There’s a way to go in getting through worst of the pandemic. One thing I’m struck by is how much can be achieved in (relatively) short space of time when govt, businesses, unions, trade associations, civil society organisations, academics, medics, funders, citizens... (cont)

(cont)... and more pull together towards common goals . We will get through the crisis, albeit it will sadly be painful for many. When we do, imagine if the goals were no longer econ growth, quarterly financial returns, short-term profit and economic ‘efficiency’ cont)

(cont)... Imagine if we changed goals & all organisations were tasked w/ being part of collective efforts to solve biggest soc & env challenges, from cancers to climate crisis, dementia to inequality - plus important, often neglected issues e.g. curing rare diseases... (cont)

(cont)... Idealistic, naive, ambitious? Maybe. But there’s nothing wrong w/ a bit of idealism in my book. Naivety can be useful. And no apology for ambition. Why not shift focus from econ growth to wellbeing (of people, animals & planet)? ... (cont)

(cont)... Imagine if we made that happen. Lots have said it, some have tried it. But collective responses to COVID-19 - while of course not perfect - suggest that w/ right goals, determination, ingenuity + compassion, fairness & open-mindedness, we can knock down huge hurdles...

Tragically pain, suffering and hardship won’t disappear overnight. And a bright shiny future isn’t inevitable. We need to work hard - and work together - to make positive change happen. Let’s all be key workers in taking on what today brings and tomorrow brings.... (cont)

(cont)... The Gauls in Asterix used to have only one fear: that the sky may fall on their heads tmw. But tmw never comes. It may feel like the sky is falling on our heads, but we can get through it. Let’s change our economic model, let’s change society for the better. Who’s in?

PS This might sound like a late night rant, which it kind of is, but no alcohol was involved I promise; just a mixture of frustration at not being able to do more to tackle the short-term crisis, hopefulness and a realisation of how much agency we have