“We all need to hug” – Salfordian’s on hugging being allowed from May 17

Hugging between friends and family is to be allowed from May 17.

Statistics suggest that over half of all adults over the age of 18 have received their first Covid-19 vaccine. As the vaccine continues to be rolled out, the government can soon enter the third phase of easing lockdown restrictions.

On the 17th of this month, we get more of our freedom back.

Pubs will be allowed to open with indoor seating, entertainment venues such as cinemas and child play areas will also be allowed back open. The government will also allow crowds at some performances and outdoor sports venues.

The restriction on social distancing between friends and family will be lifted, meaning that people can hug once again.

Nationally, reaction to this point of lockdown lifting has been met with a response of gratefulness as people look to return to normality.

While the threat of Covid is still present, it is seen as the right move by some. But what do Salfordians think of this next step?

Salford’s Reaction to the news that hugging will be permitted:

“We all need to hug,” speculated one Salford resident:

“I know we’ve all tried to do the right thing but hugging is a natural instinct. We’ve probably still been doing it with our close family as well.”

Another resident admits how she’ll be glad to see people hugging again: “I lost my Mum through Covid.

“She went into isolation and took it really really seriously and I just wish that I’d have had the opportunity to do that. To give her a hug before she left”

One Salfordian referenced how she felt these set of restrictions could have e been lifted sooner: “I kinda think it makes no sense, things should’ve been opened before. You have to walk through restaraunts to get to outdoor seating – I’ve been hugging anyway.”

This couple also had their own take:

There is a feeling that this stage has been a long time coming and that it signals a return a pre-Covid reality.

Experts still warn of the dangers of coronavirus however. While things are on the up its imperative to stick to the guidelines to ensure this lockdown is the last. Vulnerable people both with and without the vaccine should still take the utmost of care.