Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they will take to support those who are clinically extremely vulnerable who have been shielding during the COVID-19 pandemic and are now suffering with their mental health.

People previously considered clinically extremely vulnerable are advised to follow general guidance while considering any additional precautions to reduce the risk of infection. For those who require support for their mental health, advice is available from general practitioners or via online only self-care resources such as Every Mind Matters, Let’s Talk Loneliness and the Hub of Hope, which provides information on local services. Patients can also self-refer into local talking and psychological therapy services. The NHS Volunteer Responders scheme can also provide telephone support or help with collecting shopping, medication or other essential supplies.