A letter to all young people from Hull's Young Mayor

Message of support from Gaby, Hull’s Young Mayor

To all the young people around Hull,

This is a very difficult time for the community and individuals within it. That’s why we all need to do our part to lessen the impact. Firstly I would ask you to make sure to educate yourself and the people around you on what the Virus is and how to stop it from spreading. Watch the local news, listen to the guidance given by professionals and follow it as much as you can. Secondly, please stay inside. This is the best and most helpful thing that we can do as the less people you are in contact with, the less chance of you contracting the virus and spreading it to others. Only go to the shop for necessary items and while there follow the rules and guidelines that are given by the shop workers.

Lockdown can be very hard for us as young people, as schools have closed which means that many trips, events and proms have been cancelled or postponed. We are all upset that we are unable to have our prom or the leavers assemble. I felt annoyed at first when we had to postpone The Love Staying Safe Campaign, as I hadn’t read up on the situation and I hadn’t realised how serious everything was. That is why I believe that we should all be reading the provided information. Even though this is a horrible situation I think that social distancing and isolation have helped us to see how valuable our friendships and relationships are and how much other people effect our lives.

During social isolation it is important to look after ourselves physically and emotionally. Isolation can negatively affect people of all ages, including teenagers. We also need to take action to keep ourselves healthy. Please, talk to the people living with you try to spend more time with your families during this difficult time. Keep in contact with your friends as that can help your emotional health. To find more tips and information on how to improve your wellbeing visit https://www.howareyoufeeling.org.uk/ . On this site you will find advice for young people, parents and carers, and resources that can help you to keep emotionally well.

Stay safe,

Gabriela Surdyk (The Young Mayor of Hull)