Here at Isle of Man Newspapers, we have to report the bad as well as the good.
And there is no doubt about the fact that we have had to report a lot of sad news recently.
But we have seen some good news about the indomitable Manx spirit.
We know that people have been helping their neighbours.
Many have been raising money for good causes.
Hundreds clap the NHS and other essential workers every Thursday.
We’ve seen teddy bears, Christmas lights and pictures of rainbows in windows all over the island showing that we are all standing together.
And, of course, we’re standing apart too.
We have been obeying social distancing rules on pavements, shops and in workplaces.
A tiny fraction of people have disobeyed the lockdown. But almost all of us have done the right thing to minimise infections in our island.
We always knew the Isle of Man was a special place.
The selfless acts we’ve heard about over the last few weeks have confirmed that belief.
Let’s celebrate the good that has come out of this crisis.
So many key workers have made such a difference and kept the Isle of Man going at this difficult time.
Every year we celebrate excellence in a big event at the Villa Marina. This year is very different and we’ll be focusing on community kindness.
The health service, emergency services, charities, shops, postal workers, refuse collectors, staff at Manx Utilities and Manx Gas, the public health team, civil servants processing claims for government help, telecommunications companies and the media have all been working hard for you.
We are going to recognise all these people at a special event when the crisis is over.
But we want your help.
Let us know about people who’ve made a difference in this difficult time and we’ll tell our readers all about them in print and on iomtoday.co.im
Our campaign is being supported by Manx Telecom.
Its chief executive, Gary Lamb, said: ’Adjusting to life over the last few weeks has been difficult for everyone. It’s been particularly stressful for those who are most vulnerable, or who have had to self isolate, and rely on others to help them through.
’It’s testing times like these that remind us how important it is to support each other as a community. I have personally been overwhelmed at how well people have responded when things have got tough, so I’m delighted that Manx Telecom is working with Isle of Man Newspapers to help recognise some of those who have stepped up and followed their natural instincts to support friends, families, neighbours, workmates and even complete strangers.
’It doesn’t matter whether this has been through volunteering, by offering to shop or cook for those unable to do so, by making supplies or simply by carrying out little acts of kindness - all these things have made a big difference to those on the receiving end as we make our way through this crisis.
’As the major telecoms provider on the island, Manx Telecom has worked ceaselessly to ensure that everyone can stay connected during these trying times.
’Our staff are working tremendously hard to support all our customers and keep our services running smoothly. Manx Telecom has always been proud to support our community and we’re thrilled to be a part of Isle of Man Newspapers’ Community Kindness campaign.’
To nominate people or organisations email [email protected]



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