Caron Lindsay calls for the protection of important local services

These past few months have been tough for all of us. Being stuck at home for weeks on end is difficult enough on its own. But for those key workers and volunteers who have been caring for others, or making sure that we are all fed, there has been an added anxiety. I am so grateful to nurses and other health service workers, delivery drivers, supermarket workers, public transport drivers and others who have had no choice but to keep going to work. 

While the furlough and business support schemes have been a lifeline, there are too many people who have fallen through the cracks. If you changed jobs at the wrong time, or started your own business too recently, there was simply no provision for you. It is absolutely unacceptable that people have been left with no income for months on end.

Liberal Democrats in both Holyrood and Westminster have been calling on both governments to do more to support the excluded. Jamie Stone MP has set up an All Party Parliamentary Group which has demanded action. 

It's also been really difficult for people to access childcare which, in turn, makes it really difficult to return to work. I agree with Scottish Lib Dem Education Spokesperson Beatrice Wishart who has called on the Scottish Government to do more to ensure availability for those who need it. 

And while many parents and children are keen to get back to school after such a long absence, they need to be reassured that their children will be safe. 

In my day job, I support people who are dealing with these and other issues. The reason I am standing  for the Council in the by-election on 10 October is so that I can help local people get the help and services that they need. 

As we adjust to the restrictions we now face in our everyday lives, we have the opportunity to make sure that we protect important local services. I've set up a survey which gives you the chance to tell me what you think and to raise any local issues with me. I would really appreciate it if you would take 5 minutes to fill it in here. 

Feel free to contact me on Facebook (facebook.com/caronlindsay), Twitter (@caronmlindsay) or by email caronlindsaylibdem@gmail.com to raise any issues I can help with.

Caron Lindsay
West Lothian Liberal Democrats