Region shares pandemic experiences

MORE than 12,500 people, including some from Dumfries and Galloway, have shared their experiences with the The Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry. The ‘Let’s Be Heard ‘ project marked its second anniversary this week, it was set up with the aim to give a voice to everyone who was affected by the pandemic. Now researchers have been analysing all the experiences which have been shared to help inform the inquiry’s investigations and the recommendations it makes to Scottish Ministers. Dr Alexandra Anderson, head of Let’s Be Heard, said: “We are sincerely grateful to everyone who shared their experiences with us. We understand how difficult it must have been for some respondents to revisit such a difficult period in their lives and would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who has taken the time to engage with us. “The experiences you have shared with us are fundamental to the Inquiry’s work, informing our investigations and helping identify the lessons that need to be learned so we are better prepared in the event of a future pandemic. We would also like to thank the organisations throughout Scotland which assisted us in our work by raising awareness, organising workshops, focus groups and discussions. “The team is now focused on analysing the experiences shared with us to help the Inquiry as it turns its attention to its impact and decision-making hearings next year.”