Published on Friday 15 May 2020
A dedicated hotline to support vulnerable residents during the coronavirus crisis has made and received more than 20,000 calls since its launch.
BCP Council launched a Volunteer Hub and dedicated helpline on 27 March in response to the current crisis in order to support vulnerable people who need vital help while isolating at home during the coronavirus outbreak.
The service provides a range of support, from organising deliveries of food, prescriptions and essential household supplies to people in need, and providing information and advice. Additionally, staff working through the Volunteer Hub are making regular telephone calls to help keep people’s spirits up during periods of isolation.
The helpline has been made possible thanks to a team of dedicated Council staff who have been re-deployed from their main roles and who provide a friendly voice at the end of the phone and are contactable from 8am until 8pm, seven days a week.
Councillor Vikki Slade, Leader of BCP Council, said,
"We have had an amazing response to the helpline so far. To date we have matched 1,250 volunteers to individuals who have sought help through the emergency helpline and signposted residents to a range of services including many local independent businesses.
"Our call handlers have spoken to many vulnerable people across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, who are very isolated and do not have any friends or family close by who can help them. We’ve received some lovely feedback from both individuals and volunteers about the difference this service is making to peoples’ lives. I’m so pleased that we can, through our network of committed volunteers, provide the vital help and support that they need at this time.
"We will continue to provide ongoing support to those that need it and I would encourage anyone who is in this position to call our dedicated helpline so that we can connect you with our volunteers and get you the help you need."
The dedicated helpline is 0300 123 7052 and is open 8am – 8pm seven days a week.