Living La Vida Lockdown
During the coronavirus lockdown I took advantage of my daily bike ride to photograph folk who were living in London during that time. This archive is my tribute to people’s upbeat spirit in those troubled times.
Wandsworth Common
Ground floor:
What I miss the most is physical contact, be it a handshake, a hug or a comforting pat on the shoulder. I started this project 3 days after the birth of my 4th grandchild but I haven't yet been able to pick him up and give him a cuddle.
As I reflect on how the world is I have to accept that I was part of the generation who helped create what we have today; a world where humans quite simply cannot touch each other. I grew up in a golden age whereby incomes were steadily rising, I was not asked to fight for my country, it was possible to fly to America for £78, and I always knew I could have more. I rarely thought about what it cost to make me happy.
My grandsons have played no part in contributing to the way the world is today. In twenty years time I hope they will be making better choices for this wonderful planet than I have made. Meantime I will do what I can to make their world a better place.
Ist floor:
There’s so much concern, worry and pressure in the world at the moment. We all also have our personal perspectives on our own daily lives and how things have changed, in some cases unexpectedly for the better. As a dad, I’m seeing more of my children than I ever have and they see more of me. Just having them around me so much more brings an absolute, simple sense of joy. It’s given me and the children us a renewed sense of connection through home schooling, playing, not being in a rush, while working from home and resisting the temptation to get outside in this beautiful spring weather onto Wandsworth Common more than we’re meant to. It’s fitting how this picture of all of us who live in this building shows everyone looking so relaxed and at ease. I’ll always look back on this time with despair that the world got itself into this situation, but with personal happy memories of how it let us concentrate on the most important things. And no matter how long the lockdown, the old Latin phrase ‘Temporis ars medicina fere est’ comes to mind – time is a great healer.
Top floor:
The overriding experience so far has frankly been a sense of how lucky we are. We live in a comfortable flat in a beautiful area and even when supplies were short in some shops we were able to get everything we need. I work for a retailer so have been furloughed, but I’ve been able to refocus on things I’d previously not had enough time for like my music. Nicky is still working but even then the time gained from not having to commute is being put to good use working on crafts or exercising on the common. And of course we have each other and are not having to face lockdown alone. There’s an acute awareness that many others have it much worse and so we’re thankful for our relative comfort.
We know friends and family who have had the disease and thankfully recovered. Between illness and the economy there’s a lot to be worried about and a lot that’s beyond our control. But the positives can be found in the ability to appreciate what we have, to care for our own, as a foundation. “Let us cultivate our garden”.
East Sheen
In lockdown we kept working but chose to shorten our hours and close on Sundays to reduce the pressure on our staff.
A forced day off has been liberating. I walk, read, cook and reflect. I’m mindful.
A day to myself is a simple luxury I’ve overlooked for 11 years. Through the necessity to adapt comes an appreciation of being able to stop.
Taking time back for myself without guilt has reminded me to live and made me more appreciative of the job I love, and the city I see as home.
Victoria Park
The past few months have thrown up a real mix of emotions, from the disappointment of being furloughed and living with the uncertainty of whether I’ll have a job to go back to, to the unexpected joy of spending more time with my two year old son at such a crucial time of his life. I’d normally never have gotten the opportunity to do that in normal circumstances.
However, the most striking emotion is pride at how my wife has managed and navigated through the pandemic. She’s an ITU nurse, who has literally faced the horror head on every time she goes to work, but never flinched or hesitated at what she’s walked into.
I always admired what she did for a living, but this last few months has provided me with a real insight into her mental strength, bravery, dedication and natural ability to put others needs before hers. How I feel about my wife should be how the country feels about our wonderful and resilient NHS, who have shown how unique, special and valuable it is to our country.
Balham
For us lockdown has represented an enforced pause in our usually chaotic London lives; no option but to rest and recharge before we welcomed new life into a world we sometimes don’t recognise.
As first time parents we’ve experienced a heightened sense of the parental instinct to protect - survival mode kicked in, a need to protect the new life blossoming amongst fear and uncertainty, as those around us panic bought and the world prepared to lockdown.
The gravity of the situation really hit when we came to the surreal realisation that everywhere you’ve ever been - no matter how near or far - is going through the same thing as us; battling the same virus, facing the same restrictions, experiencing the same emotions. In that sense, whilst we are further from our loved ones, we are closer together as a species than we have ever been before.
Peckham Rye
We were prepared for lockdown to a certain extent……….
My mum, Esmé, has lived with me since 2016 after a stroke - so our long term independence has adapted to change. We both own a deep resilience, in part because we have lost three close lives to suicide, in past times that linger.
My freelance work has continued in home isolation, and I’m not bad with my own presence. Esmé’s lockdown life has been more extreme as her activities have ceased, yet she still reads copiously. How she feels about it all depends on the day. It can be “OK really” or “F*** that, I’m going out - I feel like a trapped bird”
Balham
I have Lyme Disease which affects my immunity and makes me more susceptible to Covid-19. Pre-lockdown I was in the throes of training and fundraising for an upcoming expedition to the South Pole (www.antarcticaruban.com) to raise awareness and funds for a charity called Lyme Aid UK.
When the lockdown was announced and my polar training plans had to be cancelled, I decided to get creative with my training instead of focusing on the disappointments and in the end, it has been a thoroughly positive and wonderful experience!
Like so many others I’ve taken up gardening and caring for indoor plants during lockdown. I’ve found it’s been such a powerful elixir in combatting my anxiety. There’s something so satisfying about taking a seedling or a young plant and caring for them, getting to watch as they grow and flourish.
I’m so thankful that I’ve been able to curate a green space in my home, where I can come at the end of the day, laydown my burdens and allow peace to flood my heart and mind.
Norbury
Being a postie in lockdown has been a blessing as the routine of my daily life has remained the same. What has changed is the increased workload and the miles I walk each day. In this age of digital communications, video meetings and on-line shopping, the postal system has been vitally important to deliver more than essentials; cards of caring, love letters and birthday balloons…etc.
Suddenly the streets were weirdly and serenely quiet. It took a while to adjust to people side stepping me and not being able to hug anyone.
I enjoy my job and have felt privileged to be out working in shorts and shades all day for weeks whilst most of the country have been confined to their homes. I have been able to take advantage of the glorious weather and hope that I also brought some sunshine to the public I served.
At home I have been blessed to be living with fabulous housemates where laughter, discussions and walks together have made great memories.
Battersea
At the end of 2019 I quit my job and started a pet portrait business. Despite a good start, when covid-19 hit the commissions dried up, along with my confidence.
I had no job, no money, and was getting depressed. I needed a focus. I started doing pet portrait gifts for NHS workers, the messages I have received from them have been humbling, emotional and inspiring. We can make a difference.
I’ve learnt to stay strong, don’t let the monster in, enjoy the good days, and talk to people, a conversation can inspire inspiration.
(Instagram: @digital4dawgs)
Stoke Newington
The realisation of my own privilege hit me like a tonne of bricks. I always thought I understood race because my dad was a black immigrant, although he never discussed it with me when I was growing up. I think he knew that his white-passing children would never be subjected to the same outright racism and abuse that he received. His avoidance of talking about his experiences was his way of shielding me from the horrors that he endured. I know nothing about his childhood in East London, his school days, or his early career, and I feel so ignorant that I know so little about my dad's past.
I tried asking my dad what his experience of being a black man in the police force was like. My dad joined the Metropolitan Police in 1986 at the height of the race riots in Britain - he felt compelled to show black people that the police were not the enemy. Not long after starting at Hendon Police College, he realised that the black men viewed him as a traitor, and the police still saw him as a Nigger. I knew vaguely that his career was blocked from progression, but he never elaborated on the microaggressions, casual and overt racism that is rife within the Met.
I genuinely thought I understood racism because of my own experiences, such as families at my primary school picking and spitting on me because of my 'muddy skin', and how aware I am of being in the minority whenever I venture outside of London. I'm ashamed by how long it's taken me to recognise that I was blind to it. Ashamed that I didn't learn about systemic racism or colonial history in school. Ashamed at my own government's bigoted views on race, and my Prime Minister's adoration of Winston Churchill. I'm so, so ashamed that I haven't stood up and fought for Black Lives Matter until now.
But I'm hopeful for the future, and for the change that may come from the protests. I'm so fucking proud of my generation for coming together and fighting for what's right, even with the legitimate risks of coronavirus. We're putting social justice before social distancing - we're sick of feeling overpoliced and underprotected, and we're hungry for change. But we can't forget that we're fighting an uphill battle - while we've seen positive actions taken as a result of the ongoing protests, we should remember that the Nashville Sit-ins took 98 days, the Freedom Riders 8 months, and the Montgomery Bus Boycott lasted for over a year. We've got to keep this momentum going.
Clapham Common
Wow! COVID-19 sure hit us with a bang and has left its mark in many ways, but, with many positives too. The slower pace of life, quality time with family, the space to reflect, the grounding quality of nature, the community spirit, the gratitude for the things that matter, the joy in the small things, the technology to be able to stay in touch with friends and family and realise how they, and human connection are so important.
I returned to my job as a pharmacist just after lockdown after some time off for anxiety. My role has given me a renewed sense of purpose and I feel inspired and proud to be part of a new NHS; one that is embracing technology and recognising the importance of mental health. It truly deserves the joyous celebration bought about by the ‘Clap for Carers’ nights.
Barnet
Moreover, I am truly humbled by those keyworkers who have braved and lost their lives to COVID-19. Let’s never forget the sacrifices that they and their families have made as we hopefully return to a new, better and kinder ‘normal’
Wandsworth
We decided to take the first photo without my husband because, for the bulk of lockdown, he was absent. He works in 2 hospitals and when they were busy rearranging how they did things, and making sure staff were protected whilst coping with the large numbers that initially came through, he worked around the clock.
The last few weeks have been very different as the number of Covid cases have reduced, he's been able to come home at more regular hours. Pre-lockdown he always left early to make sure he was back in time to say goodnight to our youngest, and for the last few weeks he's normally managed to do that again.
This time hasn't all been bad, my 3 children have had to step up; the older 2 help cook and clean and even teach the little one. For my youngest, she's reached 2 big milestones over lockdown; loosing 2 teeth and learning to ride her bicycle. Now 2 are back at school, and the house seems very quiet without them.
Wimbledon
Lockdown has made a huge difference to our family life. It's allowed us to spend more time together as a family, and for me (Joe) in particular, to be around much more to watch our beautiful daughter Francesca grow and develop.
Food is a huge part of our life, inherited from Cosima's Italian family and we've enjoyed introducing Francesca to new foods and eating together every day, something we could not do previously.
Prior to lockdown it was all too easy to become consumed in the working week, and to prioritise that over all else. Lockdown has provided a timely intervention, and reminder, that children change all too quickly and without realising we can miss out on this.
Lee Green
This Covid 19 pandemic was a big surprise to us as a family, I was very ill for a while with it. The one good thing that has come from it, is that it brought us closer as a family and for that I am truly grateful.
Hanwell
When I first heard about the Helping Dress Medics scrub making project I volunteered to get involved, along with many other costume professionals who couldn’t work during lockdown.
Helping Dress Medics has produced in excess of 8,500 sets of scrubs, 220 made and donated here in West London.
I enlisted friends, neighbours and anyone who was willing to sew through postings on our community fb page. My aim was to help locally and the scrubs we have made here have gone to Hanwell Health Centre, GP Practices all over Ealing, The Epilepsy Society, Meadow House Hospice, Northwick Park Speech Therapy team and individual nurses.
Being so busy has distracted me from dwelling on the crisis around us and it’s been good to be doing something that makes a difference.
One of the most positive aspects has been working with all the other makers and medics I’ve met over the past 8 weeks, while also being part of a much larger virtual team.
https://uk.gofundme.com/f/helping-dress-medics
Belsize Park
Lockdown has been a bugger, hasn’t it? Not being able to access the gym, the nail bar, the massage salon and the dog groomer! So I’ve had to step up to the plate, or rather the front step. Poor old Bruno won’t be entering Crufts any time soon!
When I had the Covid six weeks ago I had two nurses – the bossy one who made me watch videos, sit up, and consume endless medicinal snacks and drinks (thanks Rima). And this gentle one, Lana, who got me back on my feet with some lovely yoga and breathing exercises. Bless ’em both!
Sutton
Lockdown has been a strange time for most of us, and for me it has kept me most of the time at home on my own. I live alone and not seeing people or having physical touch has affected my mental health more than I thought. I am passionate about mental health especially within my work ( I head up a mental health support group). I have seen the increase of anxiety, stress and depression in myself and in others.
One of my saving graces (other than virtual contact with friends and family) has been my work; I work for the London Fire Brigade in their emergency control room. We currently have to sit apart, but for those 12 hours I am in another place still surrounded by people I know, and still able to do what I love, help people.
Lockdown has been hard in many ways but we know that we are amongst the lucky ones who have been able to keep working at home. An upside has been the time saved not travelling to work and I expect to be doing more home working in future. We've all found ways to amuse ourselves using the excess free time and will certainly be building some of the new routines into the "new normal" that emerges when we get to the other side of this. We miss being able to hug our parents who are on hard isolation in their homes
Fulham
They say that every change holds an opportunity, and it's up to us how we use it. The current situation showed us how connected we all are, how our actions affect others, and how important human connections are. It made me appreciate the people I have in my life even more.
I believe this situation has given us a chance to rethink what truly matters, stop wasting time on things that don't, and to be more mindful about how we treat each other and our environment. I hope we'll remember all this after the lockdown is over.
Stockwell
We were due to hold a big celebration in May for an important anniversary but the pandemic stopped that.
We both work with people who are already in need due to social inequalities deepened by 10 years of austerity from our government and plunged into desperate need by the pandemic.
So our days are very full in protecting human rights, working harder than ever and dismayed by the catastrophic impact of COVID-19
We hope that the public who are now seeing the deadly impact of inequality will speak up, together for a society that rejects a system that is simply not working.
Fulham
I miss my family and friends and can't wait to see them again, but somehow I feel that this crisis brought us closer. We are not rushing anywhere and have more time to call each other, to check in and see how the other person is doing, and to have meaningful conversations. I'm very lucky to have so many amazing and supportive people in my life and know I can't take them for granted.
What I miss most about this lockdown is just the normality of socialising, being able to go into a restaurant and change your order ,(unhappy emoji face ) it’s just deliveroo for one , you can’t even go boxing and have light banter with the lads because they could infect a loved one, or even being able to sit in the barber’s leather spinning chair with the cape like you’re superman.
But on the other hand this lockdown has made me appreciate small things, like speaking with my family members that I would only have a conversation with at Christmas for a few hours, even doing homework with my daughter explaining to her that the most important thing is giving your homework a structure that works well with yourself (digestible information ) or looking within myself in trying to learn new things ie filming, script writing , reading new books and things I have put off for months or even years.
Putney
I am 83, and a widow. I have a wonderful family and friends and they help to fill the void - the highlight of my week is cooking Sunday lunch for them. Not so, since lockdown.
On the negative side there is no-one to hug, and in our family there is a lot of hugging.
On the positive side I have time to smell the roses and strangely enough it makes me think back to the war. That was a time for neighbours to help one another, and I remember that. But families were often separated for long periods with no way of keeping in touch.
Waterloo
1st ever picture of the three of us. A rare picture of love during these hard times. The world has come to a stop, but our bond together has been unbreakable
This time around we have an app in the street where I live, and what a wonderful way that is to keep in touch. Also, I sit in my front porch and I love it when people stop by for a chat. And what about email and Zoom? All help to make me feel less isolated. Not only do I hear the birds, but my grandchildren and children telephone or WhatsApp all the time.
So there you have it - a national emergency again in my lifetime, but with the difference that technology brings - my days are full and although I am self isolating I feel very much in touch with my loving internet family. I am very lucky.
I have learnt to appreciate my mother’s role in making sure the house is clean and tidy and have been actively cleaning, gardening and cooking (also great for just doing something). As a family we have become closer, doing family quizzes, bingo, watching films together. Something we wouldn’t usually do as we are all so busy with our own social lives.
It has been a time of bonding and going back to basics.
Newham
I work in a Primary School by day organising activities for pupils before school and after school and keeping families updated with events in the local community. Evening, weekends and school holidays I get the local community active and I get involved in volunteering.I am a running coach and I also teach boxfit, aqua, yoga, pilates and hula fit. During lockdown I am still doing all of these things but in a different way.
Thanks to Chess in Schools and Communities and ChessKid our pupils are able to continue with learning and playing chess. I send regular updates to families signposting them to online resources and activities such ie Move Crew which shows how easy it is to get active at home. I have spent a few days with the local council as a delivery volunteer, dropping off essential packages to vulnerable people and families that are isolating.In place of coaching running I have introduced members of my running club East End Road Runners to yoga via zoom.
Clapham
I did work as a Costume Supervisor for theatre, but the show I was on was cancelled with no notice.
As soon as I heard of the emergency demand for scrubs I knew I could help, and the action has helped me.
We've made around 650 scrubs for Hospitals, Care Homes, GPs and Hospices in South London.
I’ve been so grateful for the fleeting doorstep conversations with our volunteers. We’re all scared for the future of our creative industries but the way we’ve adapted and come together gives me hope
Abbey Wood
When lockdown kicked in I started planting seeds, as so many people have. Not just plants, but seeds of thought.
I'm living in a transitional home and phase at the moment, so time to reflect & evaluate has been much appreciated. I've been decorating and recycling pallets into garden furniture. Turning the thistle patch into a garden.
My plan is to build a green home, with an ocean view.Somewhere to design and create works of art.
I will reboot my journey, find time to grow and dream big !
Clerkenwell
What were once simple outings to the Grocery Store have now become massive Expeditions. Got gloves? Check. Wait…where’s my mask? We barely make it outside of our building before one of us mutters, “Ugg, I have 2 left-handed gloves; I am going back up.” Finally outside, the beautiful sound of chirping birds engulfs us. Has anyone else ever heard the birds so loud in London or seen the sky so clear? I smile to myself, which is truly a smile to myself—because it’s from underneath my mask where no-one can see it.
Battersea
Being at home 24/7 with your kids, you learn a lot about them, yourself and your thresholds!
Home schooling has been incredibly challenging and even hair- raising at times, but it has given us a unique insight into another side of our kids we would not have fully understood had it not been for lockdown.
It has been a real eye opener getting to know our kids in a different and perhaps a deeper way. Understanding their strengths and insecurities, how they process information and cope with lockdown will hopefully make us better parents, but I guess only time will tell on that one!
Clapham Junction
Tooting
Throughout this crazy coronavirus time, I’ve split up with my then girlfriend for 3 years, feels like the best thing I ever done, I can breath again.
I also have had the coronavirus and it really had a detrimental effect to my emotional and physical well-being, along side recently becoming single!
Some of us are built to fight and some are not. I am mentally and physically strong because I believe in me no matter what is happening in my life, because my life is to give and share with outward bound; we are all humanitarians. Sharing my love/ education and morals makes me a stronger human.
For me, as a practitioner and personally, Lockdown has been about three things - connection, meaning and purpose - finding meaning in small pleasures, finding novel and creative ways of connecting to others, and having a purposeful role to play.
I am still getting to grips with all the social media platforms and testing out my skills and releasing YouTube hula fit tutorials, learning and having fun along the way. As we start to ease our way out of lockdown the way we learn and the way we get active will change. My hope is for a happy medium between online and face to face
We approach an intersection and stare at the crosswalk button. To touch it or not to touch it? I can almost visualize the squirming germs. Quickly, our eyes dart between the street, to the button, then to each other as we calculate the risk of being hit by a car, versus COVID-19. Nevermind. There’s barely any traffic and we’re wearing the gloves. He touches it. 30 seconds later, I exclaim, "Honey, Don’t rub your eye!!!!" “Why?" "You just touched the crosswalk button!!!!!" Ahhhhhhhh!
My family has been coping ok since lockdown although my mum and grandma definitely do miss being able to get outside the house, however I am very much a homebody so everything I enjoy doing is already here. I’ve been painting and drawing which is a hobby I stopped in sixth form and now I finally get a chance to focus on it. Cooking is something else I’ve been enjoying more lately even though it’s been hard to find most of the ingredients nowadays.
South Norwood
One issue we’re having is trying to cope with three of us sharing a small space so that aspect of lockdown can be stressful at times, on the other hand I would rather us stay on lockdown until it is safe to go out instead of risking our health. I see this time as an opportunity for us all to work on skills we want to improve and spend time relaxing with our families while we have the chance since this virus has reminded us all of our mortality.
Covid 19 has brought some family quality time to our lives. Our daughter is loving every single minute of having mum and dad around all day long. It’s wonderfully rewarding to see her evolving right in front of our eyes and not through nursery reports.
For us skills from childhood have been rescued as sewing, recycling materials to build toys, old recipes. Technology has revealed itself as a friend and as an enemy: we are overloaded with content not always truly informative but we have been able to reach out with our church, friends, family overseas...
In the bright side of this experience, there are a good bunch of lunches ate in the garden under the spring sun, musical evenings with the speaker out in the back garden, walks around the garden exploring how life carries on in urban nature with flowers blooming and bees buzzing.
Conscious of what is a sharp impact on our individual rights, we are also looking forward to seeing changes for good in the future as the best outcome for such personal sacrifice: more preventive medicine in practice all across the GP surgeries network, cleaner public spaces,...
To end in a positive tone, we love how we are enjoying simple things in life more than ever at home.
Wimbledon
A few years ago, my son, Thomas, asked for a 3D printer for his birthday, a printer that has only seen occasional use - that is until Covid 19 and lockdown started. Since then, it's been running 15½ hours a day producing 3D printed visors.
To date, as a family, we have made over 1000 visor frames, and together with Helpful Engineering UK, we have donated more than 20,000 visors.
Camberwell
Who would have thought that our bond would be our survival kit. Our love would be our medicine. Our laughter would be our food!
Its been a surreal time, the longer the time has gone on it's become more comfortable and the more 'normal' lockdown feels being. Its weird, as now even the thought of adjusting to a 'new normal' seems scarier than the virus its self and thinking of not having to cue for essentials seems *ekkkk*.
We have grown in so much love and I've even learnt some maths, English and science along the way!
We've got closer and we've bonded and although we know more change is coming again soon, we now know for sure that we have got each others back regardless!
Feltham
Firstly, it’s very hard, but now it’s getting better. It helps if you are doing something, like reading books or reading the Quran. The community are taking good care, my children and grandchildren are also doing their part in this situation. I stay at home, sit in the garden or walk around it. Tunde (one of my children) cut the grass, so I can relax in my garden chair and enjoy the lovely sunshine and enjoy some fresh air.
I feel that making visors is our small way of helping to protect doctors, nurses and carers who are putting their lives on the line for my family and every single one of us. You can help by donating to the fundraiser for materials: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ujap6d-ppe-for-the-nhs
This lockdown has given us time to relax, reflect and re-focus. Appreciate each other more and plan for our future not just for us but for the potato we are growing.
Hoping this time gives the world a chance to heal and people to grow closer and realise how important love and laughter really is. We are so fortunate to have each other as many do not have anything and are struggling in this time.
Smile at strangers, look at the stars, applaud our Key workers that are keeping this country going and appreciate how lucky you really are.
Earlsfield
My family just ask what I need, go out and bring it to my door, whilst keeping the social distance. I keep myself busy by cooking soups, carrying out domestic chores, decluttering and catching up with friends and family by phone or now I can WhatsApp my grandchildren. I also have an afternoon siesta. I eat what I like at the right time and go to bed when I feel to go.
Tooting
Living.... into the edge, doing what I can, volunteering at my GP's surgery
Loving.... the quiet gentle of plants budding, with my insouciant friend, Bodhi
Crystal Palace
For us the lockdown has made us slow down. We have more time to pay attention to things, both inside and outside of ourselves. More space to appreciate and be grateful. To see what we have, rather than what we might lack. More opportunities to reflect and connect with things that often got pushed to the side in the 'rat race' of work and school. More time with each other. More time to do things we love - me baking; her art.
The flip side is missing our friends and family. To remedy this we've used our daily exercise hour to do doorstep drops of the things we've made, to those that live nearby.
Lockdown stream of consciousness......
I’m proud of how we have adapted..as individuals, as families, as communities, as a nation. We may have been slow to get a grip on this thing but we might just be the first to come up with a vaccine. Go Oxford and Imperial College!
Through social media I can see us all going through similar coping strategies..baking banana bread, doing Zoom yoga and workouts, virtual pub quizzes, listening in awe to the birdsong on our precious smog free walks, cutting each other’s hair.
We had months of divisive bickering over Brexit. Now we don’t care. We lean out of our windows on Thursday nights to clap the NHS and wave to our neighbours. We feel a connection.
We might be masked up in Asda but we are checking in on elderly neighbours, having much longer chats with loved ones.
And life on the other side of this??? I think it’ll be like the Roaring 20s - there will a release of pent up spending, drinking, dancing - a baby boom! Party party party! I can’t wait!
Although it's been difficult to come to terms with this weird situation
It means there's more time for self-reflection & some calming meditation.
Stockwell
I saw it roaring
I felt it clawing at my clothes like a grieving friend
It said there are no new beginnings
Until everybody sees that the old ways need to end
But it's hard to accept that we're all one and the same flesh
Given the rampant divisions between oppressor and oppressed
But we are, though
More empathy, less greed, more respect
All I've got to say has already been said
I mean, you heard it from yourself
When you were lying in your bed and couldn't sleep
Thinking, "Couldn't we be doing this differently?"
Westminster
As the little one no longer has school she has been able to spend quality time at home with the family. Usually Siyana is busy with school, after school tuition, swimming and Arabic classes. And the siblings and parents are usually rushing in and out of the house for work and errands. It has been such a blessing to be given this rare opportunity where we can all sit down and just enjoy being a family.
Between the Commons
As Australians, we’re used to keeping in touch with loved ones online. We miss our London friends – our urban family – but we are enjoying their ingenuity through virtual quizzes, dinners and even an Anzac Day memorial (and no need for babysitters!). We are incredibly lucky to have a garden and be near the Common, and our allotment allows us to maintain our connection with the outdoors and nature. We are committed to appreciating our blessings amongst the unfairness - the lockdown affects everyone, but in such different ways.
As for lockdown.. we’re a family split right down the middle. As a freelance violinist, I had all my work instantly cancelled from day one of lockdown, and with the prospect of mass gatherings in warm, stuffy concert halls a distant dream, I feel it will be very long time until I work again in my profession.
I'm listening to every little whisper in the distance singing hymns
And I can, I can feel things changing
Another valuable experience gained amid all the chaos taking place outside of our four walls, has been learning to talk to each other. Dealing with anxiety and discussing difficult topics has become much easier as we are all in the same boat. It has been easier to open up conversations and share vulnerabilities, this is something we never had time to fully address before the lockdown.
The NHS is already close to our hearts, having literally saved our son’s life soon after his birth, and we are in awe of the bravery of NHS and other essential workers, like the bin men, delivery folk and police.
As professionals with working class heritage, we are hopeful that the greater appreciation for those supporting us through this time might drive greater wage equality.As professionals with working class heritage, we are hopeful that the greater appreciation for those supporting us through this time might drive greater wage equality.Most importantly, our greatest blessing is the extra time at home with our 18 month old, at a time when he has been developing and learning new things every day. For us the glass is half full, and we hope the world emerges better for it.
Tottenham
Earlsfield
My lockdown experience has irreversibly shaken me to the core, while my routine has altered only slightly.
We have abused our planet and make a mess of nature. Cut after cut, we have allowed the health care system in this country to end up in tatters. Many lessons to be learnt, don't you think? We have been given an exciting opportunity.
Norwood
Working from home during lockdown has allowed me to grow closer to my family and help more in making sure we live in a nice, comfortable environment.
My dad is still travelling on public transport and even though I have always been very conscious about hygiene, I feel I have become super conscious and will make sure he wears masks, gloves when he is out and when he gets home his clothes go straight in the wash and he goes and has a shower.
Battersea
Earlsfield
During this time of self-isolation
I've been learning to use different types of communication: Duolingo, Video calls, Zoom & social distancing visitation.
Loving cycling on roads that are almost traffic free
Less pollution, exploring new places, every day a different journey.
Cooking more from scratch, whilst managing with less
Enjoying being creative in the kitchen, Fuck Masterchef!
Not listening to the news, cos it don't bring me no hope
Using my communal garden & skipping to tunes with my Carney’s rope.
Trying to keep my body active and stay with a mind that's positive
I'm keeping my head down and shutting out the negative.
Unusual times often require unusual acts, and that’s exactly how we felt on the first Sunday in lockdown as we clambered out of our bedroom window armed with music stands and violins to play a few tunes for a small number of our neighbours. To our surprise, 50 or so joined us, listening from their windows, front doors, and scattered along the road, and we’ve now given 3 more ‘balcony concerts’ on the following Sundays.
Clapham
Relationship psychotherapist Esther Perel says of modern relationships, ‘we are asking one person to give us what an entire village once used to provide’ and never has this been truer. In the safety, and confinement of our homes under Lockdown we are all confronting ourselves and each other with intensity, scrutiny and expectation. Feelings and experiences often become magnified without the perspective and meter of ‘outside.’ We are seeking support, humour and affection, as well as catering and cleaning from those in our immediate vicinity - it’s a tall order, and one that Rich and I are navigated daily in our comfy slippers.
My work as a psychologist has become about creating a ‘remote’ connection, communicating about the most intimate of subjects with others through a screen.
Nick photographed Rich and me on National Mental Health week, an opportunity to remember the psychological toll that Covid-19 has placed on many individuals and families. Each person I speak with expresses their own unique daily challenge; anxiety, arguments, trauma, isolation, displacement or loss. However for some, it's the worry of Lockdown ending; this slower pace has made life more bearable for those who find things overwhelming.
Clapham Common
Wow! COVID-19 sure hit us with a bang and has left its mark in many ways, but, with many positives too. The slower pace of life, quality time with family, the space to reflect, the grounding quality of nature, the community spirit, the gratitude for the things that matter, the joy in the small things, the technology to be able to stay in touch with friends and family and realise how they, and human connection are so important.
I returned to my job as a pharmacist just after lockdown after some time off for anxiety. My role has given me a renewed sense of purpose and I feel inspired and proud to be part of a new NHS; one that is embracing technology and recognising the importance of mental health. It truly deserves the joyous celebration bought about by the ‘Clap for Carers’ nights.
Barnet
Moreover, I am truly humbled by those keyworkers who have braved and lost their lives to COVID-19. Let’s never forget the sacrifices that they and their families have made as we hopefully return to a new, better and kinder ‘normal’
Wandsworth
We decided to take the first photo without my husband because, for the bulk of lockdown, he was absent. He works in 2 hospitals and when they were busy rearranging how they did things, and making sure staff were protected whilst coping with the large numbers that initially came through, he worked around the clock.
The last few weeks have been very different as the number of Covid cases have reduced, he's been able to come home at more regular hours. Pre-lockdown he always left early to make sure he was back in time to say goodnight to our youngest, and for the last few weeks he's normally managed to do that again.
This time hasn't all been bad, my 3 children have had to step up; the older 2 help cook and clean and even teach the little one. For my youngest, she's reached 2 big milestones over lockdown; loosing 2 teeth and learning to ride her bicycle. Now 2 are back at school, and the house seems very quiet without them.
Wimbledon
Lockdown has made a huge difference to our family life. It's allowed us to spend more time together as a family, and for me (Joe) in particular, to be around much more to watch our beautiful daughter Francesca grow and develop.
Food is a huge part of our life, inherited from Cosima's Italian family and we've enjoyed introducing Francesca to new foods and eating together every day, something we could not do previously.
Prior to lockdown it was all too easy to become consumed in the working week, and to prioritise that over all else. Lockdown has provided a timely intervention, and reminder, that children change all too quickly and without realising we can miss out on this.
Lee Green
This Covid 19 pandemic was a big surprise to us as a family, I was very ill for a while with it. The one good thing that has come from it, is that it brought us closer as a family and for that I am truly grateful.
Hanwell
When I first heard about the Helping Dress Medics scrub making project I volunteered to get involved, along with many other costume professionals who couldn’t work during lockdown.
Helping Dress Medics has produced in excess of 8,500 sets of scrubs, 220 made and donated here in West London.
I enlisted friends, neighbours and anyone who was willing to sew through postings on our community fb page. My aim was to help locally and the scrubs we have made here have gone to Hanwell Health Centre, GP Practices all over Ealing, The Epilepsy Society, Meadow House Hospice, Northwick Park Speech Therapy team and individual nurses.
Being so busy has distracted me from dwelling on the crisis around us and it’s been good to be doing something that makes a difference.
One of the most positive aspects has been working with all the other makers and medics I’ve met over the past 8 weeks, while also being part of a much larger virtual team.
https://uk.gofundme.com/f/helping-dress-medics
Belsize Park
Lockdown has been a bugger, hasn’t it? Not being able to access the gym, the nail bar, the massage salon and the dog groomer! So I’ve had to step up to the plate, or rather the front step. Poor old Bruno won’t be entering Crufts any time soon!
When I had the Covid six weeks ago I had two nurses – the bossy one who made me watch videos, sit up, and consume endless medicinal snacks and drinks (thanks Rima). And this gentle one, Lana, who got me back on my feet with some lovely yoga and breathing exercises. Bless ’em both!
Sutton
Lockdown has been a strange time for most of us, and for me it has kept me most of the time at home on my own. I live alone and not seeing people or having physical touch has affected my mental health more than I thought. I am passionate about mental health especially within my work ( I head up a mental health support group). I have seen the increase of anxiety, stress and depression in myself and in others.
One of my saving graces (other than virtual contact with friends and family) has been my work; I work for the London Fire Brigade in their emergency control room. We currently have to sit apart, but for those 12 hours I am in another place still surrounded by people I know, and still able to do what I love, help people.
Lockdown has been hard in many ways but we know that we are amongst the lucky ones who have been able to keep working at home. An upside has been the time saved not travelling to work and I expect to be doing more home working in future. We've all found ways to amuse ourselves using the excess free time and will certainly be building some of the new routines into the "new normal" that emerges when we get to the other side of this. We miss being able to hug our parents who are on hard isolation in their homes
Fulham
They say that every change holds an opportunity, and it's up to us how we use it. The current situation showed us how connected we all are, how our actions affect others, and how important human connections are. It made me appreciate the people I have in my life even more.
I believe this situation has given us a chance to rethink what truly matters, stop wasting time on things that don't, and to be more mindful about how we treat each other and our environment. I hope we'll remember all this after the lockdown is over.
Stockwell
We were due to hold a big celebration in May for an important anniversary but the pandemic stopped that.
We both work with people who are already in need due to social inequalities deepened by 10 years of austerity from our government and plunged into desperate need by the pandemic.
So our days are very full in protecting human rights, working harder than ever and dismayed by the catastrophic impact of COVID-19
We hope that the public who are now seeing the deadly impact of inequality will speak up, together for a society that rejects a system that is simply not working.
Fulham
I miss my family and friends and can't wait to see them again, but somehow I feel that this crisis brought us closer. We are not rushing anywhere and have more time to call each other, to check in and see how the other person is doing, and to have meaningful conversations. I'm very lucky to have so many amazing and supportive people in my life and know I can't take them for granted.
What I miss most about this lockdown is just the normality of socialising, being able to go into a restaurant and change your order ,(unhappy emoji face ) it’s just deliveroo for one , you can’t even go boxing and have light banter with the lads because they could infect a loved one, or even being able to sit in the barber’s leather spinning chair with the cape like you’re superman.
But on the other hand this lockdown has made me appreciate small things, like speaking with my family members that I would only have a conversation with at Christmas for a few hours, even doing homework with my daughter explaining to her that the most important thing is giving your homework a structure that works well with yourself (digestible information ) or looking within myself in trying to learn new things ie filming, script writing , reading new books and things I have put off for months or even years.
Putney
I am 83, and a widow. I have a wonderful family and friends and they help to fill the void - the highlight of my week is cooking Sunday lunch for them. Not so, since lockdown.
On the negative side there is no-one to hug, and in our family there is a lot of hugging.
On the positive side I have time to smell the roses and strangely enough it makes me think back to the war. That was a time for neighbours to help one another, and I remember that. But families were often separated for long periods with no way of keeping in touch.
Waterloo
1st ever picture of the three of us. A rare picture of love during these hard times. The world has come to a stop, but our bond together has been unbreakable
This time around we have an app in the street where I live, and what a wonderful way that is to keep in touch. Also, I sit in my front porch and I love it when people stop by for a chat. And what about email and Zoom? All help to make me feel less isolated. Not only do I hear the birds, but my grandchildren and children telephone or WhatsApp all the time.
So there you have it - a national emergency again in my lifetime, but with the difference that technology brings - my days are full and although I am self isolating I feel very much in touch with my loving internet family. I am very lucky.
I have learnt to appreciate my mother’s role in making sure the house is clean and tidy and have been actively cleaning, gardening and cooking (also great for just doing something). As a family we have become closer, doing family quizzes, bingo, watching films together. Something we wouldn’t usually do as we are all so busy with our own social lives.
It has been a time of bonding and going back to basics.
Newham
I work in a Primary School by day organising activities for pupils before school and after school and keeping families updated with events in the local community. Evening, weekends and school holidays I get the local community active and I get involved in volunteering.I am a running coach and I also teach boxfit, aqua, yoga, pilates and hula fit. During lockdown I am still doing all of these things but in a different way.
Thanks to Chess in Schools and Communities and ChessKid our pupils are able to continue with learning and playing chess. I send regular updates to families signposting them to online resources and activities such ie Move Crew which shows how easy it is to get active at home. I have spent a few days with the local council as a delivery volunteer, dropping off essential packages to vulnerable people and families that are isolating.In place of coaching running I have introduced members of my running club East End Road Runners to yoga via zoom.
Clapham
I did work as a Costume Supervisor for theatre, but the show I was on was cancelled with no notice.
As soon as I heard of the emergency demand for scrubs I knew I could help, and the action has helped me.
We've made around 650 scrubs for Hospitals, Care Homes, GPs and Hospices in South London.
I’ve been so grateful for the fleeting doorstep conversations with our volunteers. We’re all scared for the future of our creative industries but the way we’ve adapted and come together gives me hope
Abbey Wood
When lockdown kicked in I started planting seeds, as so many people have. Not just plants, but seeds of thought.
I'm living in a transitional home and phase at the moment, so time to reflect & evaluate has been much appreciated. I've been decorating and recycling pallets into garden furniture. Turning the thistle patch into a garden.
My plan is to build a green home, with an ocean view.Somewhere to design and create works of art.
I will reboot my journey, find time to grow and dream big !
Clerkenwell
What were once simple outings to the Grocery Store have now become massive Expeditions. Got gloves? Check. Wait…where’s my mask? We barely make it outside of our building before one of us mutters, “Ugg, I have 2 left-handed gloves; I am going back up.” Finally outside, the beautiful sound of chirping birds engulfs us. Has anyone else ever heard the birds so loud in London or seen the sky so clear? I smile to myself, which is truly a smile to myself—because it’s from underneath my mask where no-one can see it.
Battersea
Being at home 24/7 with your kids, you learn a lot about them, yourself and your thresholds!
Home schooling has been incredibly challenging and even hair- raising at times, but it has given us a unique insight into another side of our kids we would not have fully understood had it not been for lockdown.
It has been a real eye opener getting to know our kids in a different and perhaps a deeper way. Understanding their strengths and insecurities, how they process information and cope with lockdown will hopefully make us better parents, but I guess only time will tell on that one!
Clapham Junction
Tooting
Throughout this crazy coronavirus time, I’ve split up with my then girlfriend for 3 years, feels like the best thing I ever done, I can breath again.
I also have had the coronavirus and it really had a detrimental effect to my emotional and physical well-being, along side recently becoming single!
Some of us are built to fight and some are not. I am mentally and physically strong because I believe in me no matter what is happening in my life, because my life is to give and share with outward bound; we are all humanitarians. Sharing my love/ education and morals makes me a stronger human.
For me, as a practitioner and personally, Lockdown has been about three things - connection, meaning and purpose - finding meaning in small pleasures, finding novel and creative ways of connecting to others, and having a purposeful role to play.
I am still getting to grips with all the social media platforms and testing out my skills and releasing YouTube hula fit tutorials, learning and having fun along the way. As we start to ease our way out of lockdown the way we learn and the way we get active will change. My hope is for a happy medium between online and face to face
We approach an intersection and stare at the crosswalk button. To touch it or not to touch it? I can almost visualize the squirming germs. Quickly, our eyes dart between the street, to the button, then to each other as we calculate the risk of being hit by a car, versus COVID-19. Nevermind. There’s barely any traffic and we’re wearing the gloves. He touches it. 30 seconds later, I exclaim, "Honey, Don’t rub your eye!!!!" “Why?" "You just touched the crosswalk button!!!!!" Ahhhhhhhh!
My family has been coping ok since lockdown although my mum and grandma definitely do miss being able to get outside the house, however I am very much a homebody so everything I enjoy doing is already here. I’ve been painting and drawing which is a hobby I stopped in sixth form and now I finally get a chance to focus on it. Cooking is something else I’ve been enjoying more lately even though it’s been hard to find most of the ingredients nowadays.
South Norwood
One issue we’re having is trying to cope with three of us sharing a small space so that aspect of lockdown can be stressful at times, on the other hand I would rather us stay on lockdown until it is safe to go out instead of risking our health. I see this time as an opportunity for us all to work on skills we want to improve and spend time relaxing with our families while we have the chance since this virus has reminded us all of our mortality.
Covid 19 has brought some family quality time to our lives. Our daughter is loving every single minute of having mum and dad around all day long. It’s wonderfully rewarding to see her evolving right in front of our eyes and not through nursery reports.
For us skills from childhood have been rescued as sewing, recycling materials to build toys, old recipes. Technology has revealed itself as a friend and as an enemy: we are overloaded with content not always truly informative but we have been able to reach out with our church, friends, family overseas...
In the bright side of this experience, there are a good bunch of lunches ate in the garden under the spring sun, musical evenings with the speaker out in the back garden, walks around the garden exploring how life carries on in urban nature with flowers blooming and bees buzzing.
Conscious of what is a sharp impact on our individual rights, we are also looking forward to seeing changes for good in the future as the best outcome for such personal sacrifice: more preventive medicine in practice all across the GP surgeries network, cleaner public spaces,...
To end in a positive tone, we love how we are enjoying simple things in life more than ever at home.
Wimbledon
A few years ago, my son, Thomas, asked for a 3D printer for his birthday, a printer that has only seen occasional use - that is until Covid 19 and lockdown started. Since then, it's been running 15½ hours a day producing 3D printed visors.
To date, as a family, we have made over 1000 visor frames, and together with Helpful Engineering UK, we have donated more than 20,000 visors.
Camberwell
Who would have thought that our bond would be our survival kit. Our love would be our medicine. Our laughter would be our food!
Its been a surreal time, the longer the time has gone on it's become more comfortable and the more 'normal' lockdown feels being. Its weird, as now even the thought of adjusting to a 'new normal' seems scarier than the virus its self and thinking of not having to cue for essentials seems *ekkkk*.
We have grown in so much love and I've even learnt some maths, English and science along the way!
We've got closer and we've bonded and although we know more change is coming again soon, we now know for sure that we have got each others back regardless!
Feltham
Firstly, it’s very hard, but now it’s getting better. It helps if you are doing something, like reading books or reading the Quran. The community are taking good care, my children and grandchildren are also doing their part in this situation. I stay at home, sit in the garden or walk around it. Tunde (one of my children) cut the grass, so I can relax in my garden chair and enjoy the lovely sunshine and enjoy some fresh air.
I feel that making visors is our small way of helping to protect doctors, nurses and carers who are putting their lives on the line for my family and every single one of us. You can help by donating to the fundraiser for materials: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ujap6d-ppe-for-the-nhs
This lockdown has given us time to relax, reflect and re-focus. Appreciate each other more and plan for our future not just for us but for the potato we are growing.
Hoping this time gives the world a chance to heal and people to grow closer and realise how important love and laughter really is. We are so fortunate to have each other as many do not have anything and are struggling in this time.
Smile at strangers, look at the stars, applaud our Key workers that are keeping this country going and appreciate how lucky you really are.
Earlsfield
My family just ask what I need, go out and bring it to my door, whilst keeping the social distance. I keep myself busy by cooking soups, carrying out domestic chores, decluttering and catching up with friends and family by phone or now I can WhatsApp my grandchildren. I also have an afternoon siesta. I eat what I like at the right time and go to bed when I feel to go.
Tooting
Living.... into the edge, doing what I can, volunteering at my GP's surgery
Loving.... the quiet gentle of plants budding, with my insouciant friend, Bodhi
Crystal Palace
For us the lockdown has made us slow down. We have more time to pay attention to things, both inside and outside of ourselves. More space to appreciate and be grateful. To see what we have, rather than what we might lack. More opportunities to reflect and connect with things that often got pushed to the side in the 'rat race' of work and school. More time with each other. More time to do things we love - me baking; her art.
The flip side is missing our friends and family. To remedy this we've used our daily exercise hour to do doorstep drops of the things we've made, to those that live nearby.
Lockdown stream of consciousness......
I’m proud of how we have adapted..as individuals, as families, as communities, as a nation. We may have been slow to get a grip on this thing but we might just be the first to come up with a vaccine. Go Oxford and Imperial College!
Through social media I can see us all going through similar coping strategies..baking banana bread, doing Zoom yoga and workouts, virtual pub quizzes, listening in awe to the birdsong on our precious smog free walks, cutting each other’s hair.
We had months of divisive bickering over Brexit. Now we don’t care. We lean out of our windows on Thursday nights to clap the NHS and wave to our neighbours. We feel a connection.
We might be masked up in Asda but we are checking in on elderly neighbours, having much longer chats with loved ones.
And life on the other side of this??? I think it’ll be like the Roaring 20s - there will a release of pent up spending, drinking, dancing - a baby boom! Party party party! I can’t wait!
Although it's been difficult to come to terms with this weird situation
It means there's more time for self-reflection & some calming meditation.
Stockwell
I saw it roaring
I felt it clawing at my clothes like a grieving friend
It said there are no new beginnings
Until everybody sees that the old ways need to end
But it's hard to accept that we're all one and the same flesh
Given the rampant divisions between oppressor and oppressed
But we are, though
More empathy, less greed, more respect
All I've got to say has already been said
I mean, you heard it from yourself
When you were lying in your bed and couldn't sleep
Thinking, "Couldn't we be doing this differently?"
Westminster
As the little one no longer has school she has been able to spend quality time at home with the family. Usually Siyana is busy with school, after school tuition, swimming and Arabic classes. And the siblings and parents are usually rushing in and out of the house for work and errands. It has been such a blessing to be given this rare opportunity where we can all sit down and just enjoy being a family.
Between the Commons
As for lockdown.. we’re a family split right down the middle. As a freelance violinist, I had all my work instantly cancelled from day one of lockdown, and with the prospect of mass gatherings in warm, stuffy concert halls a distant dream, I feel it will be very long time until I work again in my profession.
I'm listening to every little whisper in the distance singing hymns
And I can, I can feel things changing
Another valuable experience gained amid all the chaos taking place outside of our four walls, has been learning to talk to each other. Dealing with anxiety and discussing difficult topics has become much easier as we are all in the same boat. It has been easier to open up conversations and share vulnerabilities, this is something we never had time to fully address before the lockdown.
Tottenham
Earlsfield
My lockdown experience has irreversibly shaken me to the core, while my routine has altered only slightly.
We have abused our planet and make a mess of nature. Cut after cut, we have allowed the health care system in this country to end up in tatters. Many lessons to be learnt, don't you think? We have been given an exciting opportunity.
Norwood
Working from home during lockdown has allowed me to grow closer to my family and help more in making sure we live in a nice, comfortable environment.
My dad is still travelling on public transport and even though I have always been very conscious about hygiene, I feel I have become super conscious and will make sure he wears masks, gloves when he is out and when he gets home his clothes go straight in the wash and he goes and has a shower.
Battersea
Earlsfield
During this time of self-isolation
I've been learning to use different types of communication: Duolingo, Video calls, Zoom & social distancing visitation.
Loving cycling on roads that are almost traffic free
Less pollution, exploring new places, every day a different journey.
Cooking more from scratch, whilst managing with less
Enjoying being creative in the kitchen, Fuck Masterchef!
Not listening to the news, cos it don't bring me no hope
Using my communal garden & skipping to tunes with my Carney’s rope.
Trying to keep my body active and stay with a mind that's positive
I'm keeping my head down and shutting out the negative.
Unusual times often require unusual acts, and that’s exactly how we felt on the first Sunday in lockdown as we clambered out of our bedroom window armed with music stands and violins to play a few tunes for a small number of our neighbours. To our surprise, 50 or so joined us, listening from their windows, front doors, and scattered along the road, and we’ve now given 3 more ‘balcony concerts’ on the following Sundays.
Clapham
Relationship psychotherapist Esther Perel says of modern relationships, ‘we are asking one person to give us what an entire village once used to provide’ and never has this been truer. In the safety, and confinement of our homes under Lockdown we are all confronting ourselves and each other with intensity, scrutiny and expectation. Feelings and experiences often become magnified without the perspective and meter of ‘outside.’ We are seeking support, humour and affection, as well as catering and cleaning from those in our immediate vicinity - it’s a tall order, and one that Rich and I are navigated daily in our comfy slippers.
My work as a psychologist has become about creating a ‘remote’ connection, communicating about the most intimate of subjects with others through a screen.
Nick photographed Rich and me on National Mental Health week, an opportunity to remember the psychological toll that Covid-19 has placed on many individuals and families. Each person I speak with expresses their own unique daily challenge; anxiety, arguments, trauma, isolation, displacement or loss. However for some, it's the worry of Lockdown ending; this slower pace has made life more bearable for those who find things overwhelming.