I AM delighted to be writing in the column once more, and especially in such unprecedented times, to give young people the reassurance they need. I will use this column to address young people directly:

COVID-19

As you will all be aware, the on-going global pandemic of COVID-19 is causing a lot of disruption to your everyday lives. It is important that you heed to the official Government, NHS and Public Health Scotland advice to ensure that you, your families and your friends are adequately protected. If you or someone you know is showing any of the symptoms associated with the virus, or have a new continuous cough or fever, it is important for your sake and the sake of others around you in society that you follow the advice to self-isolate.

By self-isolating it will not only protect you but those around you. Things will be okay. Make sure you stay up to date on the NHS website and by calling 111. Do not attend a GP surgery or A&E at this time with symptoms.

School Closures

As the First Minister announced on March 18, school closures have been in effect beginning this week. It has not been an easy decision to make, and therefore I would hope all pupils will continue to engage in and participate in the distance/online learning that has been worked up by Fife Council and staff at our High Schools, who have worked around the clock to ensure you’re not disadvantaged in any way.

I know for many of you, that last week may have been your last week at school. It is not how you expected it to end, but be rest assured teachers are still there for you. They have the time for you and are on the other end of their screens to answer your messages on learning platforms or emails. They care about you as much as I do.

Exams

As we are all now aware, SQA Examinations for 2020 are now cancelled. Please let me reassure you that all of your schools, teachers, the council and Government are working around the clock to ensure you get the qualifications you deserve and that you’ve worked so hard for. I promise you that no one will be disadvantaged – I will not let it happen.

Contact

If you would like to get in touch with me to discuss the on-going situation, need a chat or would like to raise another issue, please get in touch by emailing me at Bailey-Lee.Robb.MSYP@sypmail.org.uk, or getting in touch with me via Twitter: @BaileyLeeMSYP

Everything is going to be okay, we will all get through this together.