In the latest article in our series on the experiences of lockdown, our Mailroom and Scanning Assistant David Turnbull provides his insights and experience.
The beginning of the pandemic was a bit of an uncertain time. No one knew the implications and effects of the virus.
I had to go on furlough due to living with a vulnerable person, which meant needing to be extra careful. I ordered groceries online, kept a safe distance while out walking, (at times you needed eyes at the back of the head) and disinfecting my hands each time I touched something.
Once I returned home, I made sure I decontaminated everything including using wipes and disinfectant spray. As I was no longer working, I decided to learn new skills online.
It was eerie at times being outside when there was hardly anyone out and very little traffic. It felt like I stepped into a scene of 28 Days Later.
Around July, I got a call to see if I could come back on a part-time basis to help with tidying up in our Bathgate office, and I leapt at the chance. Rail transport between Edinburgh and Bathgate was fine, with very few people travelling and there were times I had the carriage to myself.
There was no problem social distancing in the Bathgate offices as everyone has their individual office space.
Gradually from around September, I returned full time to the Edinburgh office to resume my duties there. There have been changes to banking and mail due to the pandemic. The office has had to adapt by putting in social distancing rules, installing hand gels and providing staff with the option of working at home.
Due to those measures, I was able to work in a safe environment, despite the physical aspects of having to be around all the floors.
I also made sure I walked every lunchtime, as the exercise helped to break up the day, whilst also having health benefits.
I am impressed by how well Drummond Miller adapted to the crisis, operating very efficiently as a business despite the uncertainty we were all facing.
On a personal level, it has taught me how unpredictable life is. You need to learn how to adapt to whatever the situation throws at you.