School plans are in place

Parents concerned about potential school closures were this week being reassured that contingency planning is in place.

Discussions between South Lanarkshire Council and the Scottish and UK Governments were ongoing while schools remained open as normal.

Some parents have already taken the decision to remove their children from schools and keep them at home to avoid coming into contact with coronavirus.

On Monday, March 16, a raft of new measures were introduced to try and contain the outbreak including advising the public to limit social contact.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Life as we know it will change in the coming weeks and months, but our goal is to protect lives.

“We are facing an unprecedented situation that will require major societal change if we are to protect people, especially those most at risk and our NHS.

“While it will cause some disruption and be difficult for us all, it will help us to prepare for the virus and to protect ourselves and each other in the long run.

“We need your help to slow the spread of the infection.

“People have a vital role to play in helping us contain this infection and I urge everyone in Scotland to follow the latest health and travel advice, and follow basic hygiene precautions.”

It is understood that the council’s contingency plans for school closures include advice for teachers and parents as well as what may happen with exams due to take place in May.

A spokesperson for South Lanarkshire Council said: “We continue to follow advice from the Scottish and UK governments.

“Our discussions with them include contingency planning for potential developments in education and other services.”