Give us clarity over next Covid-19 steps and people will comply - Yorkshire Post Letters

The national nature of the current lockdown measures and the fact there is a clear review date arguably mean the measures be regarded as fair – and the target date gives focus to the efforts of us all, as we look to the next steps.

It would seem that we are to move back into restrictions following a tier structure. Clearly some measures are still necessary and there is evidence that prior to this lockdown the tiered approach was starting to work.

I strongly believe if the return to tiers is well managed then compliance will be quite high, with the consequent reduction in infection rates.

My key concern is what provision is to be put in place for regular review dates and what are the criteria for moving down (or up) the tiers? Clarity and excellent communication on these facts will, I believe, acknowledge our Covid fatigue, bolster our flagging morale, focus our efforts and engender confidence that the Government and local authorities working together have a clear strategy to move the country forward.

On the other hand, open- ended and vague dates, coupled with gloomy prognostications, and references to “hard months ahead”and undelivered promises serve only to deepen the sense of hopelessness and apathy that can all too readily develop, even in the face of the current positive news on vaccine developments.

My fear is without very clear and regular reviews and updates on progress and the next steps forward clearly communicated, a perception could develop in a particular area of being locked up (or down) and the key being thrown away, which is most definitely not conducive to positive attitudes and responses to limitations being placed on so many aspects of our lives.

An additional issue here is that far from the early promises of very locally and tightly targeted responses to alterations in infection rates, the approach now seems to be broad brush and regional. This can readily lead to feelings of unfairness and consequent less willingness to comply with restrictions.

During 2020, Covid has stolen so much from so many. Now there seems to be some light towards the end of the very long tunnel.

The people charged with guiding us from the deep darkness of 2020 into what we trust will be the brighter times of 2021 need to work to deliver carefully thought through, well planned, clearly communicated, ultimately successful ways forward, thus earning the support of us all.

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