The First Minister has announced a multi-million-pound package of support to deal with the negative impact of the covid-19 pandemic on people’s mental health.

In addition to significant measures announced earlier to deal with the colossal economic fallout from coronavirus, Nicola Sturgeon has said her government is to make £350m available to help with the impact on people’s mental wellbeing.

During today’s covid-19 press conference with the chief medical officer, the First Minister confirmed the virus had claimed another life, taking the death toll to three.

“We know it is not just businesses that will be impacted,” Ms Sturgeon said, “people’s way of life will be impacted dramatically and for months to come.

“…lives are being disrupted like never before and that could impact negatively on many, particularly on mental health”.

The measures unveiled today are for those affected economically but also through reduced contact with society whilst in isolation.

Although full details have not been published, support is expected to include council tax reductions, emergency funding for local authorities and to ensure those on low incomes can continue to access food.

Age Scotland is also set to receive additional funding so it can continue to support older people and operate a helpline.

Ms Sturgeon was keen to stress her desire to support the “community effort we are seeing flower around the country”:

“Where people stand ready to help each other, the government stands ready to help you. Adverts and campaigns to highlight vital health advice and how people can help each other are being put together.”

That all schools would likely close by the end of the week was also announced.

Anyone wishing to use the Age Scotland helpline can do so by calling 0800 12 44 222.