Every day I tune into the first minister's briefing on coronavirus, where she provides, clearly and concisely, updates on Scotland's response to the pandemic.

Throughout all of this, I have been grateful that we have a leader that treats the Scottish public both as adults and with respect.

We have seen real progress over the past few weeks. Since March 5, over 3,100 patients who were hospitalised for coronavirus have been able to leave hospital.

There are reductions in the number of people in intensive care and in the number of related deaths since the outbreak began. This reassuring news lets us know that the difficult sacrifices we are all making are working.

Thankfully, we can see that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and each day that we pay attention to the lockdown measures – stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives – we move closer to reaching the end of that tunnel.

But we must also be aware that this progress is fragile. Some countries that have eased their lockdown restrictions have experienced a surge in cases. To begin our own transition out of the lockdown, we must continue to be informed by the science.

This might mean that each of the UK nations leave the lockdown at slightly different times.

Along with both Wales and Northern Ireland, we have made only a small change to the lockdown measures in Scotland.

While the vast majority of people observe the measures, I know that they are challenging. What is right, however, is taking the decisions that protect the lives of those who are vulnerable in our communities. That remains the priority of the Scottish Government.

As legislators, we understand there is a real human cost to this. We are all separated from our friends, families and usual support networks. Some are living in abusive households, while others isolate alone.

Ensuring people are able to access the support they need is crucial to the success of the lockdown.

If you are struggling, then please reach out – there are people ready to help. Scotland's 24/7 Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline: 08000271234; The Samaritans 116123; Citizens Advice Scotland Clackmannanshire: 01259 219404.

My thanks go, as always, to those working on the front line during this pandemic. The incredible staff working throughout the NHS and social care services, the emergency response teams on call and those working in essential roles, in local government, shops and businesses key to our economy.

Your tireless work during these extremely difficult times is appreciated by us all.

This week, the first minister announced that we can now exercise more than once a day. As we responsibly head out for our extra walk, I hope we can remember that the path we take out of this crisis, and its success, is one chosen by us all.

By paying attention to the measures now, we move steadily closer to the light at the end of the tunnel. So please, continue to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.