New Helpline For Support During Coronavirus Pandemic
Vulnerable isolated residents can access support from a Community Hub
Vulnerable, isolated residents can now access support from a new Community Hub launched this Tuesday (24 March) by Wandsworth Council. The hub has been set-up to co-ordinate the support being offered by the council and Wandsworth’s voluntary organisations during the coronavirus pandemic.
It is a first response for residents, particularly those people who are elderly and/or vulnerable without support networks, who need support to access medical/care services and food supplies. It is designed to help those most in need stay safe and well while they self-isolate at home.
The Community Hub will be linked to the Government’s Local Support Scheme, which is set to launch shortly to support the 1.5 million people identified by the NHS as being at highest risk of severe illness and for whom self-isolation is most critical. Those residents will be hearing from the NHS directly with healthcare advice.
From Tuesday, March 24 you will be able to contact the Community Hub on the following helpline number - (020) 8871 6555 or by email at covid19support@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk
Households across Wandsworth also will be receiving a letter in the next few days from the Leader of Wandsworth Council Ravi Govindia with details of the Community Hub helpline.
Cllr Govindia said: “This continues to be a challenging time for everyone as we come to terms with new ways of living, working and behaving. This is why we have set up the Community Hub so please make a note of the helpline telephone number and the email address to use when needed.
“The helpline is for anyone in need of support or who has a question regarding Coronavirus. However, it is particularly important for those who are elderly or vulnerable. So if you need help please do not hesitate to pick up the phone or send an email; we have a team of volunteers and staff who can assist you.”
Cllr Govindia added: “By sending a letter to every household in the borough, it is hoped that we can get the message to everyone – especially those who are not able to access the internet – that there is a council contact point for all our residents who may need help.
“I want to thank again everyone from across Wandsworth who continues to do such a fantastic job, day in day out, to support our communities.
“Please continue to look after yourselves and follow Government and NHS advice if you feel unwell. And remember your council is here to help. We are all in this together and together we will get through this.”
For general medical advice and information please continue to contact the NHS via 111.nhs.uk/ or by phoning 111. There is also specific coronavirus help and advice at 111.nhs.uk/covid-19/.
Please continue to follow public health guidance which can be found at www.wandsworth.gov.uk/coronavirus
March 25, 2020