Community Volunteers Working Hard to Support Vulnerable Residents

Community Volunteers Working Hard to Support Vulnerable Residents

The Basingstoke and Deane Community Hub has taken over 1,200 calls from vulnerable borough residents following the launch of a new coronavirus helpline.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is working in partnership with Hampshire County Council, Basingstoke Voluntary Action (BVA) and community and voluntary groups to ensure that those most at risk can stay inside their homes and receive deliveries of food and prescribed medication during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Coronavirus Hampshire Helpline has been set up for residents who are at higher risk from the virus, are self-isolating and do not have access to any help from family and friends to register for support. The helpline is available seven days a week, from 9am to 5pm by calling 0333 370 4000.

Basingstoke and Deane Community Hub, through a wide range of community and voluntary groups and volunteers across the borough, has been able to purchase and deliver food packages, collect medical prescriptions from local pharmacies and signpost residents in need to other support available.

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Partnerships Cllr Simon Bound said: “These figures show how important this vital work is to provide urgent support to vulnerable residents across our borough and I would like to thank the hundreds of volunteers working hard to support residents most in need.

“We have received some great feedback from people who have been helped by volunteers and we are pleased to have been able to provide financial assistance to keep this support running during this pandemic.

“If you need support, or know anyone who is vulnerable and has no other access to help, please call the Coronavirus Hampshire Helpline to register for this service so we can ensure you get the supplies you need.”

For more information about the Basingstoke and Deane Community Hub visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/covid-19-community-hub and for more information about the support available in your area, please visit www.bvaction.org.uk/basingstoke-deane-community-hubs