What does Clinically Extremely Vulnerable mean?

Some people have certain health conditions that puts them at higher risk of developing complications from Coronavirus (COVID-19). Visit the “Who’s at higher risk from coronavirus” page on the NHS website for more information. These people need to take extra precautions to ensure they are protected from the virus.

What does SHIELDING mean?

Shielding is the term used to protect those people who are Clinically Extremely Vulnerable through a range of additional precautionary measures. It is the Government’s decision to commence SHIELDING. Once the government makes this decision it will inform people who are Clinically Extremely Vulnerable in the affected area and send people a letter/text message to confirm this. View the “Coronavirus: What does shielding mean?” page on the Healthwatch website for an explanation of what shielding means.

What is the Shielded Patient List (SPL)?

The SPL is a secure database of people who are identified as Clinically Extremely Vulnerable and at risk of developing complications from Coronavirus (COVID-19). The database enables partner organisations to support and protect those people by working closely together.

Who’s at high risk from Coronavirus/Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (CEV)?

View the “Who’s at higher risk from coronavirus” page on the NHS website to find out Who’s at high risk from Coronavirus.

What’s the latest advice for people at high risk from Coronavirus (including SHIELDING)?

View the latest advice for people at high risk from Coronavirus: www.nhs.uk – People at higher risk from coronavirus.

I have been identified as Clinically Extremely Vulnerable and have been asked to shield, what is the advice?

View the latest advice if you have been identified as Clinically Extremely Vulnerable and have been asked to shield: www.gov.uk – Guidance on shielding and protecting people who are clinically extremely vulnerable from COVID-19.

Who decides I am Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (CEV)?

Either your GP or hospital doctor decided whether you are at higher risk of complications from Coronavirus. You can also be identified from the national data base. Once you have been identified as CEV, you should receive a text or letter with guidance what to do and where to seek help should you need it.

I believe I am at higher risk, but haven’t received a letter?

Visit the NHS Digital website page for Shielded patients list information: www.digital.nhs.uk/coronavirus/shielded-patient-list.

I have received a text or letter, but I don’t believe I should be in the Shield Patient List?

Visit the NHS Digital website page for a Statement for people who think they have inaccurately been sent communication about being on the shielded list for Coronavirus: www.digital.nhs.uk/news-and-events/news/statement-on-coronavirus-communications.

I am Clinically Extremely Vulnerable, but need a letter for my employer or the Department for Work & Pensions (SSP) What do I do?

Visit the NHS website page on how to Get a shielding note: www.nhs.uk – Get a shielding note.

Can I access healthcare if I am Clinically Extremely Vulnerable and/or shielding?

Yes, everyone is reminded that the NHS is open and that providers of social care and medical services are making every effort to ensure services remain open and as safe as possible, through the provision safe care in infection-controlled clinical settings in line with Infection Prevention and Control guidance. If you require a face to face consultation healthcare professionals will provide care at home wherever possible.

I am shielding, should I go to my pharmacy to pick up my prescription?

No. Patients are advised to avoid going to pharmacies as support is available to assist in the free delivery of medicines if no family member is able to collect. Advice is as follows:

• In the first instance encourage collection through family, friends or a carer
• If you cannot identify a family member, friend or carer to collect your prescription from the pharmacy, you should be advised to contact the pharmacy. There is a nationally commissioned free delivery service operating currently for people who are shielding. The pharmacy may direct you a volunteer through our voluntary organisations or deliver the prescriptions as part of their own service.

I need support with day to day activities, such as help accessing priority supermarkets hopping slots, medicines collections and befriending support. What do I do?

For any welfare, practical and/or emotional support please contact Essex Wellbeing Service on www.essexwellbeingservice.co.uk or by ringing 0300 3039988.

Last updated: January 2021