Government should increase Statutory Sick Pay to protect people who are shielding – MP

Responding to last night's announcement from the Government that people who have been permanently self-isolating during this crisis will no longer need to shield from August, local MP Tim Farron said: "Many people who have been shielding in the South Lakes since March had told me that they feel like they had been completely forgotten about by the Government.

"So last night's announcement is a welcome step forward.

"While shielding has been crucial for their physical health, we should not underestimate the enormous toll this has taken on their mental health and well-being.

"The Government must make sure that everything is in place to help all those who have been shielding as they begin to return towards a more normal life.

"Extremely vulnerable people who cannot return to work safely must continue to be supported through Statutory Sick Pay - and the Government must increase the rate significantly so they can afford to stay safe. We must ensure no one is left behind."