Things are all different these days but for our team at Home-Start West Lothian we are all keeping busy helping families and volunteers. Our team are taking it in turns to share how they’re getting on and offer a few tips on getting through the challenge lockdown. Its family coordinator Jacqui’s turn now.

1.    How are you supporting families during this lockdown?

I am generally contacting the families I support on a weekly basis for a check in/catch up and these days that’s on the phone or something like Zoom. We can also be doing things like helping with urgent help and even a doorstep delivery. It’s a lot of being there for families and volunteers and helping where I can.

2.    What’s your average day like during lockdown?

I still think its vital to have a structure to the day so my alarm is set as if I was heading to the office.  Then its laptop on and on with the calls and check in. An average day at the moment evolves a lot around technology.

3.    What advice would you give families during this time?

First of all, follow the Government guidelines in order to stay safe and well. Remember there is nothing normal about the current situation  – so with this in mind – reminding yourself you can only do so much. Also people should know that they can’t do everything they  did before lock down – so don’t beat yourself up about what you can’t do – do what you can. Be kind to yourself.

4.    What’s your best lockdown tip?

Try not to think of the lock down as going on endlessly with no end in sight – take one day at a time. Also as much as possible, try to keep some form of routine.

5.    If you had to pick a lockdown partner who would it be (and why)?

It would have to be Johnny Depp – he’s funny and humour can help us manage difficult situations, oh and he’s gorgeous, so something nice to look at too – Bonus