Help is a phone call away

Staff from across Renfrewshire have been deployed to the council’s Local Assistance Helpline.

Workers from a range of services are now accepting calls on the helpline, which was set up to support residents who have been asked to remain at home for the next 12 weeks.

People with the most serious health concerns and those aged over 70 have been asked not to leave home in a bid to shield them from the coronavirus.

The helpline is taking calls from people who do not have a network of people that can collect medicines and food on their behalf.

Offering advice and reassurance to callers, staff are organising essential supplies to be sent to their homes and directing them to other support agencies available should they need more assistance.

A council spokesman said: “The helpline is supported by a dedicated team, deployed from across the council, to provide advice and reassurance and support referrals to this vital service.

“Feedback, so far, has been fantastic, as members of the public have expressed their gratitude for the support they are receiving from the council and staff at this difficult time.”

Buddies are being encouraged to pass the helpline number – 0300 300 0230 – to anyone in their community who they feel may benefit from the service.

All referrals are passed to the council’s local assistance team, which then fully assess the person’s needs and welfare.

Parcels are then packed and distributed from Castlehead High School and Parkmains High School by frontline staff in environment and infrastructure service.