Could this be the answer for Hartlepool families struggling to get their shopping in during the pandemic?

People who struggle to order supplies online during lockdown can access advice and help from Hartlepool Carers.

It is yet another helping hand from the charity which has stepped in with numerous projects since Covid-19 first hit in the UK.

Others have included;

l Free boxes of food which only registered carers can apply for. The boxes contain cupboard essentials and fresh vegetables which vary depending on stock availability.

l The Talking Tuesdays project which helps people with advice on how to keep safe, making the most of your finances and cancer awareness. Mental health support, volunteering and dementia awareness is also among the areas covered.

l The ‘Carers Cycle and Connect’ project where people can loan bikes.

The latest service revealed today offers support to families in Hartlepool who are in isolation or finding it difficult to get their shopping in.

Chief executive Christine Fewster said: “We are working with partners across the town and we are seeing a greater need for families to access essential shopping.

"Many families tell us its not necessarily financial difficulties but the fact families are isolating, with no family to help drop off shopping.

“Through Hartlepool Carers Community Connect Service we are now providing carers and families support to access technology to complete online shopping as well as training.

"Many local shops and bigger supermarkets are now set up to support our communities but we are aware many people do not have the resources or skills to enable them to get their essential food supplies.

Our dedicated link worker will work with families on an individual basis to identify their challenges.

"We can help set up email addresses, accounts with preferred supermarkets and provide training to enable families to complete their own shopping online.”

But the support is not just for those wanting to shop online.

Christine added: “People may not want to use technology in this way. Working with local businesses we can help find other ways to help.”

Since lockdown started, more than 100 people have registered with Hartlepool Carers. That’s on top of the 12,000 people – 10,000 adults and 2,000 children – who were already registered.

The Carers group has been active in offering all sorts of support for members during the pandemic.

It launched its ‘Care for a Cuppa’ virtual weekly get-together every Wednesday at 10am.

It has also sent out packs to young carers, filled with items such as outside games, art and crafts, health and wellbeing resources and ‘plant your own sunflower’.

Then came the packs for adult carers which includes art materials, dominoes, draughts and cards. There is also a support system offering advice over the phone and the Carers has a buddy system.

Now comes the Connect Service and Christine said: “We know the current situation is challenging for families, with isolation and other illnesses, we want to let our community know we are here to help. If you are not a carer and still require this service please still get in touch as some of our partners may be able to help.”

For more information call (01429) 283095.

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