Last Monday saw the introduction of new Covid restrictions across Scotland. Both Glasgow and West Dunbartonshire were placed in Level 3 so we all know what that means, right?

Sadly we will all have become familiar with the restrictions of no visitors in our homes, and no pubs, bars or restaurants being able to serve alcohol.

You may have been heartened by the fact that the new rules mean that there’s no longer any distinction between a café and a restaurant – they can all (including pubs) serve food and non-alcoholic drinks during the day – but that might be small comfort to you.

But what you may not have noticed so quickly are the new travel restrictions, which now say that you should not travel outwith your local authority area unless it is for essential purposes.

This remains guidance, so it does not have the force of law, but the message came over loud and clear. No non essential travel outwith your council area.

Writing as I am in a newspaper that straddles the boundary between Glasgow City and West Dunbartonshire, this is very relevant. Previously the travel restriction applied to health board areas so it mattered not a jot – we could all visit the Clyde Shopping Centre or the St Enoch Centre without too much concern. But not now.

How do we deal with that?

Let’s be clear; as a member of Glasgow City Council, my advice is to follow the guidance. But I’m acutely aware of what this involves, and how challenging it will be.

I suspect all of us living in either council area cross those boundaries often, even daily, as we go about our lives. Work, shopping, meeting family, you name it.

In practical terms, the boundary doesn’t exist. I’m also acutely aware that many of us will rely on close friends for emotional support who also happen to live in a different council area.

So what to do? Well, let’s remember that the definition of ‘essential travel’ is pretty generous. Work and school are easy. They’re both clearly covered by the guidance – they’re essential. And that will include taking kids to school. So also is outdoor exercise, healthcare or caring responsibilities, and essential shopping.

I think the most challenging issue is our care for others, and this is where the leeway on ‘caring responsibilities’ becomes important.

Many of us will have family or friends who rely on us for physical or emotional support. We may not be able to visit them in their homes, but that’s the reason the First Minister was so keen to ensure that cafés could stay open - to ensure there is somewhere to meet as the autumn grows colder.

Being able to meet those who need our support is going to become ever more important, and it’s clear to me that this was in the minds of advisers and ministers when the guidance was written.

So stay safe – and look out for those who need your support.