STREETS DESERTED AS PUBLIC TAKE HEED
Stay-at-home warnings are being observed
The streets of West Lothian have been eerily quiet as the reality of life under lockdown begins to bite.
The vast majority of people have paid heed to the message to stay at home and save lives.
And many shops, pubs and restaurants have kept their doors closed. Parks and open spaces are also deserted as children have been kept indoors and the public told not to make journeys unless vital.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said the strict measures are necessary to stop the spread of the disease.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the number of cases in Lothian stood at 269, with the Scottish total at 1993. There had been 60 deaths as of 2pm on Tuesday.
But despite these gloomy statistics, the people of West Lothian have proved yet again they can rise to any challenge to support one another and spread some cheer.
More and more stories have emerged of local people rallying round to help those in need and an army of volunteers have been making sure the vulnerable in our communities are looked after.
West Lothian Council bosses have thanked t h e p u b l i c fo r their patience and understanding during the coronavirus crisis and heaped praise on staff.
The council’s chief executive, Graham Hope, said customers’ support during this turbulent time was appreciated after the local authority was forced into closing or stopping many services due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
He said: “The impact that this unprecedented public emergency has had on our services has been immense.
“I appreciate some of the changes are not always going to be popular but they are in line with Government guidance and are designed to protect members of the public and staff.
“The feedback we’ve received from members of the public through email and social media has been incredibly supportive and I’d like to thank customers for those messages of support.
“This isn’t an easy time for anyone, including our staff, and the support and understanding shown is really appreciated.”
He also thanked staff for their efforts.
He said: “I’ve been contacting staff regularly to acknowledge their i n c redible suppor t , understanding and commitment.
“I’m incredibly proud of our staff at this very challenging time. Many of them are working tirelessly to keep services going at a time when society has changed beyond recognition.
“We have many staff worki n g f rom home and others working in care facilities, schools, operational services, as well as co- ordination and support roles.
“Despite this situation, all council staff are continuing to provide vital services, day in day out, and all play a key role. My colleagues should be incredibly proud of the contribution they are making in the fight against COVID-19.
“We can promise our customers that we will continue to work together to protect our community.
“I’d urge West Lothian residents to continue to follow the advice and guidance issued by government and health professionals.”
Council leader Lawrence Fi t z p a t r i c k p ra i s e d council employees for their hard work.
And he also praised the “unsung heroes” of West Lothian.
He said: “The magnitude of this public health emergency cannot be underestimated.
“These are truly unique times and I’ve certainly never seen anything like this in my lifetime.
“I’m sure that applies to the vast majority of people.
“I’d firstly like to thank all the council staff that are working to protect and help others.
“There are too many to mention but their efforts and commitment have been immense and will continue over the coming weeks and months.
“Th e re a re ma n y unsung heroes out there, volunteering and playing their part in helping others. My message to them is thank you.
“The Clap for Carers was incredibly emotional and poignant, and was a wonderful way to acknowledge the role NHS and Social Care staff play.
“As we navigate through these difficult times, I’m sure we are all thinking about the NHS workers.
“We are incredibly grateful for the role they play in helping to protect us.
“It is incredibly humbling to see how people are pulling together at this time.
“Please continue to be kind to one another and offer support, understanding and solidarity.
“Look out for those vulnerable and take care of yourselves and each other.
“To everyone in West Lothian, you are in my thoughts and in my prayers.”