RESIDENTS identified as extremely vulnerable in Warwickshire have received support packages thanks to efforts from services across the county.
More than 750 packages have already been delivered with more to follow. They include food, leaflets and advice on emotional support, guidance to help people stay physically and mentally well, and information on services that can accessed remotely such as libraries and heritage.
Since the Government advised people with serious underlying medical conditions to shield themselves from COVID-19 by isolating for 12 weeks, Warwickshire’s public, voluntary and community services have worked around the clock to set up support structures for them.
They are contacting Warwickshire residents in this group to find out what support they have from family, friends and neighbours so those without help can get food, medicine and emotional support at this time.
The services have joined forces to establish a local helpline and distribution centres around the county to ensure people have access to vital supplies.
It has been a huge coordination task between the county’s six councils, emergency services, the fire and rescue service, police, CCGs and the voluntary and community sectors, supported by military planners.
Part of the initiative involves supporting the distribution of medicines and community transport and Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service is helping pharmacies to deliver prescriptions to people.
Warwickshire County Council chief executive Monica Fogarty said: “We are here to help Warwickshire’s communities and residents during these challenging times.
“The speed at which Warwickshire’s public services united to support those who are, for their own safety, isolating themselves is fantastic. I am so proud of the partnership approach and tireless contribution of all involved to deliver for the people who most need our help.”
The work will continue in earnest throughout the isolation period and a Government supply chain via food distributors will ensure supplies for these people.
Next steps for Warwickshire are to develop a system to conduct regular and effective welfare checks to keep in touch with people and provide ongoing support which will wrap around the food deliveries.
Public services are also looking to extend the scheme to others identified as in need at this time.
Anyone identified as extremely clinically vulnerable without social support can call the Warwickshire hotline on 0800 4081447. Warwickshire County Council is open for business, for service information and support please visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk or call 01926 410410.