Clinically extremely vulnerable people are being advised to take note of changes to the Government's coronavirus guidance around 'shielding'.

The Government's initial advice for people falling into the shielding category was to stay at home as much as possible and keep interactions with people to a minumum until 31 July.

But it has now made some changes because transmission of coronavirus in the community has gone down.

These changes came into effect on Monday (6 July) and Rutland County Council is reminding shielding residents that they now:

· no longer need to socially distance from the people they live with

· can form a 'support bubble' with one other household if they live alone

The Government has confirmed that people who are shielding will still receive support with food, care and medicine deliveries up to 31 July.

After this date Government food parcels will stop and people are advised to register for a priority supermarket delivery.

This will only be allocated to those who have registered online by next Friday, 17 July.

Coun Alan Walters, Rutland County Council's cabinet member for adult social care and health, said: "The Government has indicated that it will soon pause shielding, while recognising the need to keep this under regular review.

"We have been working closely with local communities and volunteer groups to make sure individuals and families who are shielding get the support they need.

"From 1 August, people who have been shielding will be able to visit shops and return to work.

"However, it is still important that they continue to observe social distancing of two meters, avoid crowded spaces and always practise good, frequent hand washing.

"We know that many of these people will not have left home for several months.

"It is understandable if they feel worried or anxious but our social care teams are standing by to help."

From 1 August, the Government will pause shielding unless the transmission of coronavirus in the community starts to rise significantly.

If there is a significant increase in risk levels the Government will again write to all patients who are clinically extremely vulnerable setting out any changes to advice before they are made.

Shielding advice may also be revised in Rutland in the event of a local outbreak, such as the one currently being addressed in Leicester.

Ahead of further changes to shielding guidance, Rutland County Council's RISE team will be making contact with all those who are currently receiving Government food parcels, to check that they have registered for a priority supermarket delivery slot or have plans in place for the end of July.

The council also continues to operate a dedicated coronavirus helpline for anyone who has questions or concerns about the virus, or needs urgent assistance.

Anyone in Rutland who is shielding and would like to speak to someone about support or the latest changes to government guidance can call 01572 729603.

The helpline operates from 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 4.30pm on Friday.