Covid-19 - What changes will be made?

 Coronavirus is spending quickly over the UK, and drastic actions have been made by the government to social distance, self isolate and avoid all non-essential travel. (Public Health England. 2020.)

This is a daunting time for everyone who works within the arts. Both of my dance schools, that I work part-time at, have cancelled all lessons for the foreseeable future. I have friends that tours have been cancelled, cruises have stopped, schools are closed. What is going to happen?

I have already seen a great amount of resilience from our amazing community. People offering free digital classes, online tutorials, free advice on how to get financial help. There has even been a Facebook page with over 13,000 performers, called 'UK Theatre Industry Coronavirus Support' been made to help keep everyone updated and connected.

Will this change the way we teach/learn/communicate forever? 

Throughout the last six weeks I have been researching the three lenses in the handbook: 'Communication (including Web 2.0), Reflection and Ethical Considerations, Networks and Community.' (ACI3611, Module Handbook, AKinleye) and I feel like this whole course, especially now, is so relevant in the world today. 

Communication - Using Facebook (Web 2.0) to keep informed about job closures, financial advice and indursty advice.

Reflection and Ethical Considerations - What do we all do? How can we use our skills in order to continue? Use our DBS checks to help with childcare? Are we able to teach lessons through Skype? Do we self isolate and protect the vulnerable?

Networks and Community - Helping each other, keep strong together, mental health awareness and free groups and support. 

Although this is a scary time, I am proud of our community and the way in which we are trying to adapt during this hard time.

I am also a Medical Laboratory Assistant for the NHS, I am going to do another blog in a couple of days on how this is impacting on this too. 

The bigger question is, will this change the way in which we live forever? 

Lets continue to look after each other, and wash our hands!

Paul x

Bibliography 

• Public Health England. (2020). Guidance on social distancing for everyone in the UK and protecting older people and vulnerable adults. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-on-social-distancing-and-for-vulnerable-people/guidance-on-social-distancing-for-everyone-in-the-uk-and-protecting-older-people-and-vulnerable-adults