The Edinburgh hotel boss keeping the doors open for NHS heroes

A hotel boss has vowed to keep the doors open for vital workers as they attempt to contain the spread of Covid-19 in Scotland.

Lindsay Fallon

Lyndsay Fallon, 34, assistant manager at the Edinburgh Central Travelodge Plus, is in charge of one of just 50 of the budget chain’s sites still operating across the country.

Travelodge is providing accommodation for NHS and other critical workers, carers, work crews installing protective equipment and members of the emergency services.

Ms Fallon is in charge of a team responsible for the guests’ care, meaning she only spends one day a week with her six-year-old daughter, leaving her husband to do home teaching.

She said: “I am stringent that we are all following public health and government instructions. Initially, it was challenging incorporating all of the health and safety procedures aligned with Covid-19 but now it has become a way of life.

“However, we have introduced more safety measures as a result of the lockdown.

“This includes a daily briefing I give to my team on the importance of social distancing and the importance of constantly washing your hands.

“We have signage in all public areas of the hotel advising customers and staff on the importance of washing your hands and social distancing.

“We have added floor markings highlighting the correct distance where customers need to stand in the reception area.

“We have hand sanitisers on the reception desk for customers to use and we are having perspex screens fitted on the reception desk too. All staff have gloves and hand sanitisers to use whilst working in the hotel.

“We are constantly sanitising all areas within the hotel, our office and equipment.”

Ms Fallon admitted: “This is very tough. We have to keep positive, be safe and focus on moving ahead – it’s the only way to beat this horrible virus and keep a sense of normality.

“My husband is currently looking after our daughter and in charge of the home schooling Monday to Thursday. I take over on Friday.

“I feel extremely proud to be part of Travelodge’s front line team and to support the Edinburgh community – especially the NHS and other critical group workers. It is such a privilege to play a small part in our country’s history.

“The company is stringent on health and safety and we have the correct polices in place to ensure that everyone is safe to work which gives you the confidence to come into work.

“We love going the extra mile and putting a smile on our customers faces.

“I am also incredibly grateful to have such an amazing team.”