A burgeoning movement led by the nans of Hertfordshire is encouraging young people to socialise safely amid growing fears of a lockdown.
The movement was started by Hertfordshire resident and grandmother of four, Margaret Hansard, who took to TikTok with what she described as a #Nantervention. Her video was posted to the social media platform, popular with the under 25s, in a bid to convince her grandchildren to socialise responsibly, protect her safety, and prevent another lockdown.
The inspirational video quickly spread through the local community and was recreated by numerous nans, united in their hope of encouraging others in the area to do the same.
The simple dance video reminds grandchildren to follow Covid-safe behaviours, including social distancing, wearing a mask, regular hand washing and keeping to the Rule of Six. To date, the videos have been shared over 95 times across TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, and the #Nantervention is gaining momentum with the videos already reaching 533,413 people.
The Hertfordshire Health Protection Board, the multi-agency body charged with managing and responding to COVID-19 outbreaks in Hertfordshire, has confirmed it is backing the campaign.
Joining forces with the county’s nans they are piloting a specialised community safety presence, nicknamed the ‘SWAT team’ (or Seniors With A TikTok), who will be out and about encouraging 18-25-year olds to socialise responsibly.
Jim McManus, Hertfordshire’s Director of Public Health, said: “We love that these nans are taking direct action, and having seen the popularity of the Nantervention movement on social media we were very happy to lend support to the cause.
“We are piloting the ‘SWAT team’ to see if grandparents on the ground, spreading the word and keeping an eye out in our communities, will help us reduce the spread of coronavirus in the county. Most people sit up a little straighter when nan’s around, so this might just be the reminder people need!
“We know there is still some confusion around current government guidelines, and this is about making sure young people know how they can socialise safely. The message here is very much, yes, go out and enjoy yourselves, but do it safely and help protect yourselves and your loved ones – including grandparents!”
