, the Art Pass is technically a charitable donation. The money raised helps cultural institutions. “These museums and galleries are currently experiencing exceptional challenges including severe financial impacts due to unprecedented closures,” a spokeswoman told me. It’s hard to feel too upset that I won’t get to use my Art Pass when I know the money I spent is going towards ensuring those landmarks are still standing in the future.
What other schemes are doing
However, Art Fund did say that card holders can get in touch if they need to discuss their membership.
English Heritage is also aware of the lockdown’s impact, and as a thank-you has said members will be given an extra three months for free.
However, you can only unlock the additional time when you renew your membership. Historic Royal Palaces, which has six sites including the Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace, has a similar offer available.
The National Trust has its own incentive for annual members, offering a 25 per cent discount on renewals. If you pay monthly you can also apply for a three-month payment break. These aren’t automatic benefits – you have to apply for both of these.
What about my railcard?
Another integral part of my day out fantasy would be hopping on the train to my chosen destination. But that train ticket could cost me more than I bargained for if my railcard has expired by the time we are out of lockdown. Usually it gets me a third off all my journeys, in exchange for a one-time fee which I paid upfront for the whole year. Could there be a way to stop the clock on my railcard until I’m able to use it again?
I called National Rail to check and was told it was currently sticking to all its terms and conditions. So that’s a big fat no. It’s better news for season ticket holders. Most train operators are offering refunds, though there usually needs to be a minimum number of weeks left on it.
In the end, I’m sure many of us will just feel grateful to be allowed out again, the time lost from memberships and discount schemes being only a relatively small financial hit compared to some of the other economic impacts of coronavirus.
But if you are trying to get a handle on your finances in the current crisis, it does seem to be worth checking in with individual organisations. Many will have options to help lessen the blow.


inews--2020-04-24--Australia floods: How heavy rainfall following devastating bush fires has put farmers' livelihoods a

Australia floods: How heavy rainfall following devastating bush fires has put farmers' livelihoods at risk

Australia floods : How heavy rainfall following devastating bush fires has put farmers ' livelihoods at risk Australia ’ s farmers have battled fires , followed by heavy rainfall .
For some , the water brings relief — for others , a new set of problems For almost three years , Chris Groves had become accustomed to surviving with little water .
As large parts of Australia baked in persistent drought , the farmer from Cowra in central New South Wales had no choice .
“ We hadn ’ t had one rainfall of more than 20mm since September 2017 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We were hand-feeding all of the livestock .
We could only access water through a council pipe , which was expensive.
” After the flames , the floods And as coronavirus introduces a new level of uncertainty , the changes in weather could not have come at a better time .
While large parts of Australia are still technically in drought , the recent rains could help save some of the country ’ s agricultural producers .
But it will take more than a few months of rain to reverse years of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sell livestock .
Australia ’ s sheep flock is now at the lowest levels since 1901 .
The damage is even worse for those hit by the recent fires .
'Oysters are a beautiful product to have to celebrate .
But if you lose your job , or your hours have been cut or you have no idea what the future is going to bring , you are not going to go out and buy a dozen oysters' “ We had the fires and then heavy rains .
And now we have coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a drop in consumer spending on luxury items like oysters , ” she says .
“ Oysters are a beautiful product to have to celebrate .
But if you lose your job , or your hours have been cut or you have no idea what the future is going to bring , you are not going to go out and buy a dozen oysters.
” Since the January fires , Ms Henry has seen her output plummet by about two thirds .
She is confident she will be able to hang on because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ downturn – but she predicts many others in her industry will be forced out of business .
Food supplies must be kept open “ Normally floods will bring silt but this year it was ash .
It was so fine it set like a rock , ” he says .
“ We just wanted a little bit of rain .
We didn ’ t want a flood.
” Mr Groves , who is also a vice president of the NSW Farmers Association , says farmers are confident they will continue to be seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world has to eat .
Food supplies must be kept open .
”

For almost three years, Chris Groves had become accustomed to surviving with little water. As large parts of Australia baked in persistent drought, the farmer from Cowra in central New South Wales had no choice.
“We hadn’t had one rainfall of more than 20mm since September 2017,” Mr Groves tells i. “We were hand-feeding all of the livestock. We could only access water through a council pipe, which was expensive.”
But Mr Groves is now among the many farmers across eastern Australia who are quietly rejoicing after the wettest few months in nearly a decade.
After years of drought and the summer’s devastating bushfires, large tracts of eastern Australia have received a deluge that has boosted agricultural production and helped fuel regrowth across a bone-dry and scorched landscape.
After the flames, the floods
Parts of NSW have seen falls of more than 100mm in recent weeks, with Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology predicting solid rain as the southern hemisphere enters winter. It’s welcome news for farmers.
Steve Harrison says the drought had become so entrenched on his property near Sale in Victoria that parched soil was being whipped up by winds into fierce dust storms.
But within weeks of Mr Harrison watching flames singe neighbours’ farms, his land was drenched with rain.
By the end of February, his property recorded 170mm of rainfall – enough to give him a head start on his winter crops of wheat and grain.
“It’s the best we’ve had for three years,” Mr Harrison says. “The community spirit has really lifted.”
And as coronavirus introduces a new level of uncertainty, the changes in weather could not have come at a better time. While large parts of Australia are still technically in drought, the recent rains could help save some of the country’s agricultural producers.
But it will take more than a few months of rain to reverse years of losses that have forced many farmers to sell livestock. Australia’s sheep flock is now at the lowest levels since 1901. The damage is even worse for those hit by the recent fires.
“Farmers impacted by the summer’s devastating bushfires are starting to rebuild, the environment has regenerated well in many places,” National Farmers’ Federation chief Tony Mahar says.
“However, for many, it will take some time longer to rebuild critical infrastructure, livestock numbers, orchards, vineyards and other crops.”
The rains have also begun to have a positive impact on native wildlife.
Positive impact
Billions of litres of water have flowed into the Menindee Lakes in far western NSW where thousands of native fish died in 2019 in an ecological disaster.
But in some parts of the country, the deluge brought a new set of problems.
‘Oysters are a beautiful product to have to celebrate. But if you lose your job, or your hours have been cut or you have no idea what the future is going to bring, you are not going to go out and buy a dozen oysters’
For Caroline Henry, who battled flames for 10 days in January to only just save her oyster farm at Wonboyn Lake in southern NSW, heavy rain later flushed ash and sediment through the catchment, damaging her stock.
After these twin disasters, the current Covid-19 crisis is dealing another blow to producers like Ms Henry.
“We had the fires and then heavy rains. And now we have coronavirus, which has closed restaurants and seen a drop in consumer spending on luxury items like oysters,” she says.
“Oysters are a beautiful product to have to celebrate. But if you lose your job, or your hours have been cut or you have no idea what the future is going to bring, you are not going to go out and buy a dozen oysters.”
Since the January fires, Ms Henry has seen her output plummet by about two thirds. She is confident she will be able to hang on because she says she has planned for a downturn – but she predicts many others in her industry will be forced out of business.
NSW south coast farmer Rob Miller, whose struggle with bushfire was reported by i in January, has also suffered further in the aftermath.
Food supplies must be kept open
After losing cattle to the January fires, Mr Miller’s farm was inundated with floods that washed ash onto his land.
“Normally floods will bring silt but this year it was ash. It was so fine it set like a rock,” he says. “We just wanted a little bit of rain. We didn’t want a flood.”
After the rain, dozens of Mr Miller’s cows became ill with bovine ephemeral fever, known as “three-day sickness”, which is more common in warmer subtropical climates.
‘We’ve had fires, floods, plagues and now a virus. It has been very challenging’
An infestation of army worm, a native pest which thrives after rain, has also damaged crops and caused toxins that are dangerous to livestock.
“We’ve had fires, floods, plagues and now a virus,” he says. “It has been very challenging.”
Even with a new set of concerns posed by coronavirus, Mr Miller is philosophical. “That’s nature. You get thrown a few curve balls and you hope you can come out the other side.”
While there are fears that coronavirus restrictions will make it harder for farmers to get access to the temporary workers they rely on to pick crops in harvest seasons, others are sure they can survive the latest crisis.
Mr Groves, who is also a vice president of the NSW Farmers Association, says farmers are confident they will continue to be seen as an essential service: “The world has to eat. Food supplies must be kept open.”


inews--2020-04-24--Liz Truss to review treatment for transgender teens and single-sex spaces under Gender Recognition A

Liz Truss to review treatment for transgender teens and single-sex spaces under Gender Recognition Act plans The Minister unveiled plans to review certain parts of the Gender Recognition Act in the summer Charities fear that `` a new form of inequality '' will be introduced for transgender people under government amendments to the Gender Recognition Act .
Plans to revive revisions to the Act , which were said to have been abandoned a matter of weeks ago , have resurfaced and will see amendments to the act underway in the summer , according to Minister for Women and Equalities Liz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charities concerned with the wellbeing of transgender people have raised issues with plans to `` protect single-sex spaces '' and ensure that under-18s are `` protected from decisions ... that are irreversible in the future , '' which could lead to a dismantling of rights for the vulnerable community .
Speaking to the Women and Equalities Select Committee , Ms Truss said : `` We ’ ve been doing a lot of work internally , making sure we ’ re in a position to respond to that consultation and launch what we propose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gender Recognition Act .
We will be in a position to do that by the summer , and there are three very important principles that I will be putting place .
Liz Truss ' comments have been met with concern by leading trans rights charities ( Photo by Jack Taylor/Getty Images ) '' First of all , the protection of single-sex spaces , which is extremely important .
Secondly making sure that transgender adults are free to live their lives as they wish without fear of persecution , whilst maintaining the proper checks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Finally , which is not a direct issue concerning the Gender Recognition Act , but is relevant , making sure that the under 18s are protected from decisions that they could make , that are irreversible in the future , '' she added .
Reports have suggested that the final point made to the committee suggests that all gender confirmation surgery will be banned for under 18s .
However , as it stands , under 18s can not access gender confirmation surgery through the NHS Gender Identity Development Service ( GIDS ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the announcement could affect access to medical provisions for gender-diverse and questioning children and teens , who use puberty blockers , a physically reversible treatment that effectively pauses puberty , to consider whether they wish to take hormones , as well as affecting whether they are considered to be consenting adults for other treatments such as abortion and contraception under the Gillick competency test .
At the very heart of the GRA consultation is a feeling that voices are being stifled and that the debate is anti-democratic ( Getty Images )

Charities fear that “a new form of inequality” will be introduced for transgender people under government amendments to the Gender Recognition Act.
Plans to revive revisions to the Act, which were said to have been abandoned a matter of weeks ago, have resurfaced and will see amendments to the act underway in the summer, according to Minister for Women and Equalities Liz Truss’ announcement on Wednesday.
But charities concerned with the wellbeing of transgender people have raised issues with plans to “protect single-sex spaces” and ensure that under-18s are “protected from decisions… that are irreversible in the future,” which could lead to a dismantling of rights for the vulnerable community.
Confusion over under 18s surgery ban
Speaking to the Women and Equalities Select Committee, Ms Truss said: “We’ve been doing a lot of work internally, making sure we’re in a position to respond to that consultation and launch what we propose to do on the future of the Gender Recognition Act. We will be in a position to do that by the summer, and there are three very important principles that I will be putting place.
“First of all, the protection of single-sex spaces, which is extremely important. Secondly making sure that transgender adults are free to live their lives as they wish without fear of persecution, whilst maintaining the proper checks and balances in the system.
“Finally, which is not a direct issue concerning the Gender Recognition Act, but is relevant, making sure that the under 18s are protected from decisions that they could make, that are irreversible in the future,” she added.
Reports have suggested that the final point made to the committee suggests that all gender confirmation surgery will be banned for under 18s. However, as it stands, under 18s cannot access gender confirmation surgery through the NHS Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS).
Charities working with transgender youth are concerned that the announcement could affect access to medical provisions for gender-diverse and questioning children and teens, who use puberty blockers, a physically reversible treatment that effectively pauses puberty, to consider whether they wish to take hormones, as well as affecting whether they are considered to be consenting adults for other treatments such as abortion and contraception under the Gillick competency test.
“It is not clear what Truss means when she expresses concerns about people under the age of 18 making “irreversible decisions.” When we talk about children transitioning, we are rarely talking about medical or surgical transition. What we’re actually referring to is a process of social transition, where the child is supported by parents or carers, school staff and peers etc, to use a new name and pronoun and is allowed to dress in a way that is comfortable and fitting for them.
The blockers are taken for two years on average. Following those, the teenager can decide whether they want to take hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and take oestrogen or testosterone to undergo a puberty more similar to their real gender.
‘A new form of inequality’?
Laura Russell, Director of Campaigns, Policy and Research, Stonewall said: “While it’s good to hear the Government will set out its proposals for next steps on reform of the Gender Recognition Act, we’re concerned about comments that relate to protecting trans people who are under 18 from making ‘irreversible decisions’.
“Where a trans young person has consistently and over a long period of time, under watchful supervision of trained NHS psychologists, identified their gender to not be the one assigned to them at birth, they may be allowed to access puberty blockers,” CEO of Gendered Intelligence, Jay Stewart explains.
“Puberty blockers which are about hitting the pause button, and are completely reversible. Their aim is to allow for more time to think things through calmly and not against the clock. Surely this makes for healthier and more consent-based personal decisions.
‘Cross sex hormones’ are accessible from age of 16. At 16 a person can already join the army, open an ISA, have sex, get married and have a child. Most importantly, this is the age where people are legally seen as being able to give full consent to medical and surgical treatment. In the UK, it is only after 18 that anyone can access gender-affirming surgeries,” he added.
“We’d welcome an opportunity to discuss this with the Minister, as it’s crucial all young people who are questioning their gender identity are able to access high-quality, timely support. Every trans young person should be given the care they need, in an informed and supportive manner, so they’re able to lead a happy, healthy life.”
If the imposed changes affect medical treatment for transgender youths, Liz Truss could be bringing “a new form of inequality into British medical practice” if she goes ahead with these changes, warned Mermaids.
A Mermaids spokesperson said: “It would be an extraordinary move for the Minister for Women and Equalities to support the introduction of a new form of inequality into British medical practice.”
For people like Alex, who was given access to testosterone at the age of 16, the treatment has been “lifesaving.”
“It really reduces the dysphoria and live my life,” he told i. “I’ve got a friend who hasn’t [got hormones], and sometimes he won’t even speak because of how high his voice is. He can’t deal with that. I’m basically at a point where I can live a normal life, and that’s your goal as a trans person, so it’s really amazing. [If I couldn’t get treatment] I would probably be suicidal. I would be in a pretty bad place.”


inews--2020-04-24--Travis Scott Fortnite event: what time live concerts are, how to get the new skin and the Astronomic

Travis Scott Fortnite event: what time live concerts are, how to get the new skin and the Astronomical challenges explained

Travis Scott Fortnite event : what time live concerts are , how to get the new skin and the Astronomical challenges explained Astronomical is ' a one of a kind musical journey featuring Travis Scott' The latest crossover event to come to Fortnite has been revealed , and includes another huge live concert to be performed within the popular battle royale game .
Astronomical is `` a one of a kind musical journey featuring Travis Scott '' , according to developers Epic Games , and will see the world premiere of a brand new track from the American rapper .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about it : When does Astronomical take place ?
With a large percentage of Fortnite 's player-base experiencing lockdown measures in their home countries , the game 's servers are under more pressure than ever as players log on in droves to quell their boredom .
Coupled with the fact that Fortnite 's in-game events often see a swell in the numbers of players online as fans log on to see what all the fuss is about , and things could get heavy for the tech running behind the game .
Epic Games @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holding just one special performance , they are staggering the show around the world , with multiple 'tour dates ' announced .
`` To make sure everyone has a chance to experience Astronomical , '' say Epic , `` we ’ re setting up multiple tour dates with showtimes for players around the globe .
`` Jump in to whichever time fits your schedule best , or catch an encore with your friends if they missed it . ''
'Doors ' to each performance will open 30 minutes before the show , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to secure your spot . ''
Players that attend any of the Astronomical live events will also be awarded with an Astroworld Cyclone Glider and two loading screens .
What else is happening ?
Just some of the swag available through Astronomical ( Image : Epic Games ) Players will be able to get their hands on his Outfits , Emotes , and more starting from today ( 21 April ) .
From the same day , you will be able to unlock even more free gear by completing the Astronomical Challenges .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Astronomical Challenges have not gone live at the time of writing , dataminers who have poured through the game 's code - and are usually reliable in their findings - claim to uncovered the tasks ahead of time .
There are a total of three challenges on offer which won ’ t take players too long to complete .
It 's not yet confirmed when the challenges will go live in-game , but here they are :

The latest crossover event to come to Fortnite has been revealed, and includes another huge live concert to be performed within the popular battle royale game.
Astronomical is “a one of a kind musical journey featuring Travis Scott”, according to developers Epic Games, and will see the world premiere of a brand new track from the American rapper.
Here is everything you need to know about it:
When does Astronomical take place?
Fortnite’s latest crossover event will take place between 23 – 25 April.
With a large percentage of Fortnite’s player-base experiencing lockdown measures in their home countries, the game’s servers are under more pressure than ever as players log on in droves to quell their boredom.
Coupled with the fact that Fortnite’s in-game events often see a swell in the numbers of players online as fans log on to see what all the fuss is about, and things could get heavy for the tech running behind the game.
Epic Games realise this, and so instead of holding just one special performance, they are staggering the show around the world, with multiple ‘tour dates’ announced.
“To make sure everyone has a chance to experience Astronomical,” say Epic, “we’re setting up multiple tour dates with showtimes for players around the globe.
“Jump in to whichever time fits your schedule best, or catch an encore with your friends if they missed it.”
The Astronomical ‘tour dates’ are as follows (all times are UK times):
Friday 24 April – 1am
Friday 24 April – 4pm
Saturday 25 April – 6am
Saturday 25 April – 5pm
Sunday 26 April – 12am
‘Doors’ to each performance will open 30 minutes before the show, with Epic recommending you “get in early to secure your spot.”
Players that attend any of the Astronomical live events will also be awarded with an Astroworld Cyclone Glider and two loading screens.
What else is happening?
Ahead of the Astronomical events, Epic have announced Travis Scott is the newest addition to the Icon Series.
Players will be able to get their hands on his Outfits, Emotes, and more starting from today (21 April).
From the same day, you will be able to unlock even more free gear by completing the Astronomical Challenges.
What are the Astronomical Challenges?
While the Astronomical Challenges have not gone live at the time of writing, dataminers who have poured through the game’s code – and are usually reliable in their findings – claim to uncovered the tasks ahead of time.
There are a total of three challenges on offer which won’t take players too long to complete. It’s not yet confirmed when the challenges will go live in-game, but here they are:
The full list of Astronomical Challenges is as follows (per FortniteInsider):
Dance for 10 seconds on the dance floor at The Yacht or Apres Ski
Bounce off different giant Astro heads
Visit the stage north of Sweaty Sands
Epic Games have announced players will be rewarded with an emote, banner, spray, and a loading screen for completing the Travis Scott Fortnite challenges.


inews--2020-04-24--What's on TV tonight: The wonders of space are revealed by the Hubble Telescope

What 's on TV tonight : The wonders of space are revealed by the Hubble Telescope Also Joe Lycett continues his crusade for consumer rights and Tony Robinson 's train odyssey sees him reach Moscow Pick of the day : Hubble : The Wonders of Space Revealed “ One of the most successful scientific experiments in human history , ” is how the Hubble Space Telescope is described here – an assessment it is hard to contradict after watching this documentary marking the 30th anniversary of its launch .
Orbiting 540km above us , Hubble had a shaky start when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blurred images .
That necessitated the first of five space walks to repair and upgrade the telescope , and we meet some of the astronauts who performed these hugely expensive DIY tasks so that astronomers can now look billions of light years into space with clarity .
Esther Rantzen ’ s consumer affairs programme That ’ s Life !
gets an amusing makeover by Joe Lycett , this week with Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen helping the host deliver his own brand of justice to a parcel delivery company .
Meanwhile , one-time Treasure Hunt star @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a hunt for the UK ’ s vanishing cash machines , and Rosie Jones gets into a lather over unethical beauty products .
Suzy Klein not only began her 2017 series about the political role of music in the 20th century by playing Beethoven ’ s “ Appassionata ” on the piano , but she does it on the very instrument that Lenin used to bash out the same piece .
Later , Klein gets to smash up a different piano as she demonstrates the Russian revolutionaries ’ more absurd reactions to their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tyrants of both left and right recognised and feared the power of music , but Klein begins her history lesson with the cabarets of Weimar Berlin Around the World by Train with Tony Robinson This week finds the actor-broadcaster aboard the Trans-Siberian Railway connecting Moscow with the Russian Far East .
In Khabarovsk , he is invited to warm up over dinner with a group of locals who offer him a taste of their home-brewed vodka , learning about how Russia has changed since the days of Communism , while further stops include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heads west towards Finland ’ s capital city , Helsinki .
Sir Tony 's rail odyssey takes him through South America and Mexico before moving on to Canada and Alaska ( Photo : Channel 5 ) A long way from the sunny , almost operatic style of Inspector Montalbano , this Italian noir has a chilly , washed-out demeanour that suits its leading character , the recently drug-addicted detective Valeria Ferro ( Miriam Leone ) , who is now flushing those pills down the toilet .
This week ’ s whodunnit concerns a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whose charred remains are discovered in the oven by the worker who has been having an affair with the victim ’ s wife .
Jackie is in hospital having a “ woman ’ s procedure , ” so Aunty Val ( Tracy-Ann Oberman ) is tasked with making the Friday night dinner .
To Adam and Jonny ’ s horror , she spends most of the evening glued to a dating app , before showing them several photos of semi-naked men .
Val is especially obsessed with one guy , who goes by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and is picking Val up from the house in 40 minutes .

Pick of the day: Hubble: The Wonders of Space Revealed
9pm, BBC Two
“One of the most successful scientific experiments in human history,” is how the Hubble Space Telescope is described here – an assessment it is hard to contradict after watching this documentary marking the 30th anniversary of its launch. Orbiting 540km above us, Hubble had a shaky start when a warped mirror meant it was relaying blurred images. That necessitated the first of five space walks to repair and upgrade the telescope, and we meet some of the astronauts who performed these hugely expensive DIY tasks so that astronomers can now look billions of light years into space with clarity.
Joe Lycett’s Got Your Back
8pm, Channel 4
Esther Rantzen’s consumer affairs programme That’s Life! gets an amusing makeover by Joe Lycett, this week with Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen helping the host deliver his own brand of justice to a parcel delivery company. Meanwhile, one-time Treasure Hunt star Anneka Rice dons a jumpsuit again on a hunt for the UK’s vanishing cash machines, and Rosie Jones gets into a lather over unethical beauty products.
Read More Normal People’s Paul Mescal: ‘I’m most proud of how sex is portrayed in this series’
Tunes For Tyrants: Music & Power With Suzy Klein
8pm, BBC Four
Suzy Klein not only began her 2017 series about the political role of music in the 20th century by playing Beethoven’s “Appassionata” on the piano, but she does it on the very instrument that Lenin used to bash out the same piece. Later, Klein gets to smash up a different piano as she demonstrates the Russian revolutionaries’ more absurd reactions to their uprights, which were deemed bourgeois. Tyrants of both left and right recognised and feared the power of music, but Klein begins her history lesson with the cabarets of Weimar Berlin
Around the World by Train with Tony Robinson
9pm, Channel 5
This week finds the actor-broadcaster aboard the Trans-Siberian Railway connecting Moscow with the Russian Far East. In Khabarovsk, he is invited to warm up over dinner with a group of locals who offer him a taste of their home-brewed vodka, learning about how Russia has changed since the days of Communism, while further stops include Red Square in Moscow, before he heads west towards Finland’s capital city, Helsinki.
Thou Shalt Not Kill
9pm, More4
A long way from the sunny, almost operatic style of Inspector Montalbano, this Italian noir has a chilly, washed-out demeanour that suits its leading character, the recently drug-addicted detective Valeria Ferro (Miriam Leone), who is now flushing those pills down the toilet. This week’s whodunnit concerns a business partner in a brick factory, whose charred remains are discovered in the oven by the worker who has been having an affair with the victim’s wife.
Friday Night Dinner
10pm, Channel 4
Jackie is in hospital having a “woman’s procedure,” so Aunty Val (Tracy-Ann Oberman) is tasked with making the Friday night dinner. To Adam and Jonny’s horror, she spends most of the evening glued to a dating app, before showing them several photos of semi-naked men. Val is especially obsessed with one guy, who goes by the name of “Loverboy 309”, and is picking Val up from the house in 40 minutes.


inews--2020-04-24--Coronavirus in the US: Doctors accuse Donald Trump of causing 'countless' preventable deaths

Coronavirus in the US : Doctors accuse Donald Trump of causing 'countless ' preventable deaths On Thursday , jaws crashed to the floor when Mr Trump told journalists that Americans might inject themselves with disinfectant Donald Trump ’ s senior medical advisers are battling a virus that has now killed 50,000 Americans .
But every day they must also perform damage-limitation over the US President ’ s bizarre pronouncements about how to treat Covid-19 .
On Thursday , jaws crashed to the floor when Mr Trump told journalists that Americans might inject themselves with disinfectant to beat the virus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Deborah Birx , looked stunned and was seen inhaling deeply as Mr Trump suggested using toilet cleaner and ultraviolet light to beat the infection .
“ I see the disinfectant where it knocks it [ coronavirus ] out in a minute .
One minute , ” he told journalists .
“ And is there a way we can do something like that , by injection inside or almost a cleaning ?
” The minds of his expert officials were already racing .
How would they publicly contradict this new idiocy , but also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who was sacked as head of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority for dismissing Mr Trump ’ s call to treat Covid-19 patients with another unproven treatment , hydroxychloroquine .
Clinical tests have cast doubt on its safety and efficacy , while at least one person has died after self-medicating with the drug described by the President as a “ game-changer ” ?
The experts need not have worried this time .
With the vision of thousand lawsuits in their minds , manufacturers of bathroom products leapt in .
Reckitt Benckiser @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cillit Bang , said that “ under no circumstance ” should its products be injected or ingested .
Mr Trump also claimed there were “ emerging results ” that solar light , heat and humidity had a powerful effect in killing the virus on surfaces and in the air .
But previous studies have found no solid evidence that the warmer temperatures and higher humidity in spring and summer will limit the spread of the virus .
After the US death toll passed 50,000 , two senior American doctors launched an unprecedented attack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ causing “ countless ” preventable deaths .
Writing in the British Medical Journal , Gavin Yamey , a professor of global health and public policy at Duke University , and Gregg Gonsalves , an assistant professor of epidemiology at Yale School of Public Health , said that Mr Trump ’ s “ astounding incompetence ” had played a major role the US Covid-19 epidemic , which was , they said , an “ avertable catastrophe ” .
They noted that in late January he was unmoved by the World Health Organisation ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called criticisms of his failure to act “ a new hoax ” .
They said his administration deliberately weakened the nation ’ s pandemic response capabilities .
But the academics said that Mr Trump ’ s latest , and arguably most dangerous , blunder was to call last week for mass public protests by his supporters to “ liberate ” states from their stay-at-home orders .
Georgia is leading this way by opening its gyms , bar and tattoo parlours this weekend .
The President also told reporters that a vaccine was “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US infectious diseases official , Anthony Fauci , saying that such a treatment would take 18 months to develop .

Donald Trump’s senior medical advisers are battling a virus that has now killed 50,000 Americans. But every day they must also perform damage-limitation over the US President’s bizarre pronouncements about how to treat Covid-19.
On Thursday, jaws crashed to the floor when Mr Trump told journalists that Americans might inject themselves with disinfectant to beat the virus. The White House coronavirus co-ordinator, Dr Deborah Birx, looked stunned and was seen inhaling deeply as Mr Trump suggested using toilet cleaner and ultraviolet light to beat the infection.
“I see the disinfectant where it knocks it [coronavirus] out in a minute. One minute,” he told journalists. “And is there a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning?”
The minds of his expert officials were already racing. How would they publicly contradict this new idiocy, but also avoid the fate of Dr Rick Bright, who was sacked as head of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority for dismissing Mr Trump’s call to treat Covid-19 patients with another unproven treatment, hydroxychloroquine. Clinical tests have cast doubt on its safety and efficacy, while at least one person has died after self-medicating with the drug described by the President as a “game-changer”?
Worrying claims
The experts need not have worried this time. With the vision of thousand lawsuits in their minds, manufacturers of bathroom products leapt in. Reckitt Benckiser, which makes Dettol, Vanish and Cillit Bang, said that “under no circumstance” should its products be injected or ingested.
Mr Trump also claimed there were “emerging results” that solar light, heat and humidity had a powerful effect in killing the virus on surfaces and in the air. But previous studies have found no solid evidence that the warmer temperatures and higher humidity in spring and summer will limit the spread of the virus.
After the US death toll passed 50,000, two senior American doctors launched an unprecedented attack on the President, accusing him of causing “countless” preventable deaths. Writing in the British Medical Journal, Gavin Yamey, a professor of global health and public policy at Duke University, and Gregg Gonsalves, an assistant professor of epidemiology at Yale School of Public Health, said that Mr Trump’s “astounding incompetence” had played a major role the US Covid-19 epidemic, which was, they said, an “avertable catastrophe”.
They noted that in late January he was unmoved by the World Health Organisation’s warning of a pandemic-potential virus, and called criticisms of his failure to act “a new hoax”. They said his administration deliberately weakened the nation’s pandemic response capabilities.
But the academics said that Mr Trump’s latest, and arguably most dangerous, blunder was to call last week for mass public protests by his supporters to “liberate” states from their stay-at-home orders. Georgia is leading this way by opening its gyms, bar and tattoo parlours this weekend.
The President also told reporters that a vaccine was “very close”, despite the senior US infectious diseases official, Anthony Fauci, saying that such a treatment would take 18 months to develop.


inews--2020-04-24--Coronavirus: leading surgeon calls for 'Covid-free hubs' to treat cancer patients

Professor Michael Griffin said cancer surgeons facing 'an impossibly difficult question ' of whether to operate amid the coronavirus outbreak The head of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh ( RCSEd ) has called for more `` Covid-free hubs '' to be available in the UK so life-saving procedures can go ahead amid the coronavirus outbreak .
Professor Michael Griffin said cancer surgeons are facing `` an impossibly difficult question '' of whether to operate as he revealed a third of those who carry out cancer operations have completely stopped them .
It comes as the head of NHS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to launch an advertising campaign this weekennd urging people who have non-Covid-related health problems to seek help from the NHS .
The Scottish Government launched a similar scheme - the NHS is Open - on Friday morning .
The plea comes alongside new findings that four in ten people are too concerned about being a burden on the NHS to seek help from their GP .
The RCSEd , which represents 15,000 members UK-wide , conducted a survey of its fellows and found 87 per cent of cancer surgeons have reduced the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health England guidance to introduce these Covid-free hubs in a bid to continue procedures while minimising transmission .
More than half ( 53 per cent ) of those surveyed by the RCSEd said their NHS trust or health board had not yet set up such a space for these major cancer operations to take place .
Thousands of people are avoiding seeking help for potential cancer due to fears over coronavirus , a leading charity has warned ( Photo : Christopher Furlong/Getty ) Professor Griffin said : `` Surgeons are facing an extremely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to performing surgery in what we call Covid-rich environments .
Major surgeries on certain cancer types have very significant risks attached to them and performing them in an environment where coronavirus is present could potentially outweigh the risk of delaying surgery . ''
The Health Secretary , Matt Hancock , said this week he could not guarantee all cancer treatment would go ahead .
One of the country 's leading oncologists , Professor Karol Sikora , told i last week that cancer cutbacks could result in up to 60,000 excess deaths over a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ main issue is having `` no uniform approach across the country '' .
He said : `` A cancer patient in one part of the country could receive a completely different course of treatment to someone in another region depending on whether there is a Covid-deficient environment available for them to operate in .
`` Where possible we must maintain consistency of treatment , and for this reason , we need more of these hubs where the presence of coronavirus is minimised . ''
John Appleby , chief economist at the Nuffield Trust @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Medical Journal , saying the measures being taken to deal with Covid-19 may be having a negative effect on other causes of death .
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said : `` We are clear that vital cancer treatments and emergency , maternity and urgent care will continue where that is clinically agreed .
We are working hard to ensure vital and urgent care remains , including the use of private hospitals to treat these NHS patients .
`` However , we recognise the significant pressure that our NHS is under and we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for some cancer surgical procedures and , therefore , for some cancer patients treatment plans may change over the coming weeks and months . ''
Sir Simon said : “ While NHS staff have pulled out all the stops to deal with Coronavirus they have also worked hard to ensure that patients who don ’ t have Covid 19 can safely access essential services .
“ So whether you or loved one have the symptoms or a heart attack or stroke , are a parent worried about their child or have concerns about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help in the way you always would .
Ignoring problems can have serious consequences - now or in the future .
”

The head of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd) has called for more “Covid-free hubs” to be available in the UK so life-saving procedures can go ahead amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Professor Michael Griffin said cancer surgeons are facing “an impossibly difficult question” of whether to operate as he revealed a third of those who carry out cancer operations have completely stopped them.
It comes as the head of NHS England, Sir Simon Stevens, is due to launch an advertising campaign this weekennd urging people who have non-Covid-related health problems to seek help from the NHS. The Scottish Government launched a similar scheme – the NHS is Open – on Friday morning. The plea comes alongside new findings that four in ten people are too concerned about being a burden on the NHS to seek help from their GP.
The RCSEd, which represents 15,000 members UK-wide, conducted a survey of its fellows and found 87 per cent of cancer surgeons have reduced the number of operations taking place despite Public Health England guidance to introduce these Covid-free hubs in a bid to continue procedures while minimising transmission. More than half (53 per cent) of those surveyed by the RCSEd said their NHS trust or health board had not yet set up such a space for these major cancer operations to take place.
Life-saving operations
Professor Griffin said: “Surgeons are facing an extremely difficult time right now when it comes to performing surgery in what we call Covid-rich environments. Major surgeries on certain cancer types have very significant risks attached to them and performing them in an environment where coronavirus is present could potentially outweigh the risk of delaying surgery.”
Surgeons say the hubs can be private hospital spaces solely for non-coronavirus purposes, or in cities which have more than one hospital.
The Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, said this week he could not guarantee all cancer treatment would go ahead. One of the country’s leading oncologists, Professor Karol Sikora, told i last week that cancer cutbacks could result in up to 60,000 excess deaths over a six-month period.
Professor Griffin said the main issue is having “no uniform approach across the country”. He said: “A cancer patient in one part of the country could receive a completely different course of treatment to someone in another region depending on whether there is a Covid-deficient environment available for them to operate in.
“Where possible we must maintain consistency of treatment, and for this reason, we need more of these hubs where the presence of coronavirus is minimised.”
Negative effect
John Appleby, chief economist at the Nuffield Trust, has also written in the British Medical Journal, saying the measures being taken to deal with Covid-19 may be having a negative effect on other causes of death.
A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: “We are clear that vital cancer treatments and emergency, maternity and urgent care will continue where that is clinically agreed. We are working hard to ensure vital and urgent care remains, including the use of private hospitals to treat these NHS patients.
“However, we recognise the significant pressure that our NHS is under and we cannot underestimate the risks from Covid-19 particularly for some cancer surgical procedures and, therefore, for some cancer patients treatment plans may change over the coming weeks and months.”
Sir Simon said: “While NHS staff have pulled out all the stops to deal with Coronavirus they have also worked hard to ensure that patients who don’t have Covid 19 can safely access essential services.
“So whether you or loved one have the symptoms or a heart attack or stroke, are a parent worried about their child or have concerns about conditions such as cancer you should seek help in the way you always would. Ignoring problems can have serious consequences – now or in the future.”


inews--2020-04-24--Coronavirus: blood plasma hope for treating thousands of Covid-19 patients

Up to 5,000 severely ill people could be treated each week if new clinical trial proves a success , Health Secretary Matt Hancock says Patients who have already had confirmed Covid-19 will be allowed to donate their plasma in the hope it will help other patients who are ill ( Photo : ALEX EDELMAN/AFP/Getty ) The national randomised clinical trial will help to determine if plasma collected from donors who have recovered from the illness , known as `` convalescent plasma '' , is an effective treatment for patients who are severely unwell with the illness .
Convalescent plasma was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sars outbreak in 2002 .
Plasma from recovered Covid-19 patients can be transfused to patients who are struggling to produce their own antibodies against the virus .
Senior ministers in India have already begun a trial with a handful of patients using the same method and said this week that plasma therapy showed `` positive and encouraging results '' on four coronavirus patients in Delhi , including one who was taken off a ventilator following the treatment .
In parallel to the UK 's trial , NHS Blood and Transport ( NHSBT ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plasma so that it can deliver at a large scale , if transfusions are shown to help patients .
NHSBT , which is working in collaboration with other NHS partners including the national blood services in Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland , will build up capacity in April and May so that it could collect up to 10,000 units a week , enough to treat 5,000 Covid-19 patients per week , with the final figure dependant on the trial results and hospital demand .
Plasma is the clear , straw-colored liquid portion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cells , white blood cells , platelets and other cellular components are removed .
It is the single largest component of human blood , comprising about 55 percent , and contains water , salts , enzymes , antibodies and other proteins .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said : “ The UK has world-leading life sciences and research sectors and I have every hope this treatment will be a major milestone in our fight against this disease .
Hundreds of people are participating in national trials already for potential treatments and the scaling up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potentially benefit from it in the future.
” A doctor who has recovered from the COVID-19 coronavirus infection holding a bag of plasma donated by him in Wuhan in China 's central Hubei province ( Photo : STR/AFP/Getty ) Officials say the UK is leading the world ’ s largest trials to find a treatment for Covid-19 with over 7,000 people so far involved testing a range of medicines .
NHS blood services will now contact people who have recovered from Covid-19 infection to become potential donors and invite them to their centres @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , chief medical officer at NHSBT , said : “ As well as continuing to collect enough blood throughout this outbreak , we are also heavily involved in the national research response including major trials of this potential treatment .
We are rapidly building our capability to collect plasma so that we can quickly move into supplying hospitals at scale , should the proposed trial demonstrate patient benefit.
” Joe FitzPatrick , Minister for Public Health in Scotland , said : “ The potential for convalescent plasma to aid those suffering from Covid-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I am delighted to see the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service and Scottish donors will be playing a key part . ''
“ I was there for about two hours though the donation was only just over 40 minutes .
It was the most worthwhile couple of hours I have spent in a very long time .
It makes a huge difference to think I could be helping people and that I am playing my part in the research .
“ I would say to anyone else who has recovered , not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I wasn ’ t that surprised when I got the call because I had heard this was being considered , and it was great to be able to get in and donate almost straight away.
“ I started to feel unwell on 29 February and by the next day I had a mild fever .
I was fortunate that I didn ’ t need to go into hospital and I was fully recovered two-and-a-half weeks later.
” Dr Rhys Clayton , a consultant anaesthetist at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust , was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to donate to the programme .
The 40-year-old , from Chorlton Manchester , said : “ I donated after recovering and it was straightforward .
It ’ s interesting to feel you are at the cutting edge of something to help .
”

Up to 5,000 severely ill coronavirus patients could soon be treated each week with plasma from those who have recovered from Covid-19 as part of a new approach to treating the virus.
The national randomised clinical trial will help to determine if plasma collected from donors who have recovered from the illness, known as “convalescent plasma”, is an effective treatment for patients who are severely unwell with the illness. Convalescent plasma was used as an effective treatment during the Sars outbreak in 2002.
Plasma from recovered Covid-19 patients can be transfused to patients who are struggling to produce their own antibodies against the virus. Senior ministers in India have already begun a trial with a handful of patients using the same method and said this week that plasma therapy showed “positive and encouraging results” on four coronavirus patients in Delhi, including one who was taken off a ventilator following the treatment.
In parallel to the UK’s trial, NHS Blood and Transport (NHSBT) is rapidly building up capacity to collect plasma so that it can deliver at a large scale, if transfusions are shown to help patients. NHSBT, which is working in collaboration with other NHS partners including the national blood services in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, will build up capacity in April and May so that it could collect up to 10,000 units a week, enough to treat 5,000 Covid-19 patients per week, with the final figure dependant on the trial results and hospital demand.
What is plasma? Plasma is the clear, straw-colored liquid portion of blood that remains after red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and other cellular components are removed. It is the single largest component of human blood, comprising about 55 percent, and contains water, salts, enzymes, antibodies and other proteins.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “The UK has world-leading life sciences and research sectors and I have every hope this treatment will be a major milestone in our fight against this disease. Hundreds of people are participating in national trials already for potential treatments and the scaling up of convalescent plasma collection means thousands could potentially benefit from it in the future.”
Plasma trialled
Officials say the UK is leading the world’s largest trials to find a treatment for Covid-19 with over 7,000 people so far involved testing a range of medicines. NHS blood services will now contact people who have recovered from Covid-19 infection to become potential donors and invite them to their centres across the UK.
Dr Gail Miflin, chief medical officer at NHSBT, said: “As well as continuing to collect enough blood throughout this outbreak, we are also heavily involved in the national research response including major trials of this potential treatment. We are rapidly building our capability to collect plasma so that we can quickly move into supplying hospitals at scale, should the proposed trial demonstrate patient benefit.”
Joe FitzPatrick, Minister for Public Health in Scotland, said: “The potential for convalescent plasma to aid those suffering from Covid-19 has to be confirmed through clinical trials. I am delighted to see the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service and Scottish donors will be playing a key part.”
‘It felt great to be helping people’
Michael Squire, 30, from West London, works for an auction house and is one of the first donors
“The donation could not have been simpler. The staff were lovely and they made it so easy. People were very welcoming and professional.
“I was there for about two hours though the donation was only just over 40 minutes. It was the most worthwhile couple of hours I have spent in a very long time. It makes a huge difference to think I could be helping people and that I am playing my part in the research.
“I would say to anyone else who has recovered, not to worry, it’s easy. I wasn’t that surprised when I got the call because I had heard this was being considered, and it was great to be able to get in and donate almost straight away.
“I started to feel unwell on 29 February and by the next day I had a mild fever. I was fortunate that I didn’t need to go into hospital and I was fully recovered two-and-a-half weeks later.”
Dr Rhys Clayton, a consultant anaesthetist at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, was also one of the first recovered people to donate to the programme. The 40-year-old, from Chorlton Manchester, said: “I donated after recovering and it was straightforward. It’s interesting to feel you are at the cutting edge of something to help.”


inews--2020-04-24--NHS plasma donation campaign may yet transform life for millions of people

NHS plasma donation campaign may yet transform life for millions of people A UK clinical trial will try to find out whether or not blood from recovered patients containing antibodies can save lives We lead iweekend with a good news story – albeit , like all trials for coronavirus treatments and vaccines , laced with caveats because of the novel nature of the disease .
A UK clinical trial will try to find out whether or not blood from recovered patients containing antibodies can save the lives of people severely ill with the virus .
The NHS is launching a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waited 28 days for the first people sick with Covid-19 in the UK to recover .
“ I am looking forward to seeing what happens next , ” said Dr Rhys Clayton , 40 , a consultant anaesthetist from Chorlton , Greater Manchester .
“ It felt nice to be giving something to help other people.
” Since a treatment is essential to us returning to normality , their gift may yet transform life for hundreds of millions of people around the world .
The day of reckoning has arrived .
I can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I will look like Hagrid after a rough year in captivity with Farc .
This morning , at about half past nine , when our youngest daughter announces her intention to retire for a nap by shrieking and emptying the village of bird life , I will take my place on a chair in the garden and await my fate .
My wife has been comparing kitchen scissors like a special forces operative inspects his guns .
( “ Have you been writing about me in the column again ?
” she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the whistle . )
So which hairstyle will it be ?
The “ Robocop ” ?
( Shaved front half of the dome . )
The “ Terry Nutkins ” ?
( Bald top , long sides and back . )
The “ Broken Clippers ” ?
( A deep and abandoned gouge . )
The “ Van Gogh ” ?
No updated byline picture will appear on Monday , unless things go horribly wrong and I instead feature on the news pages .

We lead iweekend with a good news story – albeit, like all trials for coronavirus treatments and vaccines, laced with caveats because of the novel nature of the disease.
A UK clinical trial will try to find out whether or not blood from recovered patients containing antibodies can save the lives of people severely ill with the virus.
The NHS is launching a major blood plasma donation campaign, having waited 28 days for the first people sick with Covid-19 in the UK to recover.
“I am looking forward to seeing what happens next,” said Dr Rhys Clayton, 40, a consultant anaesthetist from Chorlton, Greater Manchester. “It felt nice to be giving something to help other people.”
Since a treatment is essential to us returning to normality, their gift may yet transform life for hundreds of millions of people around the world.
Read More ‘If you’re skilled you can earn £5k per week’ — and other reasons why hairdressers love their jobs
The day of reckoning has arrived. I can hold out no longer. Another week and I will look like Hagrid after a rough year in captivity with Farc. This morning, at about half past nine, when our youngest daughter announces her intention to retire for a nap by shrieking and emptying the village of bird life, I will take my place on a chair in the garden and await my fate.
My wife has been comparing kitchen scissors like a special forces operative inspects his guns. (“Have you been writing about me in the column again?” she asked last week – her aunts blew the whistle.)
So which hairstyle will it be? The “Robocop”? (Shaved front half of the dome.) The “Terry Nutkins”? (Bald top, long sides and back.) The “Broken Clippers”? (A deep and abandoned gouge.) The “Van Gogh”?
No updated byline picture will appear on Monday, unless things go horribly wrong and I instead feature on the news pages.


inews--2020-04-24--Coronavirus in the UK: Vulnerable children face 'cocktail of secondary risks' in lockdown, Children'

Coronavirus in the UK: Vulnerable children face 'cocktail of secondary risks' in lockdown, Children's Commissioner warns

Coronavirus in the UK : Vulnerable children face 'cocktail of secondary risks ' in lockdown , Children 's Commissioner warns The Children 's Commissioner has said that vulnerable youngsters have been cut off from sources of support during lockdown Hundreds of thousands of vulnerable children are at heightened risk because they have been hidden from sight during the coronavirus lockdown , the Children ’ s Commissioner has warned .
Anne Longfield said that measures implemented to curb the spread of Covid-19 had cut youngsters off from sources of support and exposed them to a “ cocktail of secondary risks ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week by the Department for Education revealed that just 24,000 such children attended schools in England on Friday 17 April - about 5 per cent of the total number of vulnerable pupils .
Anne Longfield said that measures implemented to curb the spread of Covid-19 had cut youngsters off from sources of support ( Photo : Steven Paston/PA Wire ) To help councils identify children who could be at risk , the Children ’ s Commissioner has published “ local area profiles ” estimating the number of children in different vulnerable groups across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ example , it estimates that 10 per cent of children in Hackney , north London , live in households where domestic abuse is occurring .
Youngsters in Blackpool are meanwhile thirteen times more likely to be on child protection plans compared to those living in Westminster .
Ms Longfield said : “ While the Government ’ s decision to keep schools open for the most vulnerable children is welcome , sadly most of them are just not showing up .
“ They are most likely at home , often exposed to a cocktail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food in the house , sofa-surfing or cramped living conditions , neglect , or experiencing acute difficulties due to parental domestic violence , substance abuse and mental health problems.
” She added : “ I applaud the efforts of some schools and councils to ensure vulnerable children are still being visited by teachers or social workers .
I ’ d like to see this extend throughout the country.
” A Department for Education spokesperson said : `` Schools and early years settings remain open for vulnerable children , who are encouraged to attend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do so .
`` We thank social workers and everyone involved in keeping these children safe at this time for their hard work , including continuing to conduct risk assessments and home visits where needed . ''
The Government announced that some vulnerable children will be given free phone data to help them stay connected during lockdown .
The initiative was announced as part of a £12m package for children judged to be at greater risk of neglect , violence and exploitation because they have been forced to stay at home by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the DfE said young people in certain project areas would get unlimited data on their phones for three months to prevent them suffering from isolation .
Money will also be distributed to pay for social workers to support families at risk of domestic abuse , for children 's mental health support and to fund services for teenagers at risk of exploitation .
Children and families minister Vicky Ford said : “ I will always put the care and safety of vulnerable children first , especially at this time as they face unique @ @ @ @ @

Hundreds of thousands of vulnerable children are at heightened risk because they have been hidden from sight during the coronavirus lockdown, the Children’s Commissioner has warned.
Anne Longfield said that measures implemented to curb the spread of Covid-19 had cut youngsters off from sources of support and exposed them to a “cocktail of secondary risks”.
Vulnerable children are eligible to continue going to school during lockdown.
However, data published earlier this week by the Department for Education revealed that just 24,000 such children attended schools in England on Friday 17 April – about 5 per cent of the total number of vulnerable pupils.
Domestic abuse
To help councils identify children who could be at risk, the Children’s Commissioner has published “local area profiles” estimating the number of children in different vulnerable groups across every local authority in England.
For example, it estimates that 10 per cent of children in Hackney, north London, live in households where domestic abuse is occurring.
Youngsters in Blackpool are meanwhile thirteen times more likely to be on child protection plans compared to those living in Westminster.
Ms Longfield said: “While the Government’s decision to keep schools open for the most vulnerable children is welcome, sadly most of them are just not showing up.
‘Sofa-surfing’
“They are most likely at home, often exposed to a cocktail of secondary risks – a lack of food in the house, sofa-surfing or cramped living conditions, neglect, or experiencing acute difficulties due to parental domestic violence, substance abuse and mental health problems.”
She added: “I applaud the efforts of some schools and councils to ensure vulnerable children are still being visited by teachers or social workers. I’d like to see this extend throughout the country.”
A Department for Education spokesperson said: “Schools and early years settings remain open for vulnerable children, who are encouraged to attend where it is appropriate for them to do so.
“We thank social workers and everyone involved in keeping these children safe at this time for their hard work, including continuing to conduct risk assessments and home visits where needed.”
Read More: Coronavirus lockdown leaves families struggling to pay energy bills
Free data
The Government announced that some vulnerable children will be given free phone data to help them stay connected during lockdown.
The initiative was announced as part of a £12m package for children judged to be at greater risk of neglect, violence and exploitation because they have been forced to stay at home by the coronavirus.
To support children leaving care, the DfE said young people in certain project areas would get unlimited data on their phones for three months to prevent them suffering from isolation.
Money will also be distributed to pay for social workers to support families at risk of domestic abuse, for children’s mental health support and to fund services for teenagers at risk of exploitation.
Children and families minister Vicky Ford said: “I will always put the care and safety of vulnerable children first, especially at this time as they face unique challenges due to Covid-19.
“For many of these children, social distancing measures may present additional risks, whether from neglect or abuse at home or from strangers online.”


inews--2020-04-24--Coronavirus lockdown: Dementia patients unable to access vital support networks

Fears a lack of social contact during the lockdown could be causing a deterioration in their condition Families are contacting charity helplines saying the closure of day-care centres and visiting restrictions imposed at care homes are having a significant impact on their loved ones amid concerns over a secondary toll from the virus .
The Alzheimer ’ s Society has written to Matt Hancock calling for the Government to work with technology companies to ensure relatives of care-home residents are able to have proper contact with them , as well as ensuring that staff have proper protective equipment .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one with dementia faces the crisis alone and is increasing telephone support to families after having already made 14,000 welfare calls to services users in the last two months .
Enomwoyi Damali , who is living in Lewisham , south-east London , with her mother , Pearl Yearwood , 86 , who has Alzheimer ’ s , said her mother is missing access to her day-care centre and a voluntary befriender , and her two carers have been self-isolating .
She is also unable to visit her childhood friend , who now lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ The day centre visits are so important to mum .
In the moment , she enjoys them very much .
Mum ’ s dementia is changing day by day and week by week and I don ’ t know if , when things get back to normal , it will still be possible for her to enjoy those things again .
It ’ s a worrying time.
” Dr Hilda Hayo , chief executive and chief admiral nurse at Dementia UK , said its helpline is available for people finding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and after the lockdown .
She said : “ From the calls we are getting to our admiral nurse dementia helpline , we know that coronavirus has had a significant impact on the lives of families affected by dementia .
“ Day-care centres and support groups have closed down and visiting restrictions are in place across care settings .
This deprives people with dementia of vital stimulation which can help reduce symptoms such as confusion , restlessness and mood changes , as well as keep them connected to their family.
” Helen Foster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Society , said : “ We know that periods of isolation can be extremely damaging to people with dementia.
” There are around 850,000 people with dementia in the UK – a figure that is expected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040 .

People with dementia are being cut off from vital support networks by the Covid-19 pandemic amid fears a lack of social contact during the lockdown could be causing a deterioration in their condition.
Families are contacting charity helplines saying the closure of day-care centres and visiting restrictions imposed at care homes are having a significant impact on their loved ones amid concerns over a secondary toll from the virus.
The Alzheimer’s Society has written to Matt Hancock calling for the Government to work with technology companies to ensure relatives of care-home residents are able to have proper contact with them, as well as ensuring that staff have proper protective equipment.
It says it is determined to ensure no one with dementia faces the crisis alone and is increasing telephone support to families after having already made 14,000 welfare calls to services users in the last two months.
Fears for their wellbeing
Enomwoyi Damali, who is living in Lewisham, south-east London, with her mother, Pearl Yearwood, 86, who has Alzheimer’s, said her mother is missing access to her day-care centre and a voluntary befriender, and her two carers have been self-isolating. She is also unable to visit her childhood friend, who now lives in a care home.
Ms Damali said: “The day centre visits are so important to mum. In the moment, she enjoys them very much. Mum’s dementia is changing day by day and week by week and I don’t know if, when things get back to normal, it will still be possible for her to enjoy those things again. It’s a worrying time.”
Dr Hilda Hayo, chief executive and chief admiral nurse at Dementia UK, said its helpline is available for people finding it challenging to cope with dementia during and after the lockdown. She said: “From the calls we are getting to our admiral nurse dementia helpline, we know that coronavirus has had a significant impact on the lives of families affected by dementia.
“Day-care centres and support groups have closed down and visiting restrictions are in place across care settings. This deprives people with dementia of vital stimulation which can help reduce symptoms such as confusion, restlessness and mood changes, as well as keep them connected to their family.”
Helen Foster, director of operations at the Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We know that periods of isolation can be extremely damaging to people with dementia.”
There are around 850,000 people with dementia in the UK – a figure that is expected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040.