Coronavirus helpline set up for Northamptonshire's most vulnerable

A support line has been launched to support the most vulnerable people in Northamptonshire during the coronavirus crisis.

The helpline, which will be managed by the customer service centre at Northamptonshire County Council, goes live today (Tuesday).

It allows those who cannot leave their homes under current restrictions and those who are self-isolating and have nobody to call upon for help to request support in getting access to food, prescriptions and other vital services that they require.

Cllr Matthew Golby, leader of Northamptonshire County Council, said: “The launch of this new support line means that we can provide care and support to those that really need our help.

“By working together with our borough and district council colleagues, and with the hundreds of groups and individuals who have volunteered their help, we will be able to provide coordinated local support to the most vulnerable across the county."

It comes after a successful appeal last week to find volunteers to help those in need including those displaying symptoms of the virus, which has now affected at least 153 people in Northamptonshire. Eight people in the county who had tested positive for COVID-19 have died.

Others in need include those with existing health conditions, those who are pregnant or those aged 70 and above.

Each call to the helpline will be triaged so that individuals receive the care and support that is appropriate to their needs.

The Community Resilience Service will co-ordinate requests for help in conjunction with the district and borough councils, mapping those requests by area and linking them up with local community groups, volunteers and voluntary organisations who have pledged their support.

Those requiring help are asked to call the support line on 0300 126 1000 (option 5).

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