One year since Brexit …. still not ´done´

One year since Brexit …. still not ´done´

Bremain Chair Sue Wilson MBE takes a look back at the first year of Brexit in an article for The Olive Press:

The festivities are behind us, and for good or bad, we “got Christmas done”. If only the same could be said for Brexit. Not only is Brexit not “done” but it appears to be rather different to the one the country was promised. It does not do what it says on the side of the tin, or in this case, on the side of a bus.

I’m minded to write a letter to the government’s complaint department – yes, they do have one, I checked – but I think they might be rather overwhelmed at the moment dealing with other dissatisfied customers. Assuming, of course, that they are not all at a party, gathering or meeting.

Whether you voted for or against leaving the EU, there are few that can be happy with the outcome. In fact, public opinion has shifted considerably over the last 12 months, with only 14% of the British public now thinking Brexit is going well. Farmers and fishermen are suffering buyers’ remorse, businesses are concerned about lack of investment and staff and a mountain of red tape, and prices are rising. That’s before the UK have even implemented full customs checks on EU imports. We have yet to see what a full-on Brexit will actually even look like. I think we can be sure it won’t be pretty.

Still, new year, new day, and it’s not all bad news, right? As the first Brexit Secretary, David Davis, said back in October 2016, “there will be no downsides to Brexit at all, and considerable upsides”. He may have been proved slightly wrong about the downsides, but those upsides are SO worth it! Australian wine is going to be 20p a bottle cheaper to import, and who drinks European wine anyway? British fisherman will be able to catch more fish in five years time, assuming they haven’t gone out of business by then. A popular favourite will be the return of imperial measures. Not only will Brits be able to drink pints of beer out of pint glasses again (did they ever stop doing that?), but Champagne is going to be served in pint bottles! I’m not entirely sure the French have been told about this development as yet, but I’m sure they’ll be only too happy to change productions lines just for us. And let’s not forget blue/black passports – the first passport in history to reduce our ability to travel.

Even those responsible for negotiating and implementing Brexit are not faring well. We’re already two Prime Ministers down, and the current incumbent’s position is looking a tad insecure. Then we have the Brexit Ministers – to lose one Brexit Secretary would have been bad enough. To lose four in five years is starting to look like carelessness. Or possibly, even the most devoted Brexit advocates just can’t turn a sow’s ear into a silk purse, no matter how much sovereignty they sprinkle on top.

 

Withdrawal Agreement

The latest development saw Lord Frost toddle off into the sunlit uplands/the House of Lords, perhaps to sign up for anger management classes. Frosty the No-Man has become Frosty the Go-Man, to be replaced by wearer of many hats, and many contradictory opinions, Liz Truss. As a former staunch Remainer, and even a Lib-Dem, we can only hope that Truss will take a less belligerent approach to Brexit negotiations, though first appearances would suggest otherwise. Still, in the spirit of New Year, I’d like to suggest a few resolutions she might wish to consider.

Firstly, she could break the habit of her predecessors, learn how the EU functions, and stop treating our European neighbours as the enemy. The role of a negotiator or diplomat, is to be well, diplomatic. Another step forward would be to end the threats and honour international agreements the UK signed up to. The EU can hardly be blamed for Brexit failing to live up to the rose-tinted promises of many a PM and Brexit Minister.

My biggest wish would be for the return of all that Brexit has stolen from us – our rights as EU citizens; our international standing and reputation for honesty, decency and tolerance; and a return to our place as a global economic power.

Brexit isn’t done – it’s not even close. But it is bonkers – for the economy, for jobs, for prices and for business. Brexit was mis-sold, and the country would like its deposit back please.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. A closer, more efficient, economically viable relationship with the EU is not only possible, it’s worth fighting for. I’ll be happy to raise a 0.473 glass of Champagne to that any day of the week! In the meantime, maybe it’s time to send off my letter of complaint and ask for my money back.

 

El adiós del Reino Unido de la Unión Europea – Postfactual Interview

El adiós del Reino Unido de la Unión Europea – Postfactual Interview

Bremain member Greg Hunt was recently interviewed about the UK’s exit from the European Union by Celia Rivas Lopez, Political Editor in Chief for Postfactual, a new journal in Spain. Postfactual describes its purpose as follows:

Because we believe it is necessary to disseminate the knowledge that has been relegated to the academic world, we bring to our journal disciplines that have been relegated almost exclusively to the academic field, such as the study and analysis of political culture, in an attempt to approach current affairs from the thought , the reason and the circumstances in this current dilemma, exemplifying with practical cases and taking into consideration the History of Political Ideas and Law.”

You can listen to Greg from approximately fifteen minutes in:

Many thanks again to Greg for taking part on behalf of Bremain. 

Lockdown in Spain

Lockdown in Spain

On 14 March 2020, Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez announced the lockdown to the nation, effectively banning people from leaving their homes except to go to work or buy essential supplies.

The ‘state of alert’, initially scheduled to last for 15 days, is reviewed on a fortnightly basis, and has and will be extended as appropriate. The Spanish government will continue to monitor the effectiveness of their lockdown measures, and further extensions will be considered, as and when necessary, to keep the public safe.

The lifting of restrictions will be phased in as appropriate, with the timing of each new phase being considered on a regional basis.

Read the STOP PRESS section for the latest updates as they happen. You can also find USEFUL LINKS at the bottom of the page. 

STOP PRESS

June 20: ‘State of alert’ ends at midnight June 21

After 14 weeks of lockdown measures, ‘the ‘state of alert’ is finally coming to an end. Mobility restrictions will be removed, but hygiene & safety measures, to protect against a resurgence of the coronavirus, will remain in place. These measures include the compulsory use of face masks when it is not possible to maintain a safe distance of 1.5 metres.

The “new normality” measures will remain in place until the pandemic is considered to be over.

Please note that any further updates, relating to future coronavirus measures, will appear on our new webpage: The “New Normality”

JUNE 14: Spain prepares for the final phase of lockdown measures from Monday 15 June

Most regions of Spain will enter the final de-escalation phase on 15 June, leading up to the end of the ‘state of alert’ on 21 June.

Phase 3 changes to lockdown measures


Exercise: all time bands completely removed

Meetings: Maximum number now 20 people but still observing social distancing & safety measures

Play areas: Public swings and playgrounds will open

Shops: All can now open, maximum capacity of 50%

Shopping centres: Common areas open at 40% capacity & observing social distancing measures; shops within shopping centres open at 50% capacity

Markets: 50% of the usual stalls can open

Hotels: Opening of common areas, including swimming pools & spas, at 50% capacity

Bars & Restaurants: Terraces open at 75% capacity, with a maximum occupancy of 20 people per table, indoor areas at 50% capacity

Pubs & clubs: 1/3 of its capacity, excluding dance floors

Funerals: Maximum 50 people in open spaces or 25 in closed spaces

Weddings & religious sites: Maximum of 150 people outdoors, 75 indoors, but not more than 75% maximum capacity

Cinemas, theatres: Pre-assigned seats with 50% of the capacity

Outdoor shows: maximum 800 people, seated & respecting social distancing

Museums, exhibition halls, cultural shows & libraries: maximum capacity of 50% & groups of up to 20

Casinos, gaming & recreational rooms: 50% capacity

Active & nature tourism: Allowed with groups of up to 30 people, or 20 people with a guide

Recreational centres, zoos & aquariums: 50% capacity, limited to 1/3 of capacity in closed spaces

Beach: Bathing is allowed on the beaches respecting social distancing & safety measures

Sports: Competitive sport can return, sports centres at 30% capacity

 

The use of a mask is mandatory on public roads, outdoor spaces & in closed spaces, when it is not possible to maintain a safe distance of at least 2 metres

JUNE 11: Compulsory 14-day quarantine will end July 1

The government are taking a series of steps to re-activate the tourist industry and have given a green light to a pilot scheme in the Balearic Islands.

From June 15, German visitors will be allowed to visit the Balearics – a similar scheme proposed for the Canaries was rejected by the regional authorities. This option will not be available for tourists from Britain, though talks are underway with the British authorities. Other regions are being invited by the government to launch their own pilot schemes.

Tourists arriving in the Balearics will have to complete a health form, have their temperature taken, provide contact details & confirm where they will be staying.

A similar process will be applied at all airports once Spain enters the ‘new normality’.

JUNE 10: Cabinet approve Royal Decree for the ‘New Normality’

Health Minister, Salvador Illa, announced yesterday measures that will be put in place until the government declares “that the crisis is over”. These safety measures will take effect once the ‘state of alert’ comes to an end on June 21.

The decree, which will be published in due course, includes the mandatory use of face masks in closed spaces, where a distance of 1.5 meters cannot be observed. The application of restrictions will fall to regional authorities. The legislation will also set out safety measures to be observed in schools, workplaces, hotels and shops.

JUNE 10: Cabinet approve Royal Decree for the ‘New Normality’

Health Minister, Salvador Illa, announced yesterday measures that will be put in place until the government declares “that the crisis is over”. These safety measures will take effect once the ‘state of alert’ comes to an end on June 21.

The decree, which will be published in due course, includes the mandatory use of face masks in closed spaces, where a distance of 1.5 meters cannot be observed. The application of restrictions will fall to regional authorities. The legislation will also set out safety measures to be observed in schools, workplaces, hotels and shops.

JUNE 5: New phase changes from 8 June

Health Minister, Salvador Illa, has announced the areas that will change phases on June 8. 52% of the Spanish population will now be in Phase 3 of the de-escalation process.

Central government will allow regional authorities to take control of the de-escalation process and decide how long this last phase should last.

Phase 1 to Phase 2

  • Castilla y León
  • Cataluña: Barcelona, Metropolitana Norte, Metropolitana Sur & Lleida
  • Madridnidad Valenciana will stay in phase 2.

Phase 2 to Phase 3

  • Andalucía
  • Aragón
  • Asturias
  • Islas Baleares
  • Canarias
  • Cantabria
  • Castilla-La Mancha: Guadalajara & Cuenca
  • Cataluña: Alt Pirineu i Aran, Terres de l’Ebre & Camp de Tarragona
  • Extremadura
  • Galicia
  • La Rioja
  • Navarra
  • Melilla
  • Murcia
  • País Vasco

Areas not mentioned will stay in their current phase. The Comunidad Valenciana will stay in phase 2.

 

For more Covid-related news (in English), go to the government website: https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/covid-19/Paginas/index.aspx

For more news on this story, read El Pais here: https://english.elpais.com/society/2020-06-05/more-than-half-of-spain-moving-to-phase-3-of-coronavirus-deescalation-plan-on-monday.html

JUNE 3: Final extension to ‘state of alert’ agreed by parliament

Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, secured a sixth and final extension today for the ‘state of alert’. The emergency powers were put in place on March 14, with the aim of halting the spread of the coronavirus. The measures will now stay in place until June 21 – a total of 14 weeks.

Next week, the Cabinet will approve a Royal Decree regarding health regulations and measures that will be in place as Spain exits the crisis.

These measures and regulations will be implemented jointly with regional governments, until such time as a vaccine is available.

MAY 31: Further relaxation of lockdown measures from June 1

Health Minister, Salvador Illa, has announced the latest relaxation of lockdown measures, effective from June 1. These measures are expected to last for 14 days, though some regional authorities have requested permission to speed up the process. Over 32 million Spanish residents – 70% of the population – will now be in phase 2 of lockdown measures.

Moving from Phase 1 to Phase 2:

  • Andalucia – Granada & Málaga
  • Valencian Community – Castellón, Valencia, Alicante
  • Castilla-La Mancha – Ciudad Real, Albacete, Toledo
  • Murcia – Totana
  • Catalonia – Girona, Cataluña Central, Alt Penedès, El Garraf
  • Castilla y León – area of El Bierzo

Moving from Phase 2 to Phase 3:

  • Balearic Islands – Formentera
  • Canary Islands – La Gomera, El Hierro & La Graciosa

For further details on what’s allowed during lockdown phase 2, scroll down this webpage.

 

MAY 26: Quarantine for overseas visitors will be lifted on 1 July

At an inter-ministerial meeting yesterday, conducted by video call, government ministers agreed to lift the coronavirus quarantine for visitors from overseas.

Foreign Minister, Arancha González said that “the most difficult part is behind us. From July we will gradually reactivate international tourism, we will lift the quarantine and ensure safe health conditions.”

MAY 23: Foreign tourists can return to Spain from July

Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez today announced the latest government measures during the coronavirus crisis and confirmed that the virus reproduction rate is now at 0.20.

The tourist sector can now start preparing for the summer season with Spain being open to foreign tourist from July. Sánchez encouraged Spaniards to start planning their vacations and said tourism would return “in safe conditions”.

In addition, Sánchez confirmed that the Spanish football championship will recommence w/c 8 June.

Read more in El Pais here: https://english.elpais.com/politics/2020-05-23/spanish-pm-foreign-tourists-will-be-able-to-return-to-spain-from-july.html

 

MAY 23: Lockdown restrictions loosened in municipalities with less than 10,000 inhabitants

New measures will take effect, regardless of which phase municipalities are currently in, as long as social distancing measures are observed:

 

 

  • bars and restaurants can open – capacity restricted to 40%
  • restrictions on exercising during scheduled timeslots will be lifted
  • outdoor markets can open – with restrictions on occupancy
  • churches can open – capacity restricted to 50%
  • funerals can be attended by 15 people indoors, 25 outdoors

For those municipalities already in Phase 1

  • meetings with friends can increase from 10 to 15 people
  • outdoor sports facilities can be used – maximum 30% capacity

Further details can be found, in Spanish, in Boletín Oficial del Estado No. 144, on the government website: https://www.boe.es/boe/dias/2020/05/22/

 

MAY 22: New changes to lockdown phases effective from Monday 25 May

Health Minister, Salvador Illa, has announced further areas of Spain that will change phases on 25 May.

AREAS MOVING TO PHASE 1

  • Castilla y León: Ávila, Segovia, Soria, Burgos, Palencia, León, Zamora, Salamanca y Valladolid.
  • Cataluña: zonas sanitarias de ciudad de Barcelona, Metropolitana Sud y Metropolitana Nord.
  • Madrid

AREAS MOVING TO PHASE 2

  • Andalucía: Almería, Córdoba, Cádiz, Huelva, Jaén y Sevilla.
  • Aragón: Huesca, Zaragoza y Teruel.
  • Asturias
  • Islas Baleares: Ibiza, Menorca y Mallorca.
  • Canarias: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura y La Palma.
  • Cantabria
  • Castilla-La Mancha: Guadalajara y Cuenca.
  • Cataluña: zonas sanitarias de Campo de Tarragona, Alto Pirineo y Arán y Las Tierras del Ebro.
  • Extremadura: Cáceres y Badajoz.
  • Galicia: Lugo, La Coruña, Orense y Pontevedra.
  • Murcia
  • Navarra
  • País Vasco: Guipúzcoa, Vizcaya y Álava
  • La Rioja
  • Ceuta
  • Melilla

The whole of the Valencian Community remains in Phase 1.

Source: https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/Paginas/index.aspx

What’s allowed in Phase 2

  • Restaurants (those without terraces), theatres and cinemas can open but ‘with limitations’ – 1/3 capacity and with table service
  • Outdoor cultural events can be held with a maximum of 400 people – but only if seated and with social distancing measures in place.
  • Cultural gatherings indoors can be held with a maximum of 50
  • Historic visitor attractions (not theme parks) and monuments can open with 1/3 capacity, and for pre-arranged group or guided visits only.

For further information, read Spain in English here: https://www.spainenglish.com/2020/05/22/lifting-lockdown-spain-full-details-phases/

MAY 21: ‘State of alert’ extended until 7 June

Congress has narrowly voted in favour of a further 2-week extension to the ‘state of alert’, to 7 June.

It is expected that Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez will ask for one further and final extension after this one. The timing would then coincide with the national coronavirus de-escalation plan, which will be coming to an end, late June, across most of the country. 

On 20 May, the number of deaths recorded rose slightly to 110, after 3 consecutive days of less than 100 deaths. The number of new cases daily also continues to fall.

The Prime Minister told Congress, “The state of alarm will not last one day longer than necessary. Nobody has the right to throw away what we have all achieved together”.

For more on this story, read El Pais here: https://english.elpais.com/spanish_news/2020-05-20/spanish-pm-finds-support-in-congress-for-fifth-extension-to-state-of-alarm.html

MAY 20: The wearing of face masks is made mandatory from 21 May

The new rules regarding the compulsory wearing of face masks will come into effect on Thursday 21 May, except in certain circumstances.

See graphic from N332 (Road Safety Association) for further details or read the Boletín Oficial del Estado no. 142, from the Agencia Estatal here: https://boe.es/boe/dias/2020/05/20/

MAY 18: The wearing of face masks to become mandatory in public spaces

On Sunday May 17, Health Minister, Salvador Illa announced that the Ministry of Health will shortly make the wearing of face masks compulsory in public spaces. Until now, it has only been required to wear masks on public transport. Work is currently under way to draft a ministerial order, which will be published “in the coming days”.

It is likely that the wearing of masks will become obligatory in businesses and closed public spaces, but it is unclear as to whether they will be required on the street.

MAY 18: Relaxation of exercise restrictions in some areas

The current measures allocating exercise timetables to specific groups of people are likely to be relaxed in some areas. At present, municipalities with less than 5,000 inhabitants are exempt from these restrictions, and all residents are free to exercise at any time of day. They must, however, abide by other regulations, i.e. once a day only, maximum of 1 hour, within 1 km radius of their residence and with only one other family member.

These timetable restrictions will soon also be removed for municipalities with up to 10,000 inhabitants.

Further details will be announced shortly, but read here more in El Pais:
https://english.elpais.com/society/2020-05-17/spains-health-ministry-will-make-masks-obligatory-beyond-just-public-transport.html

MAY 17: Prime Minister Sánchez to ask Congress for one last extension to ´state of alert´

The Spanish PM made a televised address yesterday afternoon, announcing his intention to request one last extension, this time for one month. He said the de-escalation process would be completed in half of the country by the beginning of summer.

He stated that the lockdown was working and that “the path we are taking is the only one possible”.

For the full story, read the article in El Pais here: https://english.elpais.com/politics/2020-05-16/spanish-pm-will-request-one-last-extension-of-the-state-of-alarm-this-time-for-a-month.html

MAY 16: Lockdown restriction changes – areas moving to new phases effective from 18 May

Health Minister, Salvador Illa, announced changes this weekend to the lockdown levels in certain areas. Further information will be available soon.

Phase 0 to Phase 1

  • Malaga
  • Granada
  • All of Valencian Community
  • Some areas of Castilla & León
  • All of Cataluña, except for Metropolitan Barcelona
  • Cuidad Real
  • Toledo
  • Cuenca

Phase 1 to Phase 2

  • Islands of Formentera, La Gomera, El Hierro & La Graciosa

Source: N332 – Road Safety Association

MAY 16: Non-essential travel restrictions extended for international travellers

Effective immediately, restrictions for non-essential travel have been extended until 15 June.

The order stipulates that the authorities may turn away EU citizens and their relatives for public health reasons, if they are not “registered as residents of Spain, or headed directly to their place of residence in another members state, Schengen-associated state or Andorra”.

The travel restrictions will therefore extend beyond the current termination date of the ´state of alert´.

Source: Boletín Oficial del Estado – No. 136, 15 May.

For further information (in Spanish), go to the official government website here: https://www.boe.es/boe/dias/2020/05/15/

Or read more on this subject in El Pais here: https://english.elpais.com/society/2020-05-15/spain-to-extend-restrictions-on-international-travelers-until-june-15.html

May 12: Two-week quarantine for all overseas travellers from 15 May

The Spanish government has ordered a two-week quarantine for all overseas travellers entering the country in a bid to curb the spread of the virus.

Incoming travellers will have to remain indoors except to shop for essentials such as food and medicine.

The quarantine will remain in force throughout the duration of the “state of alert”, which is currently due to end on 24 May.

The measures apply to all travellers, including Spanish citizens returning to the country. Only lorry drivers, airplane and ship crews, cross-border workers and health staff who are entering Spain to work will be exempt.

Read more on this story from El Pais here: https://english.elpais.com/society/2020-05-12/spain-to-introduce-14-day-quarantine-for-international-travelers.html

MAY 11: British Embassy provides updates re Phase 1 de-escalation measures

As of today, many parts of Spain are moving into Phase 1, while others remain in Phase 0. The timetables & existing rules for walks & exercise remain in place during both phases, but regional governments may introduce some changes.

One important rule change is regarding travelling in private vehicles. Those who live in the same residence will now be able to travel in the same car, occupying all of the seats, & without the need to wear masks.

Please see the infographics for further details but note that these do not include all measures. Full details can be found on the Spanish government website here: https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/covid-19/Paginas/index.aspx

For further details direct from the British Embassy, go to their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/BritsInSpain/

MAY 9: Spanish government announce areas of Spain that will implement Phase 1 next week

From Monday 11 May, selected areas will implement Phase 1 of de-escalation measures, expected to last for two weeks. In some regions, the designated areas have been selected based on “health zones” rather than provinces. Travel outside of your province will not be permitted.

Those areas not selected will remain in Phase 0 for the time being. Further announcements will be made in due course.

For further details, in Spanish, read the Agencia Estatal ‘Boletín Oficial del Estado´ here: 
https://www.boe.es/diario_boe/txt.php?id=BOE-A-2020-4911

Or read the article – “As half of Spain moves to Phase 1 of coronavirus deescalation, what will change?” – in El País here: 
https://english.elpais.com/society/2020-05-09/as-half-of-spain-moves-to-phase-1-of-coronavirus-deescalation-what-will-change.html

MAY 6: State of Alert extended until May 24

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has today secured a fourth extension to the state of alert. He warned that a further extension of ‘several more weeks’ would be needed to see Spain through the four-stage de-escalation process. Sánchez stressed the need to limit freedom of movement in order to defeat the virus, saying that it would be a ‘grave irresponsibility, an absolute and unforgivable error’ to end the state of alert too soon.

 

MAY 2: Prime Minister announces the lifting of some lockdown restrictions, effective May 4

  • Small businesses, such as bookstores, garages, hardware stores, clothing or shoe repair workshops, hairdressers, will be able to open with the following conditions:

⇒ Only by prior appointment
⇒ One customer per employee only
⇒ Special timetable for seniors (to coincide with their allotted exercise time slots)

  • Restaurant and bars may open for takeaway food only, with orders being placed over the phone/on the internet
  • Face masks will be obligatory on public transport -14.5 million masks will be distributed via transport hubs, municipalities & social institutions
  • Given the low level of infections, the Spanish islands of Formentera, El Hierro, La Graciosa & La Gomera will see further relaxation of lockdown measures

The prime minister also announced his intention to request a further two-week extension to the ‘state of alert’.

For further information, read El Pais in English here: https://english.elpais.com/politics/2020-05-02/spanish-pm-face-masks-will-be-obligatory-on-public-transport-from-monday.html

Or read El Mundo in Spanish here: https://www.elmundo.es/espana/2020/05/02/5ead5b22fdddff28048b45ce.html

 

MAY 1: Full conditions of relaxation of lockdown restrictions regarding exercise – effective from May 2 2020

Translated from BOE – https://www.boe.es/eli/es/o/2020/04/30/snd380

Article 2. Movements allowed for the practice of physical activity.

  1. People aged 14 and older may circulate on roads or spaces for public use for the practice of physical activities permitted by this order, in accordance with article 7.1(e), (g) and (h) of Royal Decree 463/2020 of 14 March declaring the state of alarm for the management of the health crisis situation caused by COVID-19.
  2. For the purposes of this order, the non-professional practice of any individual sport that does not require contact with third parties, as well as walks, is permitted.
    Such activities may be carried out once a day and during the time slots provided for in Article 5.
  3. During walks you can go out accompanied by one person with whom you live. However, those persons who have to be accompanied may also go with a person employed by a care home or regular caregiver.

Non-professional individual sports that do not require contact can only be performed individually. However, persons who have to be accompanied may go out with a person with whom they live, a person employed by a care home or a regular caregiver.

  1. Walks shall be taken no more than one kilometre from the home. This limitation shall not apply to the non-professional practice of any individual sport, this being permitted within the municipality where you reside.
  2. Persons who have symptoms or are in home isolation due to a diagnosis for COVID-19 or who are in a period of home quarantine because they have had contact with any person with symptoms or diagnosed with COVID-19 may not make use of the permissions contained in paragraph 1. In addition, residents of senior social health centres may not make use of such permission.
  3. The movements referred to in this Article do not affect those generally permitted in Article 7 of Royal Decree 463/2020, March 14, as well as under Order SND/370/2020, of April 25, on the conditions under which outings by children must take place during the health crisis caused by COVID-19.

Article 3. Requirements for avoiding contagion

  1. During the practice of the physical activities authorised under this order, individuals must maintain a distance of at least two metres from others.
  2. Avoid busy areas and spaces where people may gather.
  3. As far as possible, the physical activity permitted under this order must be carried out continuously, without stopping unnecessarily in streets or public spaces. When it is necessary to stop in the street or a public space, due to the physical condition of the individual, this pause should only be for the time strictly necessary.
  4. All the prevention and hygiene measures related to COVID-19 recommended by the health authorities must be observed.
  5. To enable persons to maintain safe distances, local authorities may redistribute the use of public spaces to favour pedestrians and cyclists, in that order.

Article 4. Permitted spaces.

  1. Persons may circulate on any road or public space, including authorised natural spaces and green areas, provided these respect the limits established in this order.
  2. It is not permitted to enter closed sports facilities to practice the activities allowed under this order.
  3. It is not permitted to use a motorised vehicle or public transport to travel to streets or public spaces in order to practice the activities allowed under this order.

Article 5. Time slots.

  1. The following time slots are established for the practice of the activities allowed under article 2.2:
  2. a) Individual sports and walks may only take place between 6 am and 10 am and 8 pm and 11 pm.
  3. b) Persons who need to be accompanied and persons over 70 may practice individual sport and walk between 10 am and 12 pm and between 7 pm and 8 pm. Persons over 70 may be accompanied by a person between the ages of 14 and 70 who lives with them.
  4. The time slots indicated in this order will not apply to municipalities, or smaller, separate populated areas within a municipality forming an administrative area, which have a population of 5,000 or less, where the activities allowed under this order may take place between 6 am and 11 pm.
  5. Exceptionally, these time slots do not apply when, for duly accredited medical reasons, physical activity is recommended in another period, or because the persons accompanying older people, minors or the disabled cannot do so within the allotted time slot.

El Pais Interactive map: How far can adults go for a walk under Spain’s relaxed confinement measures? https://english.elpais.com/society/2020-05-01/interactive-map-how-far-can-adults-go-for-a-walk-under-spains-relaxed-confinement-measures.html

 

APRIL 30: Relaxation of lockdown restrictions regarding exercise, effective from 2/5/20

The Spanish health authorities today announced new rules for outdoor activity. Health Minister, Salvador Illa, said that individuals can go out once a day, within their own municipality of residence, without making contact with third parties. Sports are also allowed as long as practiced individually.

Adults will be able to walk alone, or with one other family member, for up to an hour, and within one kilometre radius of their residence.

  • Walks and sport for healthy adults: 6.00-10.00 and 20.00-23.00
  • Walks for dependent persons (with a caregiver) and over-70s: 10.00-12.00 and 19.00-20.00
  • Exercise with children (under current conditions): 12.00-19.00

In municipalities with less than 5000 inhabitants, time restrictions will not apply, though all activities must take place between 6.00 and 23.00.

 

APRIL 28: Prime Minister announces de-escalation plan

In a press conference today, Pedro Sánchez announced that the Council of Ministers have approved a de-escalation plan for lockdown.

There will be no fixed dates for certain phases of de-escalation, but the situation will be reviewed every 2 weeks, & each new phase will last for a minimum of 2 weeks.

The phases will be the same in every region/area/territory of Spain but will be implemented at different speeds, dependent on the evolution of the virus. If all goes to plan, the “new normality” could happen by the end of June.

For further details, read here: https://english.elpais.com/spanish_news/2020-04-28/spanish-government-will-avoid-setting-dates-for-deescalation-measures.html

 

APRIL 26: Spain may allow confined citizens out for walks on May 2, says Prime Minister Sánchez

From today, rules are being relaxed allowing children under 14 to accompany a parent on a short walk.

At an evening news conference on April 25, the prime minister stated that if contagion figures continue to go down, lockdown rules would be relaxed even further. 

Sánchez said, “If the evolution of the pandemic keeps moving in a positive manner, starting on May 2 outings will be allowed for individual activity and for walks with the people that we live with.”

For the full story in El Pais, click here: https://english.elpais.com/spanish_news/2020-04-25/spain-may-allow-confined-citizens-out-for-walks-on-may-2-says-pm.html

 

APRIL 22: Congress authorises a third extension to the “state of alert”

As expected, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez gained approval for a further extension to the lockdown period, in a bid to combat the spread of COVID-19. The special measures will remain in place until May 9. Sánchez warned that the de-escalation of coronavirus confinement measures would be “slow and gradual”, and that the “general confinement will not be lifted until we are ready.”

Read the full story in El Pais here: https://english.elpais.com/politics/2020-04-23/spanish-pm-secures-support-to-extend-state-of-alarm-after-fierce-opposition-criticism-in-congress.html

From Sunday 26, rules will be relaxed regarding children under 14, who will now be allowed to go shopping with their parents, and for short walks.

For further information about the rule change regarding minors, read The Local article here: https://www.thelocal.es/20200421/what-we-know-about-spains-rules-on-children-leaving-the-house-during-lockdown

 

APRIL 15: Congress reserves April 22 for a possible further extension of the state of alert

The Council of Ministers will discuss the possibility of a further extension of the lockdown period when they meet next week. Any proposal put forward for a further 2 weeks would then need approval by parliament and would extend the lockdown until May 10.

For the full story (in Spanish) from La Vanguardia, click here: https://www.lavanguardia.com/politica/20200414/48510213795/coronavuros-prorroga-estado-alarma-11-mayo.html

 

APRIL 13: Some lockdown restrictions lifted

Spain’s non-essential workers, in sectors such as construction and industry, return to work, restoring the level of lockdown to the earlier level of the first 2 weeks. Strict measures are still in place for the vast majority.

 

APRIL 10: Congress backs PM’s request to extend state of alarm in Spain until April 26, with a further 15 days likely

“Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez secured approval from the Congress of Deputies on Thursday for his decision to extend the state of alarm in Spain and current confinement measures until April 26. The move, which will keep residents of Spain mostly locked down in their homes for an additional two weeks from the previous deadline of April 12, is aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus.

For the full story from El Pais, click here: https://english.elpais.com/politics/2020-04-10/congress-backs-pms-request-to-extend-confinement-measures-in-spain-until-april-26-with-a-further-15-days-likely.html

We will endeavour to keep everyone updated with the latest information regarding the rules of lockdown. Please check back regularly for further information & advice.

We have also provided advice and suggestions on how to stay safe, healthy, physically and mentally, and how to keep yourself busy and entertain the family during this time of crisis. For more information and useful links, click right

Stay home…

stay safe…

& look out for

each other!

USEFUL LINKS:

Worldometers monitor the number of cases & death tolls, by country: https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/

Institute for Health Metrics & Evaluation (IHME) COVID-19 death toll projections for Spain: https://covid19.healthdata.org/spain

For updates about the lockdown rules – Boletín Oficial del Estado: https://www.boe.es/index.php?lang=en

The Spanish government website has all the latest news from Spain, in English: https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/lang/en/Paginas/index.aspx

N322 Road Safety Association has a wealth of information about lockdown measures on their Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/DrivingSpain/

European Commission coronavirus home page: https://ec.europa.eu/health/coronavirus_en

WHO specific information on Spain: http://www.euro.who.int/en/countries/spain

WHO specific information on UK: http://www.euro.who.int/en/countries/united-kingdom-of-great-britain-and-northern-ireland

Spanish Ministry of Health, Consumer Affairs & Social Welfare: https://www.mscbs.gob.es/en/home.htm

Spanish Ministry of the Environment: https://www.miteco.gob.es/es/ministerio/medidas-covid19/

UK Foreign Office travel advice for Spain: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain

Brits in Spain (British Embassy in Madrid) Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BritsInSpain/

Brits in Spain website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/living-in-spain#coronavirus

Check back frequently for updates on the latest lockdown measures, as new material will be added regularly. Thanks!

Bremainers Post Lockdown Dreams

Bremainers Post Lockdown Dreams

We asked our members what they are looking forward to after lockdown ends in Spain – not just the big things, but the little things too. The response was overwhelming, so many thanks to everyone that responded.

Let’s hope we don’t have too long a wait for a safe return to the lives we miss, in the country we love.

EATING OUT

Go for a walk on the beach and meet friends at the Chiringuitos. The businesses will need our help.

“A 10€ menu del dia at one of our local bars/restaurants”

“Horchata”

“A couple of Spanish coffees and doing some people watch”

“Going for a cafe cortado at Pepe’s!”

“Ok – we probably still have a good 4 to 6 weeks lockdown so let’s not get carried away 🙂 but it’s nice to dream about going for a Chinese”

“I’m going out to my favourite bar to get absolutely hammered!”

“Going for aperitivos on a terraza in the sun and then heading off for a nice paella lunch each Sunday”

“Go to the bar for breakfast”

“Coffee with friends”

“Have a decent cup of coffee for 1€-“

“Going out for my normal coffee and a chat”

“Walk down to our beachfront and have a coffee”

“Coffee at our local bar Meeting up with friends. Normal life”

“Ladies who Lunch!”

FAMILY

Things will never go back to the way they were but priority will be to hug the people that matter and then hug the ones that didn’t matter so much before but do now.

Being able to kiss and cuddle my mother

“Seeing our family especially our grandchildren who are always here with us usually. We will have missed many birthdays including mine so looking forward to a big celebration in the garden”

“Seeing my parents, and brother, sister in law and nephew”

“Seeing my family”

“Travelling to UK to see my new grandson, feeling the beach between my toes, giving my perros a good walk, going to a bar to eat and drink, chatting face to face with friends. Apart from number one the rest are in no particular order”

“Hugging my grand-children and family”

“To hug my daughter who is an ICU nurse doing 2 consecutive shifts per day… living unthinkable situations and risking her life and to see my husband go to his office where he has been a dedicated employee for over 30 years. He was given ERTE less than 24 hours after lockdown”

“To meet up with family for lots of hugs”

“Hugs with family and friends”

“Giving my grandchildren the biggest hug ever”

“Visit my 83 year old Mum only 30kms away”

“As soon as it’s safe I’m jumping on a plane to Madrid to give my nan and my parents a tight hug. I’m hoping that they all (especially my nan) are still there to receive by the time I can make it”

I can’t wait to see my kids and my 20 month old granddaughter. She picked up my son’s phone today, gave it to him and said grandma for the first time because she wanted to video chat with me as we do every day. I’m really looking forward to hearing her say Grandma in person

Flying to the UK to hug my children. One of whom is a front-line NHS doctor, and just recovering from the virus.

SOCIALISING

I’m looking forward to seeing the look on my son’s face when he finally sees his friends again. He’s 8 and missing them like crazy!

Going to see my girlfriend.

“Having been ill since the beginning of February, I’m looking forward to seeing my colleagues again”

“Socialise again and be able to continue my cancer treatment”

“Have lunch with our friends!”

“Easy, having a drink with all my friends”

“Having been ill since the beginning of February, I’m looking forward to seeing my colleagues again”

“Socialise again and be able to continue my cancer treatment”

“Have lunch with our friends!”

“Easy, having a drink with all my friends”

“Hugging friends and acquaintances in the local bar”

“To meet up with our friends for drinks and tapas and family in the UK”

Coffee and a good chat with my girlfriends and lunch down on the coast with hubby.

“Meeting up with our wonderful friends and heading off in our motorhome”

“I’m looking forward to visiting friends whom I miss so much!”

“Meeting up with all our friends in San Pedro del Pinatar for the mother of all parties!”

“I’m looking forward to joining my Spangles Harmony Chorus ‘family’ so that we can all sing together again, as it will be a while (although not too long, I hope) before I can see my family in the UK”

“Meeting up with friends”

“Above all meeting friends and family, then the fun things you do with them – going to bars, pubs, restaurants, birthday parties, beaches, fiestas, concerts, football matches, beer festivals”

“Giving all my friends who work in bars, tapas bars and restaurants n Málaga who have become like family to me over the years, the hugest hug ever”

“Going to the wonderful market in Cadiz. Food, drink, social engagement!”

“Go out for a drink and meet friends and family”

“Just meeting our friends, all alive and well, for lunch in our favourite place with our favourite staff there, all alive and well!”

Just hug my friends again- especially those who work in the NHS

Having a community tapas and card-game get-together with the whole village, in the bar…. aka “normal Sunday afternoon.”

Just for someone to put their arm around me and give me a BIG hug.

EXERCISE & OUTDOORS

Taking my wee girl to the park, seeing her play with other kids again, letting her run riot after being cooped up here for so long

Going out, anywhere, with my other half. Whether for a drink, a meal or even just to the supermarket. Just together!

“Walking my dogs, poor things don’t understand what’s happening”

“Looking forward to walk along the beach, and a coffee with friends”

“Walking in the campo with my husband and dogs, paddling in the sea, sand trickling through my toes”

“Walk along the beach, walk in the hillside, go out for tapas with friends”

“Today I made a picnic in the living room, the cats made up for the wasps and ants. I’m looking forward to doing it again, in the mountains or on the beach, once this is over…

“Hiking in the mountains”

“Sailing my little dinghy that was smashed in the last storms but is now repaired and crying to get back into the med”

“We have made a long list, but beach time is high up on it, after walking in the vineyard and forest where we live”

“I had two more rescue dogs due to arrive just as we were locked down. They have been stuck in the rescue ever since, and last Friday, sadly one of my dogs with me was suddenly very ill and had to be put out of his misery. I would really like to get the two new boys here and bring some joy to my remaining hounds and me”

“Going for a walk and having a drink!!”

“Take to the hill”

“Just unlocking the door of my apartment and going onto my balcony to see my view again after so long”

“Just going out for a walk and perhaps a drive to see my special friends in Mijas and Malaga- taking it very steady though”

“Paddling in the waves”

“Going to the beach, which I never do, but because I can’t now, that’s all I want to do”

“Just simply walking along the beach”

“Hoping to be able to go for a long walk on the beach with the dogs, before they are banned again!”

“Go running again! Feel sun on my face”

“Going for a walk in the campo again”

“I bought a 37 year old Italian motorbike in September, been fettling it a bit, can’t wait to go out and give it a proper spin!”

“The freedom just to stroll along the promenade in Sitges or take the train into Barcelona will be very enjoyable”

“Going for a lovely walk with my partner and dogs along the seafront”

“Going for a long walk in the campo”

Just to go out in the sun with my husband, who at 83 has been in isolation for 5 weeks now. Miss his company when shopping, will be amazing to do that together again.

To let my toddler daughter stomp through a park and shout at the ducks. She only just started walking alone a couple of weeks before the lockdown.

“Walking on the beach, the sand between my toes and the sun on face…. followed by a sun downer or two!”

“Getting out on my motorcycle again for a long ride up the coast!”

“Walking the dogs in the mountains and going to my favourite Marbella sushi bar”

“Snorkelling”

“Running naked around the urbanisation singing the Roger Daltry song “I’m Free”

“Taking the dog for a proper walk”

“Seeing the sea again and walking on the sea front!”

“A walk outside and lunch at Nebula”

“I’m going to look at fishes”

“Run and run and run!!!”

“Taking my dog Brigitta training on Saturday mornings in Torre del Mar with the Mets Training Club”

“I can’t wait to take my kids to the beach”

“Go for a walk (the only thing I’m missing so far!)”

“I’m so looking forward to seeing my horses, they are well looked after on their Rancho home, a massive paddock to run around in, food, horsey companions, they have it all. I doubt they have given me much thought, but I will be over the moon, I’ve missed them sooooooo much!”

“To go and see the horses”

“Going for a walk in the local hills!”

“Going for a walk in the beach”

“Some outdoor exercise, followed by a coffee or a copa”

“Taking the kids for a walk on the beach”

“Return to our Canarian dance classes”

“Getting some ozone down the beach without worrying”

“I would love to go on a beautiful beach walk”

“I am looking forward to going for a walk and maybe meeting friends for coffee but no close contact”

“Going for a long walk along the paseo marítimo”

“Just to be out in nature. Hopefully in the Pyrenean air”

“Walking down to the beach for a stroll and lunch”

“Walking my dog on the beach early morning with her friends”

“To walk around the park that is directly across the street from my house”

“I will go for a family picnic at Tibidabo”

“A long walk next to the sea”

“I just want to go shopping together with my partner & stopping off at the café to meet friends. Such simple pleasures”

“For my kids to run around outside and get fresh air and exercise”

“To walk to the beach (5 minutes away, but not visible from our flat) and swim, which I’ve done virtually very day, Summer and Winter, for four years, until lockdown”

“Walking on the beach at dawn”

“Getting in my car and driving to my favourite beach or into the countryside”

“Going for a walk along the Río”

“Take a walk at our beautiful lakes just a few kms up the road, before the tourists descend on them again”

“Crossing the river Minho”

“Going for a swim in the sea”

“Going for a run through the hills of Collserola”

“Read a good book on the beach. The simple pleasures of life!”

“Just to be able to take buster my adorable shitzu for a long walk along the beach or in the woods”

“A walk …anywhere”

Just enjoy the beauty of nature and respect it more than ever.

TRAVELLING

I’m really looking forward to travelling to see my kids AND giving my poor OH some space although he has coped with me really well!!!

“Take a slow journey through Italy, top to toe, from Venice to Sicily, stopping in my favourite places”

“Find someone to look after my animals, drive to a 5 star Hotel in the Algarve, Portugal, put my feet up, and get waited on hand and foot, no expense spared”

Can’t wait to go camping again. All that wonderful outdoors!

GETTING BACK TO SPAIN

Coming back home to Spain to be with my mum and dad.

“I was supposed to be in the UK for 5 weeks but now trapped here so looking forward to getting back to Spain”

“Driving to Spain in our motorhome -we would be there now but for the corona virus. We miss Spain terribly”

“Just visiting Spain again would be nice. I left many years ago, with the thought that I would look forward to returning when I retire. Since then, Brexit made this seem unlikely, and the coronavirus seems to have added to the barriers”

“I am looking forward to returning to my home in Olvera. My son and I were due to fly on 17th March but by then it would have been illegal for our friend to drive the 90 minutes each way to pick us up at Málaga. We are in Scotland and unless the UK Government put in place a lockdown similar to Spain’s I fear it will be a long time before flights resume. Today is Day 22 that Niall and I have been at home”

 

Being able to get to our Spanish home as stuck in UK.

PERSONAL CARE

Getting my hair done!!!

 

“Having my acrylic nails redone, I look like Edward Scissorhands!”

“Definitely going to the barbers immediately. Haircut situation is not so great right now!”

“Having my hair done and getting on a plane to see my family”

“The first thing I’ll do when this is all over is make appointments to look and feel better. Then go for a very, very long walk”

GOING BACK TO WORK

Going back to the job I love & am so lucky to have, playing the violin in an orchestra here & going out for a massive run surrounded by the poppy fields of Castilla under the big blue sky!

“Going back to work!!”

“Getting back to work with my fantastic colleagues and wonderful students”

“We will be able to open up our shop, but as for customers, well that’s another matter”

EVERYTHING ELSE

A walk in countryside, doing my stint in the charity shop and meeting friends. Normality.

“Going for a San Tomasso pizza, getting together with my art and hiking groups”

“Curry, haircut, iced coffee on the beach, helping my daughter move house”

“Getting a new battery for my watch!”

“Getting my hair and nails done, going out for a MDD with friends, going to the library for starters!”

“Putting together a sofa bed from lkea. The first piece is just too heavy to get up the stairs and l obviously can’t get help at the moment”

“A coffee at the beach bar with friends. Walking down to the town. Going out in summer evenings and dancing the night away. Just getting back to having fun in the sun”

“Taking a wander to the beach. A much-needed swim in the sea and hugs for friends at our local mojito bar in a converted VW camper van. Simple pleasures”

“Talk about Brexit”

“Play drums”

“Going to the supermarket without feeling stressed”

“I want to buy a supe-duper fly screen!!!! I’m not going to look at price for one, I’m going to buy the one I fancy”

“Move into my new house”

“Getting out of my prison. Because of my health I have not spoken face to face with anyone for 4 weeks. I am lucky I have a house and garden but I just want to walk out the gate and go to the supermarket”

“Not think going out to my essential work will bring the virus into my husband who is vulnerable”

“To reconnect with real life again!!”

“Keep on learning, working and looking after my love ones”

“To walk on the beach once more have a tea cake and a meal out enjoy the sun once more go to the garden centre too”

“Go for a delicious ‘racion’ in our favourite bar, socialise with other adults and have conversations with people face-to-face, kids to see their friends again, go out dancing, ride my horse, go for trips out in car”

“Lunch in our favourite place with our favourite staff there, all alive and well!”

“Subverting Brexit”

“Going round all the city centre fashion shops, I love that and I’m really missing it, I do that twice a week at least, websites just aren’t the same!

“Going for a really long walk with my dog & taking him to the beach again. The beach is always exciting, even in normal times when he goes quite regularly. I can’t wait to see his reaction when he finally gets to go again. Also, knowing that I can get on a plane to go and see my family in England (or vice versa). They should have been coming here next week”

 

Just to walk on the beach, to meet friends for tapas and watch the world go by, take a trip to the garden centre and buy flowers. Simple things that mean so much.

See my parents and get married. We have had to postpone our May wedding but plan to have a small registry ceremony once this is over and big celebration next year.

Your wonderful responses helped our Chair, Sue Wilson, write an article on life after lockdown for The Local Spain. You can read Sue’s article, based on your comments here: What’s the first thing you’ll do when Spain’s lockdown is lifted?

Bremain Members in Lockdown

Bremain Members in Lockdown

The following selection of statements express, in their own words, some thoughts, anxieties & concerns expressed by Bremain members with regard to the coronavirus pandemic and the lockdown in Spain.

“I worry that with my husband & I both being over 65, we would not have access to ventilators, should the need arise – they are in short supply & would likely only be offered to younger patients.”

“With my husband still working, I am alone with the kids all day. I am finding it difficult to juggle their schooling with my own work.”

“I am worried about my family in UK – especially my daughter, who has asthma. I would rather the UK had the same tough restrictions we have here.”

“I run a small local business and am not eligible for any of the assistance being offered by the Spanish government, unless I close down the company. I’m worried that if schools remain shut until September it will be very difficult to get back up and running at work, even if there are clients to sell to.”

“I have had 2 trips to the UK cancelled already, & I worry about my elderly mum living in a residential care home. It’s difficult not knowing when, or perhaps if, I will see her again.”

“My main concern is that the UK are not taking things as seriously as Spain, & not enforcing compliance with lockdown. I’m very concerned for older parents/relatives & sad for cancelled visits, but just want them all to stay home and stay well.”

“My main concern is for my mental health at the moment.  Whilst in my house things seem okay, and I appreciate how lucky I am to have a garden, but when I first ventured out to buy bread recently, I felt like a criminal. Now when I go to the supermarket, I feel incredibly sad.”

“I am very worried about my family & friends in the UK, & I hate the fact that I am unable to visit them.”

“Who knows how long the lockdown may last or the long-term effect on so many towns & villages that rely totally on tourism.”

“Living in an apartment, my main concern is for my mental health. I have used running as my main form of exercise to combat it for the last 2 years. Now all we have is a small balcony with 2 hours of sunlight a day.”

“I travel a lot between Spain & UK for business, which has now ground to a halt, causing our small start-up to lose £1000’s in revenue.”

“Although I am used to doing some work from home, it is strange having my wife & son in the house all day, every day. I am concerned mainly for my son’s physical & mental health as despite all our efforts, it is boring for him & he needs fresh air & exercise.”

“The first concern is that family & friends are okay, but I’m also concerned about the impact on the economy & what comes after the virus is over.” 

“I run a hair & beauty salon business, which is currently closed & unable to operate. Waiting for information on government help, while still having to pay rent on the premises, is crippling.”

“I live just across the Portuguese border, & now cannot access facilities in Spain, which I rely on. This has affected my shopping, education, exercise & entertainment.”

“I own a relocation business. Not many people are able to relocate during lockdown & I wonder how long this may continue.”

“It’s difficult living on a development with young children.  We overlook a huge communal area that they usually use often, but they can only stare at now.”

“I am hoping that rapid tests will be available soon as I have had some mild symptoms.”

“We can’t go out to exercise in Spain, quite rightly, yet it’s still happening in the UK.”

“When this is all over, how do we to return to “normal?”. If the infections/deaths reach their peak and we enter a downward trend, then when and how will we begin to lift the restrictions?”  

“I live in La Linea & work across the border in Gibraltar. My company won’t allow working from home. I am not an essential worker, so I get questioned by the police every day and I am scared.”

“My partner is a nursing auxiliary at one of the local hospitals, assigned to A&E, so she’s one of the first people to come into contact with new patients.  The effect of her work on our everyday life has been quite dramatic.  We’re having to keep apart, whether eating, sleeping or watching a TV program.”

“Isolation has left me feeling lonely at times and it has been challenging adapting to working from home, but I think it is the right move and I’m grateful that I can still work.”

“I’ve been made temporarily unemployed from my teaching job so my main concerns are financial. The system is inundated with ERTE applications & my employer has no idea how long it will take for our applications to be processed.”

“My daughter’s education is a worry as there has been no notification of any online classes. Apparently, schools won’t open until June at the earliest.”

“I own an estate agency & my concern is for my staff – we are a close family business, & I worry about their future as well as my own.”

“My boyfriend’s family are from Madrid. His father is recovering from lung surgery & I am extremely concerned for his safety. He is locking himself in his house with his wife & they can’t even leave to go shopping as it would be too risky.”

“Both me & my boyfriend work in hotels – even after the crisis passes, we will not be able to restart our jobs due to all the cancellations. I don’t have a permanent job so am unable to get any financial help.”

“I have worked in tourism all my life. My principal worry is the economic situation. Where I live, almost everyone is involved in tourism & obviously 2020 looks like it will be a nonstarter.”

“I’m self-employed and it was a bit of a shock to wake up & find I had lost all my work.  I love my job & worked hard to build up my business.”

“My young children & I live in a city flat with no garden so it’s really tough for them.”

“It’s a worrying time, I’m a self-employed dog groomer & my husband works in a bar – neither of us can work, we have a young son to feed, with no money coming in & rent to pay.”

“My heart goes out to the many in tourism with small businesses, who, like myself, have now lost every single booking for March & April, with cancellations pouring in on a daily basis for future months too.”

“The Government response is appropriate and necessary! I’m complying with lockdown by using the time to re-connect with my partner & finally get around to all those ‘been meaning to do projects” to improve my home.”  

“I am concerned for my family here who are all worried financially as can no longer work & have young families to support. They are wondering how to pay bills, rent, etc. They are not sure what help they will receive.”

“I am used to working from home but having the kids home from school whilst working at the kitchen table is not ideal. I am trying to make the most of this by enjoying the time I have with my kids & doing craft activities with them.”

“My biggest concern is for my partner & her colleagues who work at a local hospital. We have to keep a safe distance from one another at home, which is not a natural situation.”

“I run a language school, so overnight we were shut down. Getting hundreds of students onto an online platform has been a nightmare. If this doesn’t work & the lockdown continues, I will have to fire all my staff. If we have no income, I don’t know how long we could last.”

 

“As I’d be classed as ‘vulnerable’, I’m grateful for the actions of the Spanish government.”

“The hardest thing is not seeing our family as we are not allowed out.”

“I feel the government here really cares & everyone is working together to try to get through this with as few deaths as possible. I worry about the economic & social after-effects.”

“I feel very relieved to be in lockdown. I feel as though I’m in a much better situation here than many of my family & friends in the UK who see little danger ahead.”

“The UK is depending on the good sense of the public & will get into serious problems resulting in unnecessary deaths. Advice, & reliance on everybody’s good sense is not enough. If speed limits were only advisory many would ignore them. COVID-19 advice is exactly the same, Spain is correct in enforcing the lockdown.”

“Isolation is not a great way to spend the day but it’s preferable to being dead!”

“I’m stuck in UK! I was due back to finalise my residencia in Spain & am now worried I might not manage it before end of year.”

“We all need to pull together and support each other.”

“I am enjoying the clear skies, lack of airplanes & the reduction in pollution.”

“I am concerned about the number of people who are ignoring the guidelines. They are putting others at risk.”

“I feel for those who are lonely and am so sorry for those losing their income & will find it a big struggle. There are a lot of people with worse problems than I have.”

“I miss the physical contact of friends & family. On-line is fine to compensate if you are not able to see them but not all the elderly have this facility.”

“I am bored!”

“I love that people are finding the bright sides. How people behave in crises like these says a lot about them.”

Coronavirus Info & Links

Coronavirus Info & Links

Coronavirus Info & Links

Bremain in Spain has collated a wealth of information and advice to keep you updated throughout the current Coronavirus pandemic.

This information includes basic protective methods, emergency contact numbers, and a host of useful links to reliable sources. There is also advice and suggestions on how to keep your families safe, sane, healthy, and entertained during your quarantine. We will continue to add new and relevant information as the crisis develops and welcome feedback from our members on how to improve our offering. Please stay home, stay connected, and stay safe!

You can download the PDF below.