The government’s announcement on Sunday 10 May means many of us are still going to be spending lots of time at home, so we are sharing recommendations from staff and students to keep you entertained.

Television and film

Our Netflix accounts have probably seen a spike in usage over the past two months, but have you checked out these series yet?

Several staff members recommended BBC’s latest series Normal People, an adaptation of the novel by Sally Rooney. It follows two young adults as they leave college for university and grapple with the challenges faced when moving away from home and growing up.

For the keen travellers missing their adventures, the Race Across the World series on BBC might be of interest. Dr Sophie Crouchman, Senior Planning Officer also suggested David Attenborough documentaries, joking that they also double up as home-schooling!

Some people have been using this time to re-watch series including Game of Thrones and Peaky Blinders. If you missed the hype the first time around, now might be your chance to catch up.

Another popular suggestion amongst staff was the new Disney Plus streaming service. Not only does it have hundreds of options for kids, but the Star Wars films were a winner for many too.

Podcasts

Podcasts have become increasingly popular over the past few years and now is the perfect time to find some favourites.

Director of Library Services, Emma Walton, recommended Louis Theroux’s new podcast Grounded where he calls entertainment legends including Helena Bonham Carter for an informal chat.

Head of Legal Services, Samuel McGinty, suggested the BBC Breakfast Show with Greg James as it provides a much-needed laugh.

My personal recommendation is How to Fail with Elizabeth Day. The journalist interviews famous faces and asks them to discuss three failures they’ve had in their lives and how they overcame these. It’s very interesting to hear about those we often see as perfect opening up about the challenges they have faced to get where they are today.

Books

Reading is an activity many often say they don’t have time for in their busy lives. The slower nature of life that some might be experiencing right now creates an opportunity to get back into reading and Loughborough staff did not disappoint with a long list of recommendations.

Student Ambassador Coordinator, Jess Excell suggested books by Marian Keyes for family fiction and Lesley Kara’s gripping novel The Rumour.

Head of Creative and Print Services, Alison Freer, recommended Where the Crawdads Sing, a murder mystery and coming of age story by Delia Owens whilst Planning Officer, Amanda Silverwood, suggested some more nostalgic classics including Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfield.

Several staff members also recommended psychological thriller, The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides.

Don’t forget that LU Arts is running its Book Club online with a new book to discuss every six weeks.

Keeping yourself entertained during lockdown can help to keep your mind occupied, easing some of the anxiety and stress that you may be experiencing. There is further support available from the University for staff and students should you need it.