This is a seminal moment in our history in so many ways.  Never before have we been subjected to so many restrictions in peacetime and yet, collectively, we understand why.  Our education, relative affluence and access to instant news, created through many years of peace at home, allows us to recognise that in extraordinary times, there is a need for extraordinary measures.

This Friday 8 May marks 75 years since World War Two in Europe came to an end. Throughout the world, people are being encouraged to reflect on the sacrifice and courage of the millions who played their part 75 years ago – from Armed Forces personnel who bravely fought, to the men and women who stayed at home to aid the war effort and safeguard the home front. 

I think we can all agree that getting used to the current restrictions to our way of life is not at all easy.  Change rarely is.  We are all learning to live with this virus and with lockdown – possibly for some time to come.  We cannot stay in complete lockdown indefinitely though and we’re hopeful of seeing some degree of normality restored, with restrictions lifted gradually in the weeks and months to come.  But for as long as lockdown is the new normal, safeguarding our mental health, as well as our physical health, will be vital. 

As we enter another week of lockdown, it does seem as if the restrictions currently placed on us are beginning to have some effect.  However, it does not look as if these will be relaxed for some time yet and so I cannot re-iterate strongly enough the need to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.

And so we end the first of three weeks of lockdown due to the Coronavirus pandemic and all the signs are that we are in for another three weeks.  This Easter weekend will truly highlight the monumental changes we have been asked to endure when we are unable to join our families to celebrate the long weekend. 

As we all continue to adjust to the new way of life and the challenges it presents, the thought of another three weeks is daunting – but it is so important that we carry out the Government’s instructions: stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives. 

Here is your chance to lead by example and show those in your communities how it is done.  Let them see that some resilience and inner strength goes a long way to dealing with the challenges life presents. 

But for those of us who face unsurmountable challenges and need support and help, remember the charitable sector is still there to support you.  Even though some of them are facing significant challenges themselves, they have done a remarkable job of adjusting to the new circumstances.  Do not be afraid to reach out to them if you or someone you know, needs support.  The Veterans Scotland Newsletter has a wealth of information and contacts which you may find useful – please share with everyone: the more everyone knows about it the better the chance someone in real need will find support.

I hear some fantastic stories of charities and individuals helping ensure food and medicines are delivered to those socially isolating, providing telephone or Skype calls to those who are alone or vulnerable, providing advice and help online and signposting people to other organisations who can help.

There is much else going on too, including for those in transition and I will let you know more about that in my next blog. CTP, Skills Development Scotland and the Defence Transition Services are all working flat out to offer help and guidance for those about to make the change.  Of course, the economic situation is uncertain and opportunities may be far less than they might have been a couple of months ago, but even so – remember, you have great skills and employers will be seeking them once we get over this period. 

For now, it is about preparing ourselves for a further period of time in lockdown and making sure that we are looking out for each other and others in our communities. Remember that help and support is out there, so don’t be afraid to ask, and please – stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.