I WANT to start my first column of 2021 by wishing hope, and a Happy New Year, to everyone.

The best news of the year so far is undoubtedly the vaccines for Covid-19 becoming available to communities. Hubs have already been set up locally, and many have already received their first doses, with more to come in the days, weeks and months ahead.

For many, though, times will be hard for a while yet. Moods may be low, and you and your families may still face financial hardship, isolation, or be struggling to juggle home working, home learning and being a parent, pal and a peacemaker all at the same time.

It’s exhausting. But if you’re struggling, remember that you are not alone. There is help and support ready and waiting to help make things easier.

COPE Scotland has been providing community-based mental health support services in north-west Glasgow since 1991. If you need support with your mental wellbeing, your local Citizens’ Advice Bureau can help with a range of issues including benefits, debt, housing problems, consumer advice and family and relationship support.

CAB Scotland’s advice helpline can be contacted on 08000 281456.

If you’re a Glasgow Housing Association tenant and have problems with your home, call their housing helpline on 08004 797979, and if you have an urgent medical problem and you’re not sure what to do, call the NHS by dialling 111.

There are two other projects I’d like to mention that have been providing a very welcome community service. The Heart of Scotstoun community centre in Balmoral Street is raising funds for its community work by selling and delivering takeaway meals, cakes, afternoon teas and more, and is also running a ‘design a heart’ competition for Valentine’s Day - see facebook.com/heartofscotstoun for more details.

And the North West Community Pantry scheme, providing emergency food support to young people, their families and the community in the north-west of the city from its expanding food depot in Yoker. Membership costs £2.50 and gets you a bag of shopping containing 10 items worth a minimum of £15. Check out @NorthWestPantry on Twitter or send a message to the ‘DRC Youth Project’ page on Facebook to find out more.

If we can’t be anything else to others, let’s be kind. These are tough times for everyone, so let’s try to look out for one another and stay safe and positive.

It won’t be long now until we reach the light at the end of a very dark tunnel.