'I worry people won't stay one metre away, let alone two' - this is the reality for one woman who is afraid of shielding being paused next week.

Vicki Dennis from Bracknell has muscular dystrophy, which means she’s at a higher risk of Covid-19.

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She has been shielding at home with her partner Keegan for almost four months and 'cried' when she heard Boris Johnson say to the nation to 'enjoy the pubs and enjoy the summer'.

Vicki is urging members of the public to remember that some people who are out may be in the high risk group of Covid-19.

People who have been shielding during lockdown still need to practise socially distancing at two metres or more – as opposed to the one-metre-plus rule for others.

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She said: “Shielding for the last 20 weeks has been hard. I found it particularly difficult when the pubs and restaurants reopened. People were allowed to go and have a drink or go out for a meal, but I – living with a life-limiting condition – had to stay indoors. I can’t even see medical specialist about my condition.

“When I listened to Boris Johnson a couple of weeks ago and he said ‘enjoy the pubs and enjoy the summer’ there was no mention of the shielding community whatsoever. I actually cried. I’ve never felt so trapped in my life.”

Vicki left the house properly for the first time at the weekend to sit in a friend’s garden and to celebrate Keegan’s 40th birthday.

But she has concerns about leaving the house for other things.

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Ms Dennis added: “People don’t seem to be keeping their distance, and I worry people won’t stay one metre away, let alone two.

“People need to be aware that shielders will be leaving the house, and they need you to keep your distance.”

The charity behind Vicki's condition Muscular Dystrophy UK, has been campaigning for support from the government to continue even when shielding is paused.

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That’s because some people will continue to shield past 1 August and will still need access to food and medicines. Others who do decide to go out need to feel safe when they do.

Rob Burley, director of campaigns, care and support at Muscular Dystrophy UK, said: “Lockdown has been a stressful time for people like Vicki. While the risk of being exposed to Covid-19 may be falling, the Government itself has said the potential impact on many people living with a muscle-wasting condition remains severe. It must ensure that nobody who feels the need to continue to shield is left isolated and alone. And people who would like to start coming out of shielding must be made to feel safe in doing so.

“Everyone who has been shielding has had a different experience, and it’s vital this is recognised. We’d urge the Government to listen to people who are shielding like Vicki, and to continue to work with charities like Muscular Dystrophy UK.”