Christmas is a great time to be with family and friends.  Unfortunately this year has meant prolonged absences from those close to us due to Coronavirus. The United Kingdom is in a second lock down of 2020. We are so close to beating the virus with a vaccine and a track and trace system which appears to be functioning better, despite a shaky start.

 It has been reported that the government is planning on releasing some restrictions in order to allow the country to celebrate Christmas. Whilst this may be done with the best of intentions, now is not the time to be complacent.

 Coronavirus continues to be like the country, killing hundreds every day, and infecting thousands, many with long-lasting effects. Even for those who managed to escape the physical disease, the mental health implications of sustained restrictions and fundamental changes to how we live will be felt for many years to come.

Christmas is so much more than physically seeing people. Through technological innovations, we can have face-to-face video catch ups, we can call each other, we can send each other Christmas cards and presents in the post. 

Christmas can never be cancelled, but Coronavirus can.  We owe it to our friends, neighbours, family, colleagues, and even to ourselves to allow this Christmas to be subject to any necessary restrictions.