For anyone that doesn’t know a group called the Glasgow Southside Self-Isolation Support Group https://www.southsidesis.co.uk/   has been set up to bring “people together to help and support one another through self-isolation or quarantine as a result of COVID-19 throughout the southside of Glasgow.  If you’re self-isolating, or are able to help someone who is with basic supplies or even just a friendly phone call, we’re here to help connect people together.”   They have a Facebook Page where a lot of information about local services etc is shared.

Meantime on Queen Square, two residents, Lorna and Graeme McKerracher, circulated a  flyer round the street inviting people to join a Queen Square support group.   A great initiative!  There are now 62 participants.   It operates mainly as a WhatsApp Group – though its possible for residents to phone a number direct – and it has spawned a further social group, the idea being to try and keep the support group focussed on people providing practical help to each other.

The Strathbungo Society Committee doesn’t wish to duplicate either initiative and hopes that other streets might consider setting up their own practical support networks.   If anyone wants to do this for their street and wants help with preparing or printing a flyer,  we’d be happy to support.  If so, you can contact me in the first instance (nickkempe1@gmail.com).

The Southside Self Isolation Support Group is also asking for local street contacts throughout the southside and it might make sense for anyone volunteering to take on that role to also consider setting up a WhatsApp group for their street.

The people most likely to need support are probably not on WhatsApp or any other form of social media.  Due to staff  going into isolation, Glasgow City Council earlier this week had to cut care at home services for all but Priority 1 cases.   So, if there was someone getting services near you and isn’t now or who you think might appreciate some support, please make contact with them.