Many people alive today have no concept of what it is to live through a time of national emergency, some might be able to recall the austerity of the war years and the rationing which continued for many years after that, others remember the 1970s when there were such frequent power cuts that hospitals were forced to function on battery power or use candles.

Twenty years ago there were widespread fears regarding the Millennium bug which would cause upheaval in computer systems and there have been fears about medical condition such as mad cow disease over the years too, but they are nothing compared to the fear of the new coronavirus.

I hope that, as many people claim, the fears are being overplayed, but for those of us with serious medical conditions, or family members with them this is a time of great uncertainty. On one hand we are being told not to panic but on the other our elderly relatives may have to self isolate for four months.

Out of the 14 family members closest to me, parents, siblings etc, six have serious health conditions so I am concerned.

We have all been washing our hands until they are raw and trying not to get too close to other people but my biggest worry is for my parents. Both are in their 80s and both with several risk factors.

As well as fears about their physic health I am really concerned about what impact this is having on their mental health. My mum said to me on Saturday: ‘‘If I cannot see anyone for months I might as well be dead.”

This is why I am also extremely concerned about the rise of people offering ‘acts of kindness’. I am very aware of the postcards which are being shared on social media by ‘volunteers’ offering to get shopping or to make telephone calls to those self-isolating.

On the surface it sounds wonderful, and I am sure those supporting them are doing so with the best of intentions but I am really worried that my mum would be totally trusting of any stranger who offered to ring her up for a chat, just to keep her company.

I am sure that within 30 minutes they would get her life story story and it would not take much longer for her to divulge details about which bank she uses, as she doesn’t trust internet banking.

How valuable could that information be in the hands of the wrong person?

I am delighted that in Ross the Good Neighbour Scheme was already up, and about to start running, before this latest crisis.

I am sure that having training regarding safeguarding in place for their volunteers will stop potential scams taking place in this area, but my mum does not live in Ross and although I hope I will be able to protect her I am very concerned for those who are even more vulnerable as they live alone.

I urge anyone who lives in Ross to contact the Good Neighbour Scheme if you need help or if you can volunteer I’m sure your services will be welcome, visit www.rosscdt.org.uk