Pandemic to Petrol by Ross Lannon

2021 has certainly been a rollercoaster of a year (and it’s not over yet!).  Recently, I’ve been doing some self-reflecting and I can’t help but feel like many voices within the disabled community have been drowned out.  I don’t want this to be a negative post because, quite frankly, I think we’ve all been through enough!  But I think it’s important we still raise some awareness for certain issues.

Goodbye to Face Coverings?

From COVID concerns to the UK fuel crisis – there just seems to be a never-ending stream of events affecting those who are most vulnerable.  It was bad enough when we couldn’t get loo roll…let alone not having enough fuel for our carers to come to work!  Whilst many people were excited a few months ago by the thought of the UK’s so called “Freedom Day” – aka the removal of face masks and social distancing – I for one was not.  How am I going to hide my rude facial expressions now?!

Pros and Cons

Over the course of this pandemic I have been fairly vocal about my feelings, in both a positive and negative light.  I’ve done several TV and radio interviews, as well as writing many articles about the effects of the pandemic on those with disabilities.  Reflecting on some of the positive outcomes from the past 18 months, it’s been great to see more inclusion and accessibility from different businesses.  For example, an increase in opportunities to work from home, which of course benefits people with chronic illnesses and physical disabilities.  Many food outlets that maybe weren’t so accessible before have also continued to offer delivery and takeaway services which has been really helpful for those of us with limited mobility.

Looking Out for Each Other

Although I am frustrated that it has taken a worldwide pandemic to implement these changes, I am hopeful that certain measures will continue to remain in place now that things seem to be going back to “normal” – whatever that may be!  I also hope that we can be more mindful when it comes to those who are most vulnerable. Let’s prioritise essentials for our keyworkers and not stockpile fuel in jerry cans, hey?  I for one will continue wearing my face mask in public places for the foreseeable future and you shan’t be seeing me in any nightclubs yet!  I just hope we can find a balance between living our lives, but also respecting each other’s boundaries.

Do you have a disability? If so, what are your thoughts on the Pandemic’s affect on the disabled community?