Frontline heroes: Paramedics aren't standoffish, they're just distancing
Now that we are in lockdown spare a thought for all the essential workers like Mark Shakespeare, from Wellington Free Ambulance.
He still has to go to work and face difficult situations helping the sick and the injured. At the same time, he has to keep himself safe.
“We’re giving more room between ourselves and patients. We’ll turn up with PPE such as masks and gloves.We’ll also ask several questions and depending on the answers, we’ll wear extra PPE to keep them and us safe.”
While the number of emergencies requiring attention remains about the same, the nature of the call-outs changes during lockdown, he said. Paramedics are responding to a lot more calls from people experiencing anxiety and mental distress.
Have you got anyone in your family who is an essential worker?
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77.1% Yes
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22% No
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0.9% Other - I'll share below
Age Concern Christmas Social Hubs for the Hutt Valley
Meri Kirihimete - Merry Christmas
Come and join our fun Christmas Hubs:
Upper Hutt - Te Kupenga o Rongomai - Maidstone Sports Centre, Wednesday 11th Dec at 12pm featuring the Hutt Ukulele Orchestra.
Lower Hutt - Walter Nash Centre, Thursday 12 December 1:30pm
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.