ADVICE ON OFFER TO HELP 'NEEDY' MAINTAIN PHYISCAL AND MENTAL WELLBEING WHILE ACCCESSING SERVICES TO COMBAT ISOLATION

ATHERSTONE twin civic leader David Wright has called on the district's "very vulnerable" residents to identify themselves so they can be helped through the coronavirus crisis.

The town council chairman and leader of North Warwickshire Borough Council says it is "absolutely vital" residents pull together to support the needy as they face coming to terms with enforced isolation.

Civic-led food parcels are now being delivered on a weekly basis in addition to the 100 meals going out from an operation being orchestrated by Atherstone Coffee Shop owner Angie Spencer on Mondays and Fridays from St Nicholas Church hall, Baddesley Ensor.

Councillor Wright said: "I would urge anyone in North Warwickshire who can't get any help from family or friends to get in touch with us immediately.

"We are here to help."

Thousands of families in Atherstone and surrounding villages are finding new and innovative ways to keep in touch, check in on neighbours in need and do their bit to support those feeling lonely and scared in the light of Government advice to heed the #StayHomeSaveLives diktat.

People with underlying conditions have been asked to shield themselves for 12 weeks and Cllr Wright says it is "critical" to keep individuals safe and well, while protecting crucial NHS capacity.

"This extremely vulnerable group must stay in their homes, so services are working together to support them during this difficult time," he added.

Working in partnership, from town through to county council level and supported by the voluntary and community sectors, police and the military, a network to distribute essential items and co-ordinate wider support to clinically vulnerable people who are self-isolating has been established.

Included in the packages of food is guidance about staying safe and well, as well as signposting to listening services.

A borough council spokeswoman added: "The prospect of remaining indoors for an extended period of time is daunting so advice to help them maintain physical and mental health and access services to combat social isolation will also be offered."

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