Partners across the public, private and voluntary sectors have worked together to create a “community hub” to co-ordinate help and support for residents across the borough during the coronavirus outbreak.
Burnley Together was launched today (Monday 23rd) to help the most vulnerable people in our community who are facing difficulties, worries and loneliness as a result of the outbreak.
The hub will provide a “one-stop shop” where businesses, groups and individuals who want to help and can offer services, and those who need help, can be brought together.
It includes a dedicated helpline – 01282 686402 – which will operate seven days a week between 9am and 5pm. The lines will be manned by experienced call handlers that are able to signpost people to the services they need.
There is also a Facebook page “Burnley Together” for people to get in touch and offer or access services and support, webpage www.burnleytogether.org.ukand email address contact@burnleytogether.org.uk
The services that we will help with initially are:
- Obtaining food parcels
- Help with shopping
- Meals on wheels
- Dog walking
- Collecting prescriptions
- Dealing with social isolation and loneliness
- Financial and debt advice
- Housing advice
Burnley Council leader Charlie Briggs said: “I’d like to thank all the partners who are taking part, and who will be getting involved, in this initiative, including Calico, Lancashire County Council, Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Council for Voluntary Services, Burnley Leisure, Burnley FC in the Community, Spacious Places, the Football Trust and the faith sector.
“I’m particularly grateful, but not surprised, to see the fantastic support we’re getting from the faith and voluntary community sectors who are all pulling together in this time of need.
“We’re expecting there to be a high demand for this service and I’d ask that people are patient when they make contact and we will work together to get through everything as quickly as possible.
“Our borough prides itself on its strong community spirit and now, more than ever, we need to tap into that and look after and support each other.
“Together we can get through the current crisis and I know there are loads of people and groups out there who are doing their best to help others, particularly the more vulnerable members of our society.
“Burnley Together is just that – our borough pulling together to be strong for each other.
”As always people should follow Government and NHS guidelines in terms of social distancing and staying healthy and avoid coming together in large groups, following handwashing procedures etc where applicable.
Philip Jones, director for The Calico Group, said: “As a Burnley-based company, it is a privilege to be able to play our part in helping our community – especially those people who are most concerned or at risk.
“Burnley Together can combine the passion of our local people and the civic pride of our local businesses to make a real difference for those who really need our help.”