Still Shielding – the mental health of immunocompromised patients at continued risk of COVID-19

ACP-UK has carried out some original research into the situations faced by the 1.8 million immunocompromised patients and their families who are at a high risk of serious COVID-19 complications and who continue to shield or remain socially isolated due to their ongoing health risks. This was conducted in conjunction with the Forgotten Lives UK patient group, who represent these people. We found high levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness, work restrictions and financial hardship in both the patients and their families. The results are very concerning and at a level that would trigger inclusion on the NHS England Risk Registers and prompt the provision of urgent psychological assessment and treatment pathways.

It is hoped that we can help provide some of these pathways through our specialist clinical psychology expertise. We continue to work closely with government, specialist medical bodies and the charity sector to push to offer this support to these forgotten and vulnerable people and their loved ones.

If you have any questions about this work please contact Dr Penelope Cream at p.cream@acpuk.org.uk

Still Shielding – then mental health immunocompromised patients at risk of COVID-19