Hart District Council would like to say a huge thank-you to all the volunteers who have stepped up to support people in their community during the third lockdown.
The Council is working closely with Hampshire County Council, Hart Voluntary Action and community groups to ensure that the right support is available to those who need it most.
The Hart Response Hub – led by Hart Voluntary Action in partnership with Hart District Council – and local volunteers continues to work hard to offer practical assistance such as prescription collection and shopping for food and essentials, as well as a friendly phone call if needed.
The Hampshire Coronavirus Support and Helpline on 0333 370 4000 has also extended its opening hours and can signpost people to information, advice and relevant services for a range of issues.
There has been a wonderful community response during the national lockdown, ranging from Fleet Lions who the Council supported with an IT project which gives donated computers to children for home study, and Hart Foodbank that continues to distribute emergency supplies to struggling families.
Funding support
In response to the latest lockdown and in partnership with Hart Voluntary Action, the Council has re-opened its grant scheme for groups providing emergency community support during the coronavirus pandemic.
Response groups providing practical support to Hart residents, such as shopping for food and essentials and prescription collection, will be able to apply for a grant of up to £300.
Any group or organisation interested in applying to this fund should first read the information on the website at www.hart.gov.uk/covid-19-supporting-our-residents and email covid19help@hartvolaction.org.uk to ensure they meet the criteria before making an application.
A small grant fund will also be launched shortly to assist groups and projects working with clinically vulnerable people in the district, with the aim of tackling social isolation and supporting people to regain confidence and independence. Further information about the remit of the fund and how to apply will follow soon.
Mental wellbeing
Information about how to take care of your mental wellbeing during the pandemic and the support available from local and national services can be found on the Council’s website at www.hart.gov.uk/covid-19-health-wellbeing.
Councillor David Neighbour, Leader of Hart District Council, said: “This is a very difficult time for all of us as we continue to adhere to lockdown guidance. We recognise that many of our residents are struggling financially and whose mental wellbeing has been affected – we want them to know that support is available.
“I would like to thank all of our volunteers and community groups who are working so hard alongside the Council to help those in need.”
