This crisis has brought out the best in us

As we move through phase two, the lockdown measures become a little easier to bear. The past couple of months have asked a lot of us all and we have had to make many sacrifices, whether large or small.

For many, like myself, one of the most difficult has been not being able to see family and friends or connect with our usual support networks. I know that for many grandparents, being separated from their families has been especially hard.

But no matter how difficult it has been, we know it has been the right thing to do as we see the number of recorded cases, hospital admissions and Covid related deaths fall. I know that this will bring small comfort to those grieving a loved one and my thoughts are with them.

I am aware, however, that the new measures will be widely welcomed. Our progress remains fragile, which is why we must ease the lockdown measures extremely carefully.

Up to three households can now meet, though still limited to eight folk at one time. Places of worship can reopen for individual prayer. And single occupant households, or single parents, can now form an“extended household”and be treated as a member of that household, a move that will mean a lot also to single grandparents.

What I think has become clear over the lockdown period is how just integral social connections are to our lives. How nourishing those relationships with family, friends and our community are and how challenging it is when that support – practical or emotional- is suddenly taken away.

What has been particularly encouraging through this period is the outstanding volunteer response that we have seen emerge across the Stirling area in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Whether it has been dropping off supplies next door, checking in on vulnerable neighbours, making face masks or keeping someone company over the phone, volunteers have been part of a crucial and successful nationwide effort to keep folk safe.

Earlier this month, we celebratedVolunteers’Week and expressed our appreciation for those in their community who had gone the extra mile to support us and make the challenges we have faced a little easier. We also celebrated Carers Week, a week to raise awareness of the incredible work carers and young carers do to support those they care for. Caring is often chronically underappreciated by society more widely, though I know it means the world to those who are cared for by their loved ones. Recognising the challenges faced by carers and their resilience, especially through the pandemic, is an important way of showing our support.

I am pleased that the Scottish Government has also recognised this and that carers across Stirling will receive an additional £230 coronavirus payment. The Scottish Government has provided a substantial amount of financial assistance throughout the pandemic, supporting local businesses and our communities. More than

2000 businesses in Stirling have received £19m in funding and grants, while over £2m has been invested locally in the Food and Wellbeing Funds, among others, to help tackle the impact of the crisis.

While this has been a time of real hardship and difficulty, we have seen the best of our community just when we have needed it most. It is my hope that we continue to strengthen this community spirit, so that we may all continue to connect to one another and benefit from it for after this pandemic has passed.

Our progress through this remains fragile