The lockdown and social distancing rules have changed the way we go about our day to day business, but for a demographic of women in our community, this time can induce more fear and uncertainty than most will experience. Pregnancy and childbirth in Forbes can be uncertain on an average day, with resources, staff and facilities stretched to accommodate women in Forbes and surrounding towns. It is not uncommon for women with high-risk pregnancies to be sent to Dubbo and Orange to give birth.

Now women face the additional challenges of giving birth during a pandemic. Birthing in lockdown has been met with both confusion and praise. Praise for the exceptional work that the midwives, staff and Obstetricians at Forbes Hospital do, and the care they provide to women during their most vulnerable time. There is also confusion surrounding the rules once women return home. While in hospital, the rules are clear, no visitors except for one support person. However, upon returning home, one Forbes mother of two found herself stuck.

Recovering from a Caesarean delivery with a one-year-old at home and a partner who works away for days at a time, Forbes woman Umima Austral found herself confused and concerned. Relying on family for care and assistance meant she needed visitors in her home, “Are they (the police) going to come and knock on my door be- cause there are four cars parked at my house?” she wondered.

Many have criticised both a lack of transparency and enforcement around lockdown rules and as it stands, seems to be a learning experience for both the public and law enforcement. In the coming weeks and months, we should see a rhythm take place and a sense of normality gained as the Forbes community adjusts to life in lockdown.

Businesses across the Orange electorate are being encouraged to join the fight against COVID-19 and start producing much needed medical equipment for NSW. Member for Orange Phil Donato MP said the unprecedented global demand on much needed medical supplies had seen traditional suppliers now unable to fill urgent orders to service NSW.

“Hand sanitiser, handwash, gloves, cleaning products, protective clothing, masks, eyewear and paper products are now in such high demand,” Phil said.

“The NSW Government is now calling on local businesses in the Orange electorate to convert their production lines to make these products to fill the gap. The products required urgently include hand sanitiser, handwash, gloves, cleaning products, protective clothing, paper products and masks.”

Phil said this was also a great way for businesses who may be seeing a downturn in revenue due to COVID-19 to adapt and remain strong during these uncertain times.

“This is a great way for businesses to diversify and keep as many workers in a job as possible. Businesses who are able to join the fight against COVID-19 are urged to register their interest at www.nsw.gov.au.”

With the sudden and recent changes to rules and regulations affecting businesses in the Forbes Shire, and Australia as a whole, there has been much talk concerning job loss and a lack of resources Forbes residents would endure if business are forced to shut down in the face of an economic recession. The University of South Australia’s business growth expert, Professor Jana Matthews, has urged business to reassess their current model in order to survive these challenging times.

Jana says that the survival of business is dependent on the changes business owners make in adapting to the shift in the market. One crucial way in which Forbes businesses can maintain themselves is by “doubling down on winners,” meaning, business owners must assess which services or products are in demand, and identify a demographic of existing customers to target their marketing and focus on providing their most in demand services.

Social media has and will continue to play a fundamental role in shaping the way in which money and services flow throughout the community. By changing the way in which a service or product is offered, that is in line with the restrictions in place, employers are also able to retain staff by identifying and transferring their skills and resources to new positions.

Professor Jana Matthews goes on to advise businesses to identify “weak spots” by thinking critically to identify where the first cuts need to be made. It is time for business owners to lead with both their brains and hearts and have the courage to enter unchartered territory and implement change, no matter how daunting it may seem.

Forbes resident Tracey Mowbray is maintaining high spirits in isolation by getting stuck into the front garden.

As government guidelines and laws constrict to curb the spread of COVID-19, more people are taking social distancing measures and following the advice to stay home unless attending an essential task. While this is a commendable sacrifice to ensure the health of individuals and the community, the limited social contact can impact our mental health. Isolation may trigger feelings of loneliness, anxiety, helplessness and depression, however, there are ways to protect and boost your mental health and immunity.

It is important to keep busy, if you have a hobby or household project you have been putting off, now is your chance to start and complete it. If you have always wanted to learn a new language or skill there are apps and websites that can be accessed for free and put the information you need right at your fingertips. Skillshare, Duolingo, Masterclass and Scholastic are offering free virtual classes during this time. Feeling that your time is being optimised can reduce feelings of anxiety and helplessness, so keeping routine with scheduled projects and hobbies can contribute to positive feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction.

If news and social media increase your anxiety, digital distancing may help to alleviate stress while giving more time to do more healthy and productive things like reading a book, practicing yoga or even dancing. It is also important to reach out to friends and family. No one is in this alone, so call friends, neighbours, family and talk. Hosting a digital party through a video conference can also lessen the social isolation people may feel.

There are many mental health services that can be accessed from home, offering phone and online services. Beyond Blue, Kids Helpline, MensLine Australia, Open Arms, Lifeline and Suicide Call Back Services are just a few available in Australia. The most effective way to receive mental health support help is to ask for help.