Carl’s experience
“I’m a postal delivery driver for Royal Mail. The coronavirus pandemic has certainly impacted my working life. With with the majority of the public being furloughed, parcels increased during lockdown. Initially, I had a lot of fear about the outbreak. This fear led to anxiety and stress. I didn’t want to work, I wanted to be at home with my family and not risk getting infected or passing the virus onto them.
I’m currently working 12 hours a day as voluntary overtime. I have chosen to do extra as my wife is unable to work due to the nature of her business. Over the course of time, with help from my GP, my anxiety issues have calmed down and I have focused on work.
A lot of customers really do appreciate the work we are doing. The Thursday clap for NHS and other key workers was a great feeling too. Me and my colleagues have worn fancy dress on our deliveries to boost morale and we’ve also raised £600 for a local dog rescue centre.
A trip away would mean a lot to me and my family because we have been on a rollercoaster ride like many other key workers. We have cancelled two trips away, including our main holiday to Cornwall. We really like the outdoors. It would be nice to sit in a chair with a cold beer watching a sunset in a different part of the country. Knowing that I’ve made a difference to someone during this pandemic. Hoping that the world will become a better place.
Covid-19 has brought out the best and worst in humanity. I would like us all to change for the better by taking time out of our day to talk to each other, whether it be friends, family or a stranger. A smile and a thank you do go a long way in making someone’s day.”
Jennie’s experience
“I’m a mental health practitioner, working in A&E. Recently, the people we’ve seen have been experiencing much more severe issues, many related to Covid-19. It has become much busier and we’re expecting this to continue with the after-effects of the pandemic and lockdown on people’s mental health. Some staff have been off sick, one with Covid-19 and pneumonia, so it’s been quite a stressful time. Luckily we’re a tight knit and supportive team.
It’s been an ongoing worry that I may bring the virus home to my husband and daughter. My husband has been very concerned for my safety and I think he could really do with some respite. It would mean a lot to get a family break. It would be lovely to spend quality time with my family somewhere new where we can get out into nature.
Public support and the Thursday night claps have been very emotional, especially driving home from a 12-hour shift. My hope for the future is a properly funded NHS, especially for mental health. I imagine a lot of people and children in particular will need support adjusting to the new normal.”
Please give what you can, donate to Project90 and make a big difference to those who need a break more than most right now.
