Staffordshire residents are being advised to get creative ahead of this weekend as many people won’t be able to celebrate Mother’s Day as normal.
Mothering Sunday will have to look a lot different this year for many families as restaurants, cafes and leisure facilities are closed and indoor household mixing is not permitted.
However, the county council is pointing out there are still many great ways to celebrate the day without putting your family at risk.
They are also urging people who are permitted to visit their mums to make sure they get a rapid Covid test. If you live with your mum and need to leave the home or she’s part of your support bubble or you’re her nominated carer, people should be getting tested regularly.
On Sunday people can meet their mum outdoors to socialise, which could include a picnic. However, residents are reminded the ‘Stay at Home’ order remains in place until the 29 March, meaning people should stay local.
Dr Johnny McMahon Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing, said:
“This Sunday will be a different experience for many families across Staffordshire and is another sacrifice many of us will have to make.
“However, these efforts are well worth it to keep our families safe whilst we are still in lockdown and the virus remains a significant threat.
“With a bit of creative thinking, people will still be able to make a fuss of their mums and make it a memorable and safe day.”
Utilising technology to sort a family video call out, getting crafty in terms of creating a bespoke card or watching some of your favourite TV or music concerts together online. There are hundreds of digital gift ideas available – from immersive cultural experiences to cooking demonstrations.
Johnny added:
“If you are regularly visiting your mum or other family members, have returned to school or have to leave home to go to work – getting tested regularly should already be part of your routine.
“Getting a Covid test if you are out and about is vital to keep case rates down, not just on special occasions like Mother’s Day.”
Residents are now able to walk in to one of our community testing sites to get a rapid Covid-19 test. Walk ins are subject to availability at each individual site – to secure a slot, booking on our community testing sites page is still recommended.
There will also be pop-up community testing sites at various locations supporting the above.
People with symptoms or those who have been asked to self-isolate as a close contact of a Covid case should not attend.
For further information on the latest national lockdown rules in place visit: www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home
