2020

Council humanitarian response helps 800 households during coronavirus pandemic

Date Posted: 2:25 PM on Mon, 1 June 2020

Gedling Borough Council humanitarian response helps 800 households during coronavirus pandemic

A council leisure centre that was transformed into a humanitarian centre has helped over 800 families in need because of the Coronavirus outbreak. The most common requests include assistance with shopping or collecting prescriptions for those unable to leave their home.

The Richard Herrod Centre, Carlton, normally an indoor bowls and conference centre, was turned into the main headquarters for the council’s humanitarian response to the coronavirus outbreak. The centre became a super food bank as part of the council’s Giving for Gedling campaign that aimed to support vulnerable residents affected by the virus.

Since the centre opened in March, the centre has provided food parcels for 620 residents, over 93% of those residents are in the government’s vulnerable category classification and over 50% were elderly residents aged over 70. In total, the council has so far assisted 801 households who have contacted them for help.

The council launched a crowdfunding scheme to raise funds for the food bank and it received £20,000 in just 24 hours from the generous members of public in Gedling. The money has been used to purchase food supplies for the centre, which has also been shared with other local food banks in the borough.

Over 500 residents have signed up to volunteer to help distribute food, deliver parcels and medicines as part of the giving for Gedling scheme.

Any residents who require support can contact the council by calling 0115 901 3901 or by visiting www.gedling.gov.uk/givingforgedling.

Leader of Gedling Borough Council, Councillor John Clarke said:

“I am really pleased with the way in which we have been able to help some of our most vulnerable residents who are struggling to cope because of this terrible virus. Our staff have been working with the local charities and churches to get this humanitarian centre up and running as soon as possible and it’s great that is has helped so many people. 

We are under no illusions that for many, this hardship has just begun and we urge any residents who need help to get in touch. We are ready and waiting to assist you. If you know someone who might need some help, please let us know and we can offer our assistance.”