We’ve all seen the empty shelves in the supermarkets and local shops. People have been panic-buying over the last few weeks, due to the coronavirus pandemic – and they’re just not stopping. 

Consumer psychologist Kate Nightingale recently explained the psychology behind stockpiling to Stylist, saying: “When people are reminded about their mortality, they become more impulsive. This can result in overspending.”

This of course means that toilet roll, period products, cupboard food and fresh goods are just not available to everybody – because people are clearing the shelves before others even have a chance. The reality is that foodbanks are reporting shortages and people are left without.

The situation has compelled one critical nurse to share an emotional but incredibly important video message with people online.  

BBC Breakfast shared the message from Dawn Bilbrough, a critical care nurse who couldn’t buy any food in the supermarket after a 48-hour shift.

She said: “I’m a critical care nurse, I’ve just finished 48 hours of work. I just wanted to get some stuff in for the next 48 hours. There’s no fruit, there’s no vegetables. I just don’t know how I’m supposed to stay healthy.”

She continued: “And those people… people are just stripping the shelves of basic foods. You just need to stop it. Because people like me: they’re going to be looking after you when you’re at your lowest. Just stop it. Please.”

Yesterday we reported that the most helpful thing we can do for NHS workers right now is stay at home to stop the spread of coronavirus. But, as Dawn points out, it’s also worth remembering that stripping the supermarkets of food means we’re taking essentials away from the very people who are helping us.

Images: Getty