THOUSANDS of vulnerable residents feel "overwhelmed" with the support they are getting to stay safe during the coronavirus pandemic.
Bracknell Forest's Community Response team and local volunteers have helped self-isolating residents in Bracknell who need essential supplies and a person to talk too.
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The scheme is currently supporting 1,949 residents who have registered that they are 'extremely vulnerably' on the government website.
One vulnerable resident in Bracknell said: "I have been called to see if I need anything and have been overwhelmed with the concern for my wellbeing. I feel less isolated, less alone and feel there is always someone there for me at the end of the phone.
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“I have had help with walking my dog and also a volunteer took my glasses to be fixed and had this done within two hours. I am very grateful and feel that the help I have received has eased my loneliness. The volunteering is a brilliant service.”
A joint partnership between Bracknell Forest Council, Healthwatch Bracknell Forest and Involve Community Services, supported by town and parish councils, has seen 1,800 volunteers recruited.
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Residents have received phone calls from council staff and have had help with online shopping and prescription deliveries.
Just under 12,000 calls were made to Healthwatch from residents looking for support.
Community Response volunteers and Healthwatch staff have completed 1,134 tasks in total, including deliveries of food and prescriptions.
Cllr Paul Bettison, OBE, leader of Bracknell Forest Council, said: “The past few weeks have been like no other and I have been extremely moved by the efforts of the community, the council’s partners and our staff, to support those most in need during this time.
“For those shielding or self-isolating with no support around them, receiving a phone call to check on them and ensure they have all they need can make all the difference to their day.
“I’d like to thank each and every one of the local volunteers who have committed to giving their time to support the response. We couldn’t do this without you.”
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Andrea McCombie from Healthwatch, said: “The response from the people of Bracknell Forest has been fantastic and we would like to thank everyone who has come forward to volunteer, our local area volunteer coordinators and the staff of Healthwatch Bracknell Forest, all of whom are working to provide the most vulnerable people of the borough a great service, seven days a week.”
Phil Cook, General Manager, Involve Community Services, said: “Thanks to all those who have come forward to volunteer, even those who are not yet matched and volunteering, we are still grateful for your offer and you still may yet be needed.
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“All the staff and volunteers at Involve and elsewhere in our communities are doing such vital work to keep people safe and well. The numbers of people supported just shows what a difference we are all making. Thanks to all!”
Visit: bit.ly/supportforvulnerable for more information
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