On 18 March 2020, people considered vulnerable started to work from home, where possible. This included those over 70, people with lung or heart diseases, and those with conditions that affect their immune system. People living with them were also encouraged to work from home, or to distance themselves from them as much as possible.

On 23 March everyone else was told to stay at home too. This was to help the NHS to avoid being overwhelmed, not to stop the virus.

Initially, Bristol had one of the lowest overall rates of the virus in the country. It still had a huge impact on health and wellbeing in the city though. By November, and Lockdown 2, local rates were above average.

People who contracted Coronavirus were affected very differently. A disproportionate number of deaths were people of colour, and people on low incomes.

Anxiety levels were high, though some people enjoyed a slower pace of life. Local mental health provisions included Bristol Mind, The Samaritans, and Off The Record.