Acts of lockdown kindness see Buckie group praised in parliament

BUCKIE Kindness Group (BKG) are to be commended at Holyrood for going "above and beyond" to support the local community during the Covid pandemic.

The group, who were formed just before the pandemic struck, quickly had to adapt to a new and entirely unfamiliar role, which has seen them deliver food parcels and other items to those were were forced to shield in their homes. They have also provided a listening ear to help combat loneliness during the lockdown.

Their dedication and that of one of the group's founders, John Stuart, has not gone unnoticed by Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Karen Adam, who described the BKG volunteers as being a "shining light in these dark times" whose commitment to helping their community as "beyond heartening".

Ms Adam said: “When I met John Stuart I was so impressed with the work that the Buckie Kindness Group had achieved throughout lockdown, and I have kept a close eye on their activities ever since.

“I know the group was set up for acts of kindness in the Buckie area but they surpassed all expectation and went above and beyond during an unprecedented time.

“From delivering food parcels to the vulnerable, to giving away store vouchers for people to buy necessities, the group stepped up at a time when people needed support the most.

“As the MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast, lodging this motion in the Scottish Parliament is my way of giving the recognition John Stuart and the Buckie Kindness Group deserve and I can’t wait to see what they get up to in the future.”

Mr Stuart commented: "This is an amazing piece of news for everyone at the Buckie Kindness Group and, of course, all of you supported and contributed to our collective endeavours."

The motion text reads: "That the parliament commends John Stuart of the Buckie Kindness Group for his work in the community and continuously going above and beyond to provide support throughout the Covid-19 pandemic; applauds all of the group's members and volunteers for supporting people in isolation, especially those in food and poverty crises; believes that such community action groups have been a bright and shining light in a dark time and thanks all who have stepped up in difficult times to work for a better society, and wishes them every success in the future."

For more information about Buckie Kindness Group visit their Facebook page.

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