Gosport MP says coronavirus adversity shines a light on the best in our society

March and April have been months like no other in our lifetimes.

The coronavirus outbreak has changed the way we all live our lives and for many this outbreak has had a devastating impact.

While the government works around the clock to limit the damage of this virus, I know from the thousands of pieces of correspondence I’ve received that this has had a substantial and sometimes tragic impact on people’s lives.

My deepest condolences go to all families who have lost loved ones and my enormous thanks go to our NHS and care workers on the front line – and indeed all those key workers from shop staff to bin collectors, teachers to police who are working so hard to keep our communities running!

Although it presents a challenge like no other to our daily lives, the coronavirus outbreak has also shone a light on the very best in people and our societies.

Almost overnight, the vast majority of us had to adjust our lives significantly – staying at home to protect the NHS and playing our own part in saving lives.

These sacrifices won’t be forgotten in the national effort, and those who have followed the rules can look back when this crisis is over, knowing they all did what they could.

At breakneck speed we’ve seen NHS capacity accelerate to record levels. The government’s priority at all times has been to make sure our health service is not overwhelmed.

As I write this article, the Health Secretary has confirmed to parliament that there are now 3,000 spare critical care beds in the NHS, before even taking into account the astonishing capacity provided by the new Nightingale Hospitals – state-of-the-art facilities built in the hope that we don’t need to have to use them.

Our appreciation for the hard work and dedication of our front line staff is illustrated at its best as applause rings and the boats in Portsmouth Harbour sound their horns on Thursdays at 8pm, and by the fantastic colourful pictures drawn by children across our local area and beyond.

I have been showcasing some of this wonderful artwork by children in my constituency on social media – so do pay it a visit if your spirits need lifting!

Although at times the news can feel overwhelming, we’ve all been perked up by the stories of hope and survival against the odds as well as the many amazing fundraising efforts – including of course those of our latest national hero, Captain Tom Moore!

Locally, we have seen communities across Hampshire pull together. Many local pubs, restaurants, shops and even breweries have risen to the challenge and started offering home deliveries.

Neighbours who may never have spoken properly before are now shopping for each other and starting WhatsApp groups for their street. Showing their usual resilience and dedication, our voluntary organisations are working around the clock to coordinate efforts and make sure those who need services can get them.

This crisis will pass, and when life returns to normal we will all reflect on this surreal period of our history – a period that has affected us all. We must never forget, however, how the adversity we faced brought out the best in our communities.