Biggest challenge of a lifetime

We are facing the biggest health challenge of our lifetimes with the coronavirus outbreak and we must all do our bit by following the Government guidance by staying at home to help protect lives.

Our NHS services across Edinburgh are under incredible pressure and I want to pay tribute to each and every single health worker currently on the frontline fighting the crisis. I am delighted that charges for parking for

NHS staff at the Royal Infirmary Edinburgh have been scrapped for three months. Anything we can do to support our wonderful NHS staff during this is welcome and that is just the start.

In order to try and beat this devastating virus as soon as we possibly can, we need to follow the government advice we have been given on social distancing. Hopefully, the sooner we all apply the guidelines, the sooner our lives should return to normal.

Of course we need to maintain social contact through other than face to face means. Whether by telephone, email or online, we can keep in touch and look after each other.

Of course, as always, social media and other forms of contact are no answer to everything! Don’t let them take over your life – maybe read a book you’ve not had time to, organise your home, clear out quality things you don’t need by putting them aside to donate to charity once this is all over. Everyone will have ideas of their own.

It is not an easy adjustment for anyone and that is why it is vital we all look out for each other. By showing kindness and supporting our communities, we can come through this together.