Hubs set to offer help and support
Horsham District Council has set out more information about how the vulnerable can access support during the coronavirus crisis.
The Government is organising direct provision of essential food and medical provisions for those identified as extremely vulnerable by the NHS who need them, a council spokeswoman said.
She added: “We are aware that some of these households have already contacted their local council community hubs.
“We have processes in place to make sure these households are directed to the right support. People who received a letter from the NHS because they are at high risk if they catch the coronavirus and don’t have a support network of friends and family around them, are reminded to visit www.gov.uk/coronavirusextremely-vulnerable or call 0800 0288327, the Government’s dedicated helpline.”
Anyone who has not received an NHS letter, but is considered vulnerable or is having to self-isolate without support from friends or family can access support through 27 community volunteer hubs across the district.
These include older people who are having to self-isolate, the lower level medically vulnerable, anyone currently known to district or county council services, carers and those living with a vulnerable person, she said.
The Hubs are manned by volunteers, giving practical help such as going for shopping and medicines, and providing emotional support, with a friendly phone call for those who are isolated at home.
This group of people will continue to receive help through their existing statutory services.
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Council Cabinet Member for Community Matters and Wellbeing councillor Tricia Youtan thanked the volunteers and the council’s community teams for making the initiative a success.
She said: “Everyone has pulled together and their actions have shown an amazing community spirit.”