“U would have gotten it by now”
So, you have moved back to uni. You may be living with your friends, or you could have moved in with strangers. Regardless, people just have different views on the current covid situation. The pandemic has broken up relationships, helped make some stronger or you could have formed some new ones. So much has changed! But watching how the people around you are acting in the current moment could really be affecting your opinion on their character. But most importantly what can you do if the people you live with ignore lockdown rules?
You may fear being caught up in the blast if they are caught breaking the law. What if they get caught? Will you be fined too? If you report them, what will living with them be like after? All these questions have very fuzzy responses. As the saying goes “these are unprecedented times” and the sad fact is no one really knows the answers. In terms of fines the Citizens advice website states: “The police could tell you to go home or fine you £200 if you go out or meet with people when you’re not allowed to. You can be fined up to £6,400 if you keep breaking the rules, and up to £10,000 if you organise a meeting of more than 30 people.”
Most of the advice online will tell you to try to approach the law-breaking individuals and try to help them see things from your side. An honest chat can sometimes be what is needed for the situation to look up! This may take more than one conversation and some space between. But persistence and a cool, collected attitude could be what is needed. In the circumstances though time may not be something you are willing to give. However, distance could be a possibility.
When people you like with are not respecting lockdown rules or what you are comfortable with, they most likely are putting you and themselves and anyone that the group you come in to contact with in danger. Try bringing the outside guidelines inside (where possible)! Wash your hands and anything you would like to touch or use. If they will not conform to the rules, you may have to bridge the gap for the sake of your health. Remember … “Hands. Face. Space” (Gov.UK).
Lockdown affected us all differently. But no matter what your situation you need to try to stay positive. What we are doing now will help ensure a better future. Focus on the up not the down. Keep connected to your loved ones. And remember that with every day we are doing our part we are helping to save lives! If your living situation is like that described above a call to Citizens advice or your local authorities for some more specific advice may be a massive help. Just know that we are all in this together.
