End of working week thoughts, has anyone put together a coronavirus policy tracker? We know about the core metrics of tests etc, but this would actually compile all government interventions in different affected policy areas...
Thus for example we have the entire NHS response including availability of equipment, tests, beds etc. The wider impact on health, surgery cancelled etc. Broader social care impacts. Mental and physical health in isolation, which many are concerned about.
Then you have the entire education system, schools largely closed, universities online, impact on education and exams, but equally potentially on the physical health of children, both from lack of exercise and potentially those not getting school meals.
Courts and justice I've been following through the work of others, but as far as I can gather most serious trials are now being halted, not sure what happens to more minor cases. There's also an issue with prisons and coronavirus.
The economy - announcements to date on supporting business and individuals in various ways, more expected today. There's soon going to be a major impact on employment figures, GDP to follow, none of which is going to be pretty.
Food availability and supply chains. Supermarkets shopping has become one of the major pastimes of the UK in the last week, with concerns about availability of some products on a day-to-day basis. Equal concerns over the vulnerable and their access to food.
Probably much more I'm forgetting. But just to emphasise what a huge public policy challenge we are facing. Then the messaging on top. Easy to fail to fully get a grip on such an agenda - the size makes it hard to comprehend in all honesty. But we need to do so.
