My deepest condolences to the Royal Family following the sad news of the death of Queen Elizabeth at the age of 96 at her Balmoral estate.

Our thoughts are with a family who will grieve the loss of a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

We observe and pay due respect for the Queen’s long life of public service and dedication to duty.

She witnessed enormous change over 70 years. Many people will be reflecting on the Queen’s visits to Glasgow during seven decades.

We offer our support to the Lord Provost in their role as Lord Lieutenant in her duties as the Queen's representative in the city at this difficult time.

We need to provide support to all those experiencing bereavement, grief and loss.

Talking with friends, family and people involved in local community networks can help. The time after someone dies is very stressful. We have to try to make sure there are opportunities for people to get plenty of rest and make time to relax. 

Grief can be overwhelming. We need to consider the impact of the loss, and the ways we may assist individuals following bereavement.

For many older people, the Queen was simply inspirational and she will be hugely missed. It is vital that there is support for older people who are experiencing grief and they can stay connected through regular phone calls or a chat with their loved ones.

Older people face disadvantage in their lives every day, often without the support they need. Major challenges include ill health, lack of help with basics of daily life, poverty, inadequate housing, loneliness and isolation.

It is not always easy to open up. Through our day-to-day activities, we can help create an environment that encourages older people to discuss their concerns. There are local services available to help deal with these challenges and how to cope with the feelings of low mood, anxiety and depression.

As a city, we all need to talk more about mental health and not just accept that depression is just a part of life. In doing so, older people must not be left behind.

There is a lot that can be done to increase the chances of staying mentally and physically healthy as people get older. Along with a healthy diet, exercise helps reach and maintain a healthy weight.

Joining a walking group, exercise class, book or social club can make a difference. The importance of taking part in activities at the city’s local libraries or local community centres to support health and wellbeing should not be underestimated.

I think that music can be used as a tool for coping with grief and loss. My memory of the Queen is as a member of a school concert band performing on her visit to a local community centre.

Music was an important part of the Queen’s life.

There are many ways we can support and empower each other, create connections, and strengthen empathy.

As we reflect on the Queen’s passing, we can work to make sure that connections with others are nourished, and we use those connections to create positive change in our communities.