Take time to thank those who are keeping West London running
Join the nationwide ‘Clap for Carers’ tonight at 8pm
As if life isn’t throwing up enough challenges at the moment, I’ve decided to move house.
Other than the other public health and safety issues that abound, I’m currently grappling with internet access, removal companies and the “life admin” of notifying utilities and suppliers of my change of address.
My advice to anyone else moving during this time is to write a thorough list with each task prioritised and gradually work through it one by one. Slowly but surely, I’m getting through mine. All while trying to lead the Horton and Garton team as they get settled in their new home offices.
I’m trying to make the most of my daily exercise by walking or running around my new neighbourhood.
It really is crucial to keep active, but I can’t help feeling frustrated with the joggers who are not mindful of the safe distancing along the riverbanks. When getting my groceries, the shops are still too busy, although I do appreciate the polite British behaviour of queueing at the door.
Throughout all this, the wonderful shop assistants, cashiers and security guards continue on with business as usual ensuring we all get fed and doing it all with smiles on their faces, despite the chaos and the inherent risk involved.
The same can be said for all the frontline workers, with the beautiful ‘Clap for the Carers’ moment last week demonstrating the public gratitude and admiration for the hard working NHS staff during this time.
If you missed it last week, then be sure to set a reminder for 8pm tonight where you’ll get another opportunity to take to your balcony or doorstep and let your health workers how thankful you are.
My older sister is one such worker, now a GP nurse, that has volunteered to go back to assist at her local hospital Intensive care unit along with all her previous ICU colleagues, a story being seen all over the country.
No amount of applause will ever be enough to give thanks to the bus and transport drivers helping the keyworkers get to work; to the teachers homeschooling our kids; or to the frontline staff at Hammersmith & Fulham Council who are keeping the borough running smoothly. These are the people who are answering the calls of a public that are relying on their care to survive, and what is the best way for the public to thank them? By staying at home!
If everybody follows the Government advice, then when this is all over, yes our patch of West London will have changed forever, but we will have come through it as a community, stronger, and together.