what people can and can’t do to celebrate with their mums during coronavirus

It’s Mother’s Day this Sunday, March 22, but the current government advice is to avoid all non-essential travel, and most of the usual places you might plan to go to mark the day are closed.

People aged over 70 have been asked to stay at home for 12 weeks from this weekend to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, which is particularly dangerous for this age group.

Thus, for many, this Mother’s Day is going to feel very different, but you can still make it a day of celebration and make your mum feel special. 

Is it safe to visit?

In other countries, social distancing has been the most effective way of slowing down the spread of the highly infectious coronavirus.

The current Government advice is that those of increased risk – all those over 70 and anyone under 70 with an underlying health condition – should be “particularly stringent in following social distancing measures”. Keep up-to-date on advice as it is changing by the day.  

We usually go out for Mother’s Day, what can we do at home?

If lockdown permits (again, keep up-to-date on the current government advice) you could opt to take a walk in the fresh air, keeping your distance (around six feet), as this will be safer than meeting in an enclosed space.

To mark the day, you can still make a fuss of your mother: bake her a cake or cookies, make her a special meal, watch a film together, or play a board game. 

If visiting isn’t an option, what can I do instead?

Set up a Skype, Facetime or Zoom call. You could arrange to have lunch or tea together online. If your mother isn’t technologically savvy, do the same over the phone. You could also watch some TV or a concert together.

There are hundreds of incredible free on-demand performances available online: try the Met Opera or the Digital Concert Hall. Or be your own Gogglebox and binge a boxset on Netflix or Amazon, while chatting on the phone or online.  

Is it safe to send flowers?

If you’re worried that sending flower deliveries may put your mother at risk, set your mind at rest.

Interflora is offering non-contact deliveries, and say that although some flowers will not be available due to changes in supply, their local artisanal florists will be able to supply alternatives (also a great way of supporting local business). 

Can I still send a present?

According to Royal Mail, Public Health England (PHE) “has advised that people receiving parcels are not at risk of contracting the coronavirus.

From experience with other coronaviruses, we know that these types of viruses don’t survive long on objects, such as letters or parcels”.

Royal Mail postal workers are no longer passing electronic devices for recipients to sign, and will retreat to a safe distance when making a delivery.

M&S has also launched contact-free delivery. If you’re concerned about an online delivery, contact the company to find out its policy. Bear in mind that ordering from local businesses is a great way to support the community during this time, as well as giving your mum a treat.