The Prime Minister has announced a four-week delay to the lifting of all restrictions in England beyond 21 June. In response, Henny Braund MBE, Chief Executive of Anthony Nolan, says:
‘It’s right the Prime Minister has delayed easing restrictions as Covid-19 cases are increasing. This will help to protect blood cancer patients, including stem cell transplant patients, who are less likely to be protected by Covid-19 vaccines and are amongst the most at risk from the pandemic. Up to 110,000 people are planning to shield indefinitely to keep themselves safe.
‘However, I’m deeply concerned that vital access to government support has not been addressed. The shielding programme and priority supermarket delivery schemes have ended, and the furlough scheme is due to end in September. These schemes are essential to supporting blood cancer patients.
‘We are urging the Prime Minister to ensure that there is support in place to stop anyone with blood cancer or a blood disorder from being left behind. This means providing patients with ongoing access to financial assistance, mental health support and investing in research for effective vaccines and Covid-19 treatments.’