Why Boris Johnson’s July 19th ‘freedom day’ is terrifying for thousands across Greater Manchester

Yesterday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that the remaining Covid-19 restrictions currently in place here in Manchester and the rest of the country will be lifted later this month.

During the briefing, Johnson said that the current restrictions – such as having to wear masks in enclosed public settings and abiding by the one metre social distancing rule – will definitely be coming to an end on July 19th.

He also said that, as of the 19th, people won’t be expected to work from home and that all businesses will be allowed to reopen, including nightclubs and music venues.

Andrew Parsons / Flickr

While no proof of a Covid test or vaccine will be required for entry to these venues, Johnson did explain that the virus will still be monitored through the track and trace app, and those who test positive will still have to self-isolate.

Following the announcement, millions of people across the UK quickly rejoiced at the first glimpse of real normality since the start of pandemic last year – however, the news won’t have been so comforting for others.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid projected that within just weeks of the lifting of restrictions, infection rates could potentially surge to around 100,000 per day. 

And, while Covid has proven to be mild for the majority of the population, this statistic can be terrifying for those who are elderly or living with existing health conditions that make them clinically vulnerable.

@elizabeth_mcdaniel / Unsplash

It’s no secret that Covid is far more serious for those over the age of sixty and those who are already managing underlying or existing health issues – health.org found that six out of ten people to die from Covid were disabled.

Here in Greater Manchester, 521,314 people are disabled or living with a debilitating illness of some sort – that’s 19% of the population, according to the Greater Manchester Coalition of Disabled People (GMCDP).

So, while the lack of face masks and social distancing may sound idyllic to you, it’s worth bearing in mind that, to 19% of Greater Manchester’s population, it could bring with it devastating consequences.