Impacts on Vulnerable Groups

That's the main problem, not just the three-day lockdown. I work in tourism and am losing money since weeks and there is no end in sight. I work now 5 hours each week as well as my colleagues.

I lost my job. The lockdown cost me my job. I'm a Kiwi so don't qualify for any of the assistance available.

Can only claim for loss of work for 3 days, but in total lost work for two weeks.

The repercussions of a snap lockdown extends longer than three days…small businesses suffer in many ways for weeks after.

My mental state can't cope with any more of this, enough is enough… The damage to the small businesses and the people that own them is huge.

You can throw money at it and that's a huge thing particularly for casual workers, but it's the emotional toll that's really impacting.

Impacts on Vulnerable Groups

The lockdown had different impacts, with disproportionate and varied effects on vulnerable groups. The survey data indicated that 1.5% of respondents (22 of 1475) reported an increase in domestic and family violence (DFV). As reported above, in 54.5% of these cases this coincided with a loss of income. Almost all respondents who indicated that they had experienced an increase in DFV (91% or 20) reported a decline in mental health related to anxiety, stress, loneliness and reduced hope. In addition, 91% of respondents in this group recommended ceasing lockdowns as a future health response, citing the barriers presented by lockdown to carrying out protective behaviours.

Impacts on people dependent on in-home care were also noted. In total, 67 people (5%) reported disruptions to in-home care. Within this group, 35% (24) reported a lack of access to groceries or supplies, 9% (6) were experiencing increased domestic violence, and 35% (24) reported increased levels of alcohol consumption.