As physical services resume in many of our city's faith communities, I would like to take the opportunity to thank you all. Thank you to all of those faith leaders who reached out to me when I resigned as Deputy Leader of the SNP Westminster Group.
Though I did not respond to you all, your kind words and offers of support were really welcome and helpful at a hard, dark time for me.
Thank you for reaching out and supporting your congregations and wider local communities during this incredibly difficult time.
The hard work done by those who lead in faith organisations, and by other members of your community undoubtedly makes our city a better place. I know you work to help those of all faiths and none, and the work you do is appreciated.
I wish you all the best if you have chosen to resume physical meetings. I know there are strict rules you must follow for the safety of everyone, but it will be worth it so that even those who are digitally excluded can access the support and fellowship you provide.
Thank you again for all you do.
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In 1915 my Great Granny’s father was killed when his fishing boat was cut in half by a British war ship. My Great Granny’s mother, was left to raise 5 girls by herself.
She had to make the choice about whether or not to keep my Great Granny, or hand her over to a relative who had more money. Imagine having to choose whether or not to keep a child? This belongs in the last century.
Yet the evil Tory rape clause means people are having to make those same choices today.
A few people have contacted me with worries about the GRA section in the SNP manifesto. I read it to mean that a re-elected SNP Scot gov would make changes to the GRA.
However a lot of you have read it as meaning that there will be another consultation. We have had enough consultations. Legislation needs to change to make legal gender recognition easier.
Should the SNP, or anyone else, intend to kick this into the future, or run another consultation, I will be standing right there with the trans community and allies, telling my government that they’re wrong.
Focus on improving mental health services - 25% increase in direct Scot Gov investment.
Funding to support families visiting children who receive in patient care. I’ve met many parents who’ve struggled with this when their bairns have been in hospital in Glasgow or elsewhere.
First Minister @NicolaSturgeon announcing the transformational @theSNP manifesto, pledging large increases in NHS spending and a focus on mental health too. #BothVotesSNP
We will abolish all NHS dentistry charges! Yaaaass! 🦷 universal healthcare provided free at the point of need. So many of my constituents will benefit from this. (Too many 😢)
A National wage for care staff. So, so important. 25% increase in spend on social care over course of the Parliament. And removing charges for non residential social care!
I know that the local management have fought hard and that the store was actually doing really well compared to other stores. This is a shoddy decision.
This is a huge employer in the city centre. The impact on George Street and the Bon Accord Centre will likely be devastating.
Home schooling reminders for those starting tomorrow.
1. Do not judge yourself against others. Just because they post a happy pic doesn’t mean they’re not also drowning. 2. You have a right to be sad and find things hard even if you have fewer children / a less demanding job / a bigger home than other people.
3. We are in the midst of a global pandemic. People are dying. It is understandable that you and your children will be tired, stressed and worried. Cut everyone some slack, especially yourself.
4. If you’re working speak to your employer and ask for flexibility if you need it.