Struggle for rural residents to get a delivery
Call for residents to shop locally as big supermarket slots are hard to find
People living in rural Perth and Kinross are still struggling to access food deliveries from major suppliers as the coronavirus lockdown enters its fifth week.
Residents are being encouraged to shop local while a Perthshire MP has contacted delivery firms and supermarkets to seek a solution to the issue.
Chair of Aberfeldy Community Council Victor Clements says new organisations have been setup in their area to help fill the gap.
He said: “It is difficult to be 100 per cent sure that there are not people slipping through the net at present, but for the area that is served by shops and services in Aberfeldy, it seems to me that we have developed a very effective response to this.
“We have a range of organisations such as FeldyRoo, the Tay Valley Timebank, the community larder and the churches looking out for and helping those who are isolating or who are struggling financially, as well as local businesses who are delivering locally.
“They all adapted to the new situation very quickly indeed, and their operations have settled down in to a routine now.
“The town itself is open for business.
“A lot of shops have adapted and diversified what they are doing, and there is no shortage or choice of good food available.
“The shops will tell you that the supply chains are strong and all the basics are there.
“We do see the delivery vans on the road as well, and that is fine, but I think that businesses here will want to accept the challenge of reaching more people.
“We need to be putting out a clear message that local businesses will look out for you now, and please, look out for them when this is all over.
“There is no balance to be struck between supporting local business and getting properly fed.
“If you are needing food or other essential supplies, come in to Aberfeldy, or speak to one of the many businesses who will come to you.
“There is no need to be waiting weeks for one of the big supermarkets.
“In times of crisis, we need as short a supply line as possible.”
Perth and North Perthshire MP, Pete Wishart, has contacted delivery firms and supermarkets regarding the availability of delivery slots in rural Perthshire and the possibility of expanding services to help those in isolation.
Mr Wishart said: “I have been in contact with a number of supermarkets and delivery firms regarding the availability of delivery slots in rural Perthshire.
“Whilst I commend a number of them for vastly expanding provision, I am still being contacted by a number of people who are struggling to get access to food deliveries because they are in isolation.
“I would urge people to consider contacting local businesses, many of whom are offering local delivery for the very first time, but I am also continuing to work with the supermarkets to see what can be done to expand rural delivery options.”
Highland Perthshire ward councillor Mike Williamson added: “I know that our rural communities have really rallied around one another and it is fantastic to see all the community organisations who are helping to keep our vulnerable fed and with supplies of medicine.
“I know that there remains an issue around getting supermarket deliveries in Highland Perthshire and there is a balance to be struck between supporting local businesses and getting access to food.
“I would encourage people to shop locally where they can.”