Rainbows of hope

Rainbows have become our symbol of hope in these uncertain times. We are all now fully aware of the importance of some of our lowest paid workers, like NHS staff and other equally essential frontline workers, who put their lives on the line daily in the fight against Covid-19.

The rainbows, crafted by children of all ages, are proudly displayed in council homes, tenement flats and large mansions, and quite rightly so.

The rainbow tribute appears to have orginated in Puglia in southern Italy where images bearing the morale-boosting phrase 'Andrà tutto bene' (everthing will be alright) started to appear in early March and spread across the country and then Europe. We can't underestimate the bravery and contribution made by NHS staff and other frontline workers, and it is uplifting to see children and families voice their support through these paintings and drawings while out on our daily walks.

The Scottish Government announced plans to find a way forward as the situation improves. A Government paper says that a "new normal" will be necessary and that some changes to everyday life will remain in place. It is hoped that people in Scotland will discuss the proposals and further developments as they arise, and through participation, a balance will be reached.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “The lockdown measures currently in place are absolutely necessary to suppress the virus, protect our health service and to save lives. But we need to chart a way forward, and this paper sets out the principles that will guide us.The public across Scotland have acted responsibly in the face of this ongoing threat, and it is only right that we treat people like grown-ups by sharing our thinking with them on how we can move beyond the current lockdown phase. This paper is high level at this stage but will evolve into a detailed plan as our evidence develops.

“Life may not return to normal for some time yet, but there is a way forward, and ultimately we will come through this challenge.”