I've had one too...its years since I finished treatment (breast cancer). My GP doesn't understand why I got the letter. 

I had breast cancer about 8 years ago and  asked my doctor if I needed to shield. He said no as it's been a few years since. Now I'm wondering if I need one too as I work in a school where no social distancing will happen if schools open early June. 

Hi there / I finished my treatment almost a year ago for TNBC - I also had a sheilding letter 27 April- I rang my docs and they had no idea why I recurved letter and said they'd try to find out - anyway like you sunshine8 I teach too and am now worried about returning to school when they ask us too - surely NHS much know why they sent the letter- I'm not sure what to do - I feel fine thank goodness but this letter has started me thinking !! Take care everyone stay strong x

Hi,

Some members of staff at the hospital where I am currently working received similar centrally produced letters and were told in no uncertain terms that they should ignore them.

Meanwhile, my Dad who is in his 80s with three long term conditions each of which would justify such a letter didn't receive one! 

The NHS isn't sending out these letters based on superior medical knowledge, they are automated letters being sent out based on algorithms fed with incomplete and out of date data. 

I'm not saying ignore them completely but please don't be alarmed by them, if in doubt ask your GP for advice. and remember that having a history of cancer doesn't make you vulnerable in itself.  It all depends on the state of your immune system which is compromised by recent exposure to chemo or radio therapy.

Best wishes

Dave