Leeds Covid shielder Connie misses family, friends and her voluntary work with older people

Connie Cluderay, 69, is shielding at her home in Cookridge because she has a serious lung condition, bronchiectasis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Mrs Cluderay, who could not leave her house and garden for four months from March 2020, said all she has done during periods when shielding restrictions were lifted is occasionally go to a shop and go for walks.

Helping third time Leeds Covid shielders combat social isolation and loneliness

Mrs Cluderay said in normal times she enjoys meals out with family and friends, is a regular gym goer and does voluntary work for north Leeds charity OPAL (Older People's Action in the Locality).

She said: "I'm still getting my groceries delivered. I don't visit anybody and no-one visits me.

"In a way it doesn't feel as bad now because this seems to be my life at the moment.

"The first lockdown was the hardest one I think as it was the unknown and we weren't really prepared for it.

"I'm still missing being able to be out with people and being able to see my family and friends. I desperately miss my voluntary work with OPAL.

Leeds family's extraordinary measures to shield son who had kidneys donated by both parentsMrs Cluderay, who worked in childcare and social work, added: "I also miss being able to go to the supermarket and being able to do my own shopping.

"I'm good with online shopping but there';s nothing like being able to choose your own stuff."

Mrs Cluderay, whose husband Keith, 68, does not have to shield, has said she is “extremely worried” about contracting Covid-19.

Mrs Cluderay is one of more than two million people in England asked to shield when the nation entered its third coronavirus lockdown on Wednesday.