We are facing an unprecedented health emergency in the form of the Covid-19 outbreak, and it is up to each and every single person in Clydebank and right across the country to do their bit.

The new measures, introduced by the Prime Minister Boris Johnson and supported by the Scottish Government, mean you must only leave your house for one of the following reasons: to go for essential food or medicine supplies; to exercise, which should be done once a day alone or with members of your household; to care for a vulnerable person; or to travel for essential work that cannot be done from home.

If these measures are carried out by everyone, along with practising social distancing by staying two metres apart from each other, then we will absolutely give ourselves the best chance of stopping the spread of this virus. We must stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.

I understand how tough a time this is for everyone and both of Scotland’s governments are working around the clock to ensure that individuals, businesses and communities are properly supported through this crisis.

This is not just a health emergency, it is also an economic one. The commitment to pay 80 per cent of people’s wages who are employed, as well as offering a variety of grants, rates relief, VAT deference and interruption loans, is an unprecedented level of support for employers and employees. It is hugely welcome.

We want to have our favourite pubs, restaurants, cafes, shops and other vital businesses to enjoy when this crisis is over.

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The Chancellor Rishi Sunak (pictured) has also unveiled a major support package for the self-employed. I know there were many self-employed who had been anxious about how they would be supported, but the chancellor has guaranteed similar levels of support to that of employed people, paying 80 per cent of their average monthly profits over the last three years valued at up to £2,500 a month.

The scheme will benefit the vast majority of the self-employed, and while it will operate from the beginning of June, the payments will be backdated from March 1.

I have been heartened by the community effort locally in West Dunbartonshire to support those who must self-isolate and will be feeling even more cut off. By providing food and vital supplies or simply making contact with them to check on their mental wellbeing, people will know that help is on hand.

Any resident or group willing to be added to the shared database of community volunteers by the council should email empowerment@west-dunbarton.gov.uk with the following details:

1. Contact details (name, group name, email and telephone) of two representatives (if possible)

2. A summary of how many members you have willing to offer support

3. A summary of what you could support with – i.e. driving, deliveries, phone calls to those in isolation, are you PVG checked, do you have a second language, retired healthcare worker, etc.

4. Any other information you feel would be helpful.

I wish everyone the very best of health and if I can assist on any matter, my office team are still able to work for home. Email Maurice.Golden.MSP@Parliament.Scot with any issue you have.