New hotline launched to help the extremely vulnerable
A HOTLINE number has been set up for the extremely vulnerable in Warwickshire - after more than 8,000 were revealed to be on the list of those that might need extra help during the lockdown.
Latest figures have shown that there are 8,500 Warwickshire residents on the government’s Extremely Vulnerable List.
Of that total, around 4,000 have responded to the letter they have received, and around 1,200 have said they need help with essential supplies.
Community hubs have been set up across the county to offer such emergency help, including delivering essential food parcels.
Those who are struggling and need help are being told that there is a dedicated hotline number to get help.
“The government has notified us of a number of people identified as particularly vulnerable who have been advised to ‘shield’ themselves for 12 weeks and we are continuing to understand their needs,” said a spokesperson for Warwickshire County Council.
“For those who have no support in place we will arrange weekly deliveries of essential items and provide links to any other support they may need.
“The recently launched hotline number is for this group of people and to afford them the best protection we request that the line is reserved for them.
“In addition to this group the council, and public, voluntary and community partners in the districts and boroughs, are working with individuals to help keep them connected and get help and access any services they may need. “
Families struggling to feed their children are being offered help via the Local Welfare Scheme.
“It helps people at times of unavoidable crisis when they have no other means of support,” said the Shire Hall spokesperson.
“Warwickshire residents can apply by calling 0800 4081448 or 01926 359182 or emailing warwickshirelocalwelfarescheme@warwickshire.gov. uk with their name and telephone number.”