Did you know that when it comes to film sequels, there are three standard rules?

1. The Audience should feel like they’ve barely left the theatre before needing to jump back into the story
2. The Same, Only Different – sequels are built to deliver exactly what audiences loved in the first place
3. Dare to Dream – but know when to stop. We all know that there are some sequels that should never have been made

So, whilst we may feel that we are re-living Groundhog Day as we venture into another lockdown; there are definite signs that this is not a sequel to ‘Lockdown 1.0’.

When we cast our minds back to March, I think we can all agree it was an emotional rollercoaster.  Never before, in most of our living memories, had we been placed under such strict measures and limitations on what we could and couldn’t do.  This sense of uncertainty led to scenes of panic buying, rationing and even queuing outside shops; and for many, nearly all health services outside emergency care were either temporarily mothballed or significantly reduced.  However, that is not to say that it was all doom and gloom though, as we embraced the sense of community, took time to appreciate the simpler things in life and were in awe of NHS and key workers across the country.

Having spoken to many clinicians who, during the first period of lockdown, were unable to see their patients; the re-emergence out of restrictions has seen overwhelming demand.  Backlogs in appointments and treatment plans, emergency treatments replacing check-ups and frustrated patients and colleagues alike with reduced clinic time due to the increased cleaning regimes; which in turn creates more downtime. 

Managing our emotions whilst also keeping our patients and clients at the heart of what we do can be a tough juggling act too.  For many patients/clients, clinicians can be the go-to sounding board, absorbing like sponges, the woes and fears of others.  Whether you realise it or not, a uniform can be seen as both 'authority' and 'saviour'.

So, whilst we may be dreading the next cycle, it is clear that we must follow scientific evidence and advice.  It is all too evident that we need resources directed to a robust track and trace system for our combined future wellbeing, but for now the forthcoming period of lockdown is not set to be a carbon copy of the last.

Firstly, it is reassuring to know that as healthcare professionals our patients and clients can still have direct access to the help and assistance they need.  With Government guidelines stating that healthcare services can remain open with appropriate and adequate PPE provisions, it is clear that business wise within healthcare; the show can indeed go on. 

So, which services are continuing during lockdown?

It is a relief to know that our overall health needs can still be assessed and treated during this second wave of Lockdown.  Services include:

• Dentists
• Doctors
• Opticians
• Audiologists
• Physiotherapists
• Osteopaths
• Chiropractors
• Podiatrists
• Chiropodists
• Pharmacies
• Soft Tissues Therapists
• Mental Health Services

With this broader view of how we take care of ourselves in this ‘Lockdown Revisited’ sequel, it is hopeful that the message of the importance of overall health and wellbeing will see steady numbers continuing to seeking help and support.  Minimising the impact of rescheduled appointments is two pronged and is necessary if we are to weather this storm as part of a much bigger picture.

But what about those whose business does not fall within the guidelines and are for now are in a further state of flux? 

Small businesses have always been the back bone of our economy and cornerstone of our communities. With so many trying to ride out this storm of uncertainty, it is hard for many to know what the future will bring.

Firstly, it is important to understand that whilst not deemed to be ‘essential’ services by some, complementary therapies bring a wealth of benefits.  We all know that ‘one size never fits all’ and therefore it is with a heavy heart that we try to understand how members of our well-being community are feeling as we venture into phase II of lockdown; and how they can continue to support their clients if they are unable to keep their doors open.

Although for some this may feel like a stretch too far from an emotional and resilience point of view, this state of flux will at some point return to an even keel.  This second period of downtime can bring about benefits; and whether that is taking to social media, Zoom or indeed planning for the reopening of your business, there is still much to do.  Understanding what you can do as a business facing ‘Lockdown - The Return’ from a marketing point of view, can provide some inspirational food for thought and keep you at the front of your client’s minds, even when you are not able to serve them.  To find more hints and tips on simple strategies you can adopt, read our article on ‘Why Marketing Is More Than Just Selling – It’s Brand Survival’

If I’m honest 2020 seems like a menagerie of numerous films all rolled into one, but with combined efforts and mutual support, here’s hoping the sequel to 2020 remains firmly on the editing room floor.

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Carrie Plummer - Editor & Content Manager