Vulnerable residents across the borough will continue to be supported with essential supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to funding from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.
The borough council is working closely with Hampshire County Council, Basingstoke Voluntary Action (BVA) and community groups across the borough to ensure vulnerable residents receive urgent support they need.
Hampshire County Council is acting as the main co-ordination point for all district community hubs in the county with a hotline. The Coronavirus Hampshire Helpline – Hantshelp4vulnerable – can be contacted on 0333 370 4000. The helpline is available seven days a week, from 9am to 5pm.
Vulnerable residents who need help, and do not have support from family or friends, should call the helpline to register for support. The county council will resolve complex cases and will pass on most other enquiries to the Basingstoke and Deane Community Hub to arrange support, such as deliveries of food and medical supplies.
As part of this, BVA is co-ordinating the work of community groups who are delivering supplies to vulnerable residents. To ensure this support can continue, the borough council has awarded up to £200,000 to BVA.
This vital funding will allow BVA to provide grants to community groups to ensure they can purchase and distribute food for residents unable to leave their homes due to self-isolating, provide protective equipment for volunteers and ensure community hubs across the borough can continue to stay open.
Community groups looking to apply for a grant should visit www.bvaction.org.uk/coronavirus-grant
Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Cllr Ken Rhatigan said: “We know this is a worrying time for our residents and we are committed to working closely with Basingstoke Voluntary Action and community groups across the borough to deliver essential supplies to those who need it most.
“I am pleased, because of our sound financial management, we have been able to provide this additional emergency funding to help BVA and support community groups to continue this fantastic work during this unprecedented time.”
Chief Executive at Basingstoke Voluntary Action Tony Capon added: “We are delighted to receive this funding from the council. I am inspired by the amazing work being carried out by community groups and volunteers right across the borough during this difficult time.
“This vital funding will allow us to target financial support where it can make the most difference and help groups to continue delivering this important support to our most vulnerable residents across the borough.”
For more information about the council’s response to COVID-19 and more information about the support available, please visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/coronavirus
