christmas test magazine V5

Helen Parker
I have been asked to reflect on the Covid 19 lock down from my perspective as Deputy
Mayor, also as a Healthcare professional working in the Holsworthy area.
My ability to continue in both roles was tested from the beginning of lockdown, as by the
end of March I had received a dreaded shielding letter. This shocked and surprised me
even though I was fully aware of my personal health challenges. I didn’t think my illness
would be thought serious. I was well and working fully within my roles, however the NHS
had other ideas.
Shielding meant staying at home, normal life had changed. I still needed however to fulfil
my healthcare role in an efficient productive way to support my patients and colleagues.
Luckily, I have a managerial role as well as being a clinician. Thanks to the wonders of
technology & a lot of help from James my son, we were able to establish a fully functioning
office in my home with full internet access to all the systems necessary for me to
undertake a coordinating role for our local community nurses. I was able to contact
patients, guide & support my colleagues who were providing nursing care and support for
people in their own homes. I must pay tribute to all my colleagues who have worked
through out the pandemic out in the Community. They have all worked extremely hard and
selflessly to provide care for our patients at a time of great stress and fear for all.
Normal Council business went on the back boiler for a while, we all adjusted to our new
circumstances. Holsworthy Town Council is comprised of 12 elected community spirited
people of different ages and backgrounds, unfortunately I was not the only councillor who
needed to isolate at this time. Vanessa and Kerry continued in their roles as Clerk &
Assistant Clerk dealing with the day to day management of the office and establishing a
new way for the council to function, hold meetings and make decisions.
The wonder of Zoom was introduced to us, great when we can all get on, and I admit I think
our Zoom skills are improving.
The usual role of Mayor and Deputy Mayor to represent Holsworthy at Civic Functions both
Local and in North Devon has obviously stopped.
I would also like to pay tribute to all the volunteers who have supported people whether
they are NHS volunteers or our local Covid group. These many people have enabled the
vulnerable, elderly and shielding people to stay safe & well.
We must look forward to better days and normality.
We face challenges ahead, but please stay safe.
This time will pass.