This week marks a milestone in the fight against COVID19 as, once again, further restrictions have lifted and people can start to get out more.

Those employed in the retail sector are likely to have returned to work, which in turn means people can head out for some non-essential shopping.

As life is tentatively beginning to return to normal – albeit a new kind of normal – it is time for us to start considering what this brave new world will look like.

The stark truth is that the future looks very uncertain for many people. Last week’s news that the UK economy had shrunk by a record 20 per cent in April was a worrying reminder of how tough things could get over the coming months.

For many, a future of financial hardship and unemployment could be just around the corner, so it is important that we as a society start pulling together to protect the most vulnerable.

Therefore, I welcome the Government’s announcement that an additional £63 million will be distributed to local authorities to help those who are struggling to afford food and other essentials due to COVID19. Also, the fact that homelessness charities are going to receive £6 million to continue their work supporting rough sleepers.

But it is clear that much, much more is going to be needed if we are to minimise the potentially devastating impact of any financial crash and recession.

Throughout my time as police and crime commissioner, and in my life before I took this office, I have been a passionate and active supporter of local good causes, particularly charities which work with the homeless.

I know what good work is already going on in our communities to help those most in need and I am committed to continuing my support in any way possible.

I was thrilled to be allocated an extra £224,000 by the Ministry of Justice this year which I will distribute between 20 local charities and social enterprises. Now, more than ever, we need to pull together.

Meanwhile, one distraction from the COVID19 news coverage over the weekend, was the airing of The Salisbury Poisonings.This BBC1 dramatisation of the Novichok incidents in Salisbury and Amesbury two years ago has certainly captured the public’s imagination, attracting huge viewing figures.

But for those of us who lived through it, particularly those who were directly impacted by what happened, it is an odd feeling to see that experience acted out on television.

I know I have said this many times before, but I would like to once again acknowledge what an extraordinary and life-changing chain of events that was and thank our communities in Salisbury and Amesbury for their support during such a challenging time.

I hope the television programme allows the wider public to understand more about the incredible work carried out by officers and staff from Wiltshire Police and those working for our partner agencies.