'You are not alone' - message to people in Hartlepool after new support network launched

The Hartlepool Support Hub has been organised by Hartlepool Borough Council in partnership with other organisations and a leaflet about the service has been delivered to homes in the borough.

Council chiefs urged residents ‘are not alone’ with the launch of the new service, which aims to help those self-isolating, unable to leave their home, and at the highest risk of coronavirus.

The Hartlepool Support Hub will offer:

Information and advice Emotional support Delivery of shopping, newspapers and prescriptions; and Links to other additional services which are offering support

Jill Harrison, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Director of Adults and Community-Based Services, said it is an example of the town’s ‘great tradition to come together to support one another’.

She said: “I would like to reassure everyone in Hartlepool that if they are self-isolating to shield themselves from the virus or if they are otherwise unable to leave their home for whatever reason, they are not alone.

“In Hartlepool’s great tradition of coming together to support one another in times of need, the Hartlepool Support Hub is here to help you stay safe, stay well and stay connected by offering both practical and emotional support.

“We would also very much like to hear from anyone who is not self-isolating who would like to volunteer to help support their community – please contact the Hartlepool Support Hub to offer your support.”

Council bosses also noted some Hartlepool residents will receive a letter from the NHS advising them to self-isolate for a period of 12 weeks and that they can ask for “shielding” support for food supplies if they need it.

They said this support will be co-ordinated by the Hartlepool Support Hub.

People can contact the Hub by telephoning 01429 272905 (10am-4pm Mondays to Fridays and 10am-12 noon on Saturdays) emailing [email protected]

There is also information available at www.hartlepoolnow.co.uk – Hartlepool’s existing local help and support website, which can also be downloaded as an App.