A Perthshire childminder was determined to do her bit during the coronavirus outbreak after being inspired by friends working on the health service frontline.
Mel Davies, who runs Smile Factory in Abernethy, is one of an army of carers who joined with Perth and Kinross Council to look after the children of key workers during the current crisis.
She said she and others in her profession have had to adapt in exceptional circumstances.
Mel said: “Once I was closed to my existing families, and having close friends working in intensive care units in hospital, I had to do what I could to help too so I got in touch with Perth and Kinross Council.
“Mainly it’s been ensuring welfare and needs of the children are met in extremely unusual circumstances.”
She said she had had to work hard to form a rapport with the children and their families in record time.
“There have been lots of WhatsApp, phone conversations and strategies to make the little ones feel valued, cared about and safe in a new environment,” she said.
“I feel I’m contributing in this awful time when people are sick and losing their lives.
“The gratitude of the parents I’m helping too is lovely.”
Other childminders who have signed up to help the local authority say they have found it challenging but rewarding.
Emma Duncan said: “For myself it was an easy decision to do my bit to help but I also had to take my husband and children’s feelings into account.
“After considering the possible increase in risk involved with taking other children into our home at this time, as a family we all decided to help.”
The governor of HMP Castle Huntly, Gerald Michie, paid tribute to staff providing childcare for key workers, saying they had allowed the prison service to continue running.
Mr Michie said: “As a critical public service, the continuation of the Scottish Prison Service’s day-to-day operations is imperative.
“Unlike many other organisations who can potentially close their business, or make arrangements for all staff to work from home, this is not the case for those working in prisons.
“The key worker childcare places currently being offered by Perth and Kinross Council, whilst clearly benefiting the parent and child, also means that the SPS continues to have key staff available to deliver the business.”
