by Wickhambrook Parish Clerk
A new, colourful way for people across Suffolk to show their appreciation for others, is underway in Suffolk.
Suffolk Says Thanks recognises the small acts of kindness taking place across the county in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
It is being launched by the Suffolk Resilience Forum, which contains a specific group tasked with looking at emotional wellbeing in the community as a result of the pandemic.
As a direct result of the current situation, people may be experiencing mental health issues or their emotional wellbeing may be affected. To help with this, the simple act of saying ‘thank you’ is known to have a positive effect on both the person giving thanks, as well as the person receiving it.
Stuart Keeble, Director of Public Health Suffolk, said:
“Coronavirus has changed our way of life in so many ways and, as a consequence, more people’s mental health is likely to be affected.
Suffolk residents have a huge range of mental health support available to them, and there is always someone available to talk to, 24/7. But sometimes, a simple ‘thank you’ is enough to make someone’s day and can be a small boost that they need.“
Suffolk Says Thanks builds on the appreciation that we as a nation have been showing to key workers and NHS staff – not least by clapping to show our appreciation every Thursday evening.
Wickhambrook Parish Council would also like to thank everyone who has joined in the response and supported neighbours, friends and family during lockdown.