High Peak MP says NHS would be overwhelmed by Covid cases without lockdown

England is going back into lockdown this week and while nobody wants to see restrictions put in place, there are important reasons why the Government is acting now
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Firstly, infection rates are rising sharply among older and more vulnerable people, not just the students and the young.

Secondly, the rates of cases are now rising quickly across the country and targeted action is needed everywhere.

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Finally, the number of hospitalised patients is already more than half the peak we saw earlier in the year and accelerating.

Robert Largan, MP for High PeakRobert Largan, MP for High Peak
Robert Largan, MP for High Peak

The NHS will be overwhelmed if no action is taken, causing deaths in both covid and non-covid patients.

Throughout the crisis, I have been pushing the Government to increase NHS capacity.

But even if capacity doubled, it still would not be enough to prevent the NHS from being overwhelmed if the virus was left unchecked.

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We will have to stay at home, leaving for specific reasons such as education, work, exercise, medical appointments, and caring for a child or a vulnerable person.

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All non-essential shops and the hospitality sector will be closed except for takeaway services.

People do not need to stock up as essential shops like supermarkets will remain open.

There are important differences between now and the March lockdown such as schools, colleges and universities remaining open and clinically vulnerable people not having to shield.

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People should also continue to use the NHS to get their scans, appointments, and treatments.

The furlough scheme has also been extended to the end of November and £1.1 billion will be provided to local authorities to support local businesses.

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I know that this will be a very difficult time for many of us and I’ve talked several times about my fears that the pandemic is having on people’s mental health.

It’s important to remember that there is help out there and you can call Samaritans at any time on 116123.

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We all want to see these restrictions eased as soon as possible and that means we must stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives.

By working together, we will get through this.

Robert Largan is MP for High Peak.