49. Britain’s lockdown shame – the story of the Forgotten 500k

In this special episode we reveal the ongoing crisis being endured by the Forgotten 500,000 … those British people whose compromised immune systems mean they live in constant fear of infection, serious illness or death. For a large number of those men, women and children lockdown has never ended because of a government refusal to act. You’ll hear a shocking first-hand account from English Professor Martin Eve, who is now entering the 134th week of isolation at home. He’s joined by Dr Lennard Lee – a leading NHS oncologist who is campaigning with Martin to bring an end to this appalling situation. They want to see the introduction of the Cambridge made drug Evusheld which acts as a barrier against infection, allowing patients to live more normal lives. Although Evusheld has been exported and is being used successfully in 32 countries, it is being denied to people living here in the UK. This is the story of a crisis that has been out of sight and out of mind for too long. Please support the campaign if, after listening to this episode, you agree it’s time to act.

Martin’s Crisis Cures:
1st Crisis Cure – Providing a home for an unwanted pet: I found comfort in adopting an older dog from a shelter.
2nd Crisis Cure – Making music and creative writing: Creativity offers a fantastic therapeutic outlet and can put you back in control.
3rd Crisis Cure – Technology: Dependence on technology whilst I continue to shield gives me invaluable access to the people I love.

Links:
Campaign website – https://getevusheld.uk/500k/
Write to your MP here (letter templates available) – https://www.writetothem.com/
Sign the petition here – https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/611884
Full episode transcript available at: https://www.crisiswhatcrisis.com/podcasts/britains-lockdown-shame-the-story-of-the-forgotten-500k/

Stream/Buy ‘Allies’ by Some Velvet Morning: https://ampl.ink/qp6bm
Some Velvet Morning Website: www.somevelvetmorning.co.uk
Your Daily Practice: Sleep by Myndstream: https://open.spotify.com/track/5OX9XgJufFz9g63o2Dv2i5?si=b2f9397c92084682

Host– Andy Coulson
Producer – Louise Difford