Zero time for myself

I have always lived in London. I have a five bedroom house. I've lived here for 26 years and brought up my family in this house. I now live alone.

During the lockdown my son, his wife and my two grandchildren have moved in with me so that I'm not alone and I can help with childcare while they both work from home.

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My grandchildren watching Peppa Pig

In what ways has the coronavirus pandemic changed the way you use your home?

My home has now become a nursery for my two grandchildren aged almost 3 and 18 months. An office for my son and his wife who work from home.

My garden has become a playground for my grandchildren to play in.

My kitchen table has become art and craft work space for my grandchildren.

My grandchildren painting in the garden

How do you feel about your home? How have these feelings changed?

I've always loved my home and I love it even more now then ever. It has always been a place that has made me feel safe from the outside world, more now then ever

How does staying at home affect your relationships?

I'm in touch more now with families and friends by phone then before. Obviously I miss seeing people face to face even though I do FaceTime but it's not the same as physical contact.

I miss seeing my partner who lives and cares for his elderly mother and is still having to go out to work.

What do you appreciate most about your home? What do you find frustrating?

I appreciate everything about my home. I enjoy gardening and find not being able to buy and plant flowers frustrating.

How has lockdown changed your habits or routines at home?

Lockdown has completely changed my life. Having my son and his family living with me has completely changed my routine. My whole day revolves round the family needs. I have zero time for myself. I have started watching a lot of Peppa Pig and Fireman Sam.

How is your sense of home affected by your neighbours or those living nearby?

Neighbours are friendlier, everyone is looking out for each other.

My son set up a home cinema in the garden under the gazebo

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