Meet family in gardens while Socially Distancing

Allow members of extended families e.g. parents, grandparents, siblings etc. to visit each other, but remain outdoors. For example in each other’s gardens, while still socially distancing - keeping 2m from each other.

Why the contribution is important

This would have a big impact on everyone’s mental health, and allow people a little ‘normality’. I imagine this would also make people more likely to comply with other pieces of guidance as the whole thing wouldn’t seem to have such an impact on people’s lives!

by GordonEdge on May 08, 2020 at 05:57PM

Current Rating

Average rating: 4.8
Based on: 36 votes

Comments

  • Posted by rationalone May 08, 2020 at 18:01

    This would make a big difference to older people who live alone and would have huge mental health benefits.

  • Posted by wisteria May 08, 2020 at 18:17

    I think this is a good idea, but would want to keep the group to about 10 people and one must be sure that it is a ‘closed’ group.

  • Posted by Robert1000 May 08, 2020 at 18:29

    A very sensible idea that could be implemented now. But the agenda is set by the 1% who dont follow the rules.

  • Posted by Tara May 08, 2020 at 18:33

    I think social bubbles that are no more than 10 people should be allowed to meet once a week outside. It should be made clear that it is always the same group of 10 each week

  • Posted by cj2000bb May 08, 2020 at 18:46

    But they can't - already have neighbours who don't think restrictions apply and have relatives visit and sit in garden, but too close and for too long. Problem is these same people will also be visiting others because they dont think rules apply and so end up interacting with 10s of people an if just one has virus, then potentially they all could. They will also want the cuddle before they leave without even thinking.
    I have seen little evidence of full 2m being maintained anywhere - 2m is quite a big distance and most people are still too close already.

  • Posted by lovemachine May 08, 2020 at 18:46

    This is possibly one of the most important ideas put forward. It is imperative for mental health and a sense of normality that we get to meet with our families again.
    I want to see my son and his partner who are both working from home in a one bed apartment. It is important to me and my husband but maybe even more so for them so they can sit in my garden, see their parents/in laws and family pets. Hand washing as they enter and safe distancing would of course need to be observed.

  • Posted by Lizzy2186 May 08, 2020 at 19:11

    Yes a good and productive idea benifiting all members of close family a better more realistic connection currentlly the restrictions are very upsetting and heartbreaking

  • Posted by Slaurand May 08, 2020 at 19:12

    I applaud this idea with the extension that those who don't have local family can 'adopt'a small group of other families in a closed group.

  • Posted by Maurmac May 08, 2020 at 19:38

    For me this has been the most difficult thing keeping away from my grandchildren, children and my elderly father. So meeting up even once a week would benefit all families.

  • Posted by EJR May 08, 2020 at 19:59

    I think this would be hugely beneficial, particularly for elderly people. It would help people with their mental health and loneliness. It would obviously have to be strictly at a 2m distance with no contact and no entering the house.

  • Posted by Malcol May 09, 2020 at 08:34

    I would love to see my parents, however this would be an hour drive. Would this be allowed as out with current advice regarding travelling?

  • Posted by KAL May 11, 2020 at 10:50

    The ability to combine food/other deliveries to family members and sit outside whilst maintaining social distance would be appreciated. Not all older people are digitally connected and the only contact is a phone call. It would allow family members or nominated contact to visit and check on health and well being. There is sometimes a tendency for the older generation to soldier on when they should be seeking help/advice on health matters. The ability for families to check everyone is doing ok and take action if/when required would provide reassurance to all. Most families would be happy to have an outside meeting I'm sure, rather than none at all.

  • Posted by JulieMc May 11, 2020 at 14:33

    I am aware of some friends for whom this would be very beneficial.

  • Posted by harviej May 11, 2020 at 16:41

    This would be a wonderful idea. I'm not allowed to arrange to meet my grandchildren in the park, but if I'm in our park and happen to see another family I can speak to them from a safe distance.

  • Posted by MarsaliMac May 11, 2020 at 19:23

    I support this idea - the thought of not seeing grandchildren until there is a vaccine (18 months or whatever? ) is overwhelming. Some older grandparents may fear that they will never see their grandchildren/great grandchildren again.
    If this idea were to be adopted it would allow relationships to be maintained - Facetime etc is useful but small children don't necessarily want to communicate on a screen.
    Obviously, this contact would have to be accompanied by rigorous social distancing etc.
    However, if both households have self isolated, (to the extent of not going to shops etc) then could there be greater freedom? eg, meet in a house.
    I fully understand the need to protect the elderly but feel this has to be balanced with the emotional harm caused by the absence of contact, especially with grandchildren.
    I also appreciate that a rise in Covid 19 cases would require a tightening of measures again.
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