BAGS AND BAGS OF LOVE AND CARE
Council reveals it has provided more than 27,000 meals to most at-risk residents
Vulnerable residents who have been told to stay inside for 12 weeks have received more than 27,000 meals from kind-hearted council staff.
A team of response officers has been delivering food and medicine to residents who are deemed to be at high risk of severe illness – otherwise known as the shielded group – if they catch Covid-19.
Some of the officers have been redeployed from their usual roles if they are not needed in their regular job or are unable to work from home - such as some employees from environment and infrastructure.
As these residents cannot leave their homes under any circumstances, the team has provided a vital service to ensure they
are stocked up with any essential they may need.
And the council has announced more than 27,000 meals have now been delivered to those most in need.
Renfrewshire Council leader Iain Nicolson said he was delighted with the commitment staff have shown in adapting to an unprecedented situation.
He said: “We are proud our staff are delivering essential food supplies to support vulnerable people across Renfrewshire.
“Their dedication and support has been incredible and I’d like to thank each and every staff member doing their bit to help those most in need within our communities.
“Across our communities, there are a lot of people going above and beyond to support family members and neighbours through this difficult time.”
Many people will have friends and family they can rely on to bring them essentials, but, for those without a support network, the council service has proved crucial for their health and well-being.
Conditions that can place someone in the shielded group include certain cancers, cystic fibrosis and severe asthma.
Anyone who is not receiving this support from the council, but feels they should be can call the local assistance helpline on 0300 300 0230.
Staff can also help provide well-being support, money advice and access to financial help via this number.
The Scottish Government is running a text message service to keep in touch and send the latest updates to people who are shielding, with those who receive a letter asked to text 07860 064525 with their tendigit CHI number found at the top of the letter they received.
For more information on shielding, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/coronavirusshielding.