CORONAVIRUS - Support network launched to help those who can’t leave home

That’s the message from a new support network launched today to help anyone in Hartlepool who is self- isolating or otherwise unable to leave their home during the Coronavirus outbreak, including those who are at the highest risk and are being advised by the NHS to self-isolate for 12 weeks.

The Hartlepool Support Hub has been organised by Hartlepool Borough Council in partnership with other organisations and a leaflet about the service is being delivered to all homes in the borough over the next few days. It can also be downloaded by clicking here.

The Hartlepool Support Hub will offer:

• Information and advice
• Emotional support
• Delivery of shopping, newspapers and prescriptions; and
• links to other additional services which are offering support

People can contact the Hub by:

• Telephoning 01429 272905 (10am-4pm Mondays to Fridays and 10am-12 noon on Saturdays) or
• Emailing helping@hartlepool.gov.uk

There is also lots of information available at www.hartlepoolnow.co.uk – Hartlepool’s existing local help and support website, which can also be downloaded as an App.

Some Hartlepool residents will receive a letter from the NHS advising them to self-isolate for a period of 12 weeks and that they can ask for “shielding” support for food supplies if they need it – this support will be co-ordinated by the Hartlepool Support Hub.

Jill Harrison, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Director of Adults and Community-Based Services, said: “I would like to reassure everyone in Hartlepool that if they are self-isolating to shield themselves from the virus or if they are otherwise unable to leave their home for whatever reason, they are not alone.

“In Hartlepool’s great tradition of coming together to support one another in times of need, the Hartlepool Support Hub is here to help you stay safe, stay well and stay connected by offering both practical and emotional support.

“We would also very much like to hear from anyone who is not self-isolating who would like to volunteer to help support their community - please contact the Hartlepool Support Hub to offer your support.”