ARGYLL and Bute Council’s chief executive has paid tribute to the work of the “dedicated team” who continue to work to provide essential services amid the Covid-19 outbreak.
In a statement released on the authority’s website, Pippa Milne also said she hopes that the authority’s workers will continue to look after themselves during the coronavirus crisis.
Ms Milne was recently given emergency executive powers by the council for the duration of the pandemic lockdown, in consultation with leader Aileen Morton and depute Gary Mulvaney.
She only took over in the chief executive’s post less than four months ago, replacing Cleland Sneddon, who moved to South Lanarkshire Council.
Ms Milne said: “I would like to personally share my gratitude for all the council staff and volunteers who are working incredibly hard under exceptional circumstances just now to maintain vital services and help support communities.
“Nobody could have predicted the impact coronavirus would have locally and across the globe.
“We are all having to work in different ways and adjust to a totally new way of life.
"I’m very lucky to have such a dedicated team who are making difficult decisions and having to find solutions in this evolving emergency. We value all the notes of appreciation we are receiving for our employees.
“Working with partner agencies, our priority is reaching our most vulnerable communities and making sure they have the support they need including access to food.
“Thank you for your patience as we continue to re-focus vital services and provide frontline support to protect those most in need.
“In a world which is changing every day, I am pleased that we can continue to provide essential support including providing hubs for free school meal provision, access to food and medicine for people who have to stay at home for 12 weeks, advice and information for businesses and childcare provision for key workers.
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“Please continue to follow national guidance and stay safe by looking after yourself and each other.”
The council operates a Caring for People helpline, which is available to anybody needing help with financial, business, social or domestic issues.
The service is available from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, by calling 01546 605524.
The helpline is also the local assessment centre for anybody who has been told to stay at home for 12 weeks.
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