West Lothian Council leaders thank staff and key workers

West Lothian Council leader Lawrence Fitzpatrick paid tribute to council staff and those on the front line.

He said: “These are truly unique times and I’ve certainly never seen anything like this in my lifetime. I’m sure that applies to the vast majority of you.

“I’d firstly like to thank all the council staff that are working to protect and help others.

“There are too many to mention but their efforts and commitment have been immense and will continue over the coming weeks and months. The impact of the virus on local services has been significant but necessary steps had to be taken. I’m sure everyone understands and I’d like to thank them for their patience and understanding.

“There are many unsung heroes out there, playing their part in helping others. My message to them is thank you. The Clap for Carers was incredibly emotional and was a wonderful way to acknowledge the role NHS and Social Care staff play.

“As we navigate through these difficult times, I’m sure we are all thinking about the NHS workers. We are incredibly grateful for the role they play in helping to protect us.

“It is incredibly humbling to see how people are pulling together at this time. Please continue to be kind to one another and offer support, understanding and solidarity. Look out for those vulnerable and take care of yourselves and each other.

“To everyone in West Lothian, you are in my thoughts and in my prayers.”

West Lothian Council’s chief executive Graham Hope thanked customers for their patience and understanding after the council was forced into closing and stopping many services due to Covid-19.

He said: “The impact that this unprecedented public emergency has had on our services has been immense.

“I appreciate some of the changes are not always going to be popular but they are in line with Government guidance and are designed to protect members of the public and staff. The feedback we’ve received has been incredibly supportive and I’d like to thank customers for those messages of support. This isn’t an easy time for anyone, including our staff, and the support and understanding shown is really appreciated.”

He also thanked staff for their efforts. He added: “I’ve been contacting staff regularly to acknowledge their incredible support, understanding and commitment. I’m incredibly proud of our staff at this very challenging time. Many of them are working tirelessly to keep services going at a time when society has changed beyond recognition.

“We have many staff working from home and other working in care facilities, schools, operational services, as well as co-ordination and support roles.

“Despite this situation all council staff are continuing to provide vital services, day in day out, and all play a key role. My colleagues should be incredibly proud of the contribution they are making in the fight against COVID-19.

“We can promise our customers that we will continue to work together to protect our community.

“I’d urge West Lothian residents to continue to follow the advice and guidance issued by Government and Health professionals.”

Updates on local services is available on the council’s website at www.westlothian.gov.uk/coronavirus.