Knaresborough helpline supports residents struggling during lockdown

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People across town have been connected with volunteers who can help them while the country is on lockdown - even if it is just calling a neighbour for a friendly chat.

Knaresborough Connectors, which started the dedicated hotline, said it has been a really useful tool for residents.

Nick Garrett, who manages Knaresborough Connectors, the community support organisation authorised by North Yorkshire County Council, said: “Many people in isolation have found the helpline reassuring and have been brilliant in passing on their advice about handling isolation for us to share.

“We urgently need people to email us to volunteer to leaflet neighbourhoods as part of their daily exercise regime as many frail, elderly people already in isolation won’t see this number.”

Volunteers are also needed to add to the army of over 100 people leafleting households as part of their single daily exercise routine with details of the service.

There is also a dedicated Facebook page full of ideas including activities for children, health advice and links to a number of groups which will provide critical support to everyone whether vulnerable, key worker or social-distancing citizen.Knaresborough businesses are also continuing to pull out the stops to deliver, even though the majority of retail outlets have had to close their physical doors.

Bill Taylor, Secretary at the Chamber of Trade said: “Several businesses have started a delivery service to maintain trade and support the residents of the town and there’s a complete list on the Knaresborough Connectors Facebook page. This does not include just food but a range of products that we hope everyone will want to continue to purchase.”

Peter Lacey, co-ordinator for the response, added: “we’ll all face challenges and uncertainty over the coming weeks, with low points that make us pause and wonder how on earth all this came about, but we will come through stronger if we face them together and with a spirit of service to others.

“Whoever we are, we’ll all need some support at one point or another, but at the same time everybody also has something to offer. So, stay connected even in this unprecedented period of lockdown.”

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To volunteer, email [email protected] with your name and address. If you need help, call 07593 882 340.