BEN HOUCHEN: Vulnerable people are reason we must stay at home as much as possible

I am heartened by stories of people doing incredible things right across the region, whether it be neighbours and friends helping the vulnerable, youngsters showing thanks for our incredible health workers, businesses and organisations shifting their focus to help those most in need, or simply those who are finding creative ways to keep people happy and put a smile on someone’s face.

It was great to be out last week with the charity Little Sprouts delivering food for people who are self-isolating or shielding. Everyone was in good spirits but were understandably feeling a bit fed up. They all welcomed a short, socially distanced visit and were over the moon to receive some vital supplies. These vulnerable people are the reason that we must make sure we stay at home as much as possible and follow the public health rules.

At this time of national emergency our NHS is facing an unprecedented challenge. I have been in regular contact with Hartlepool Council, the NHS Trust and the Local Resilience Forum who are coordinating the response across Cleveland and Hartlepool Hospital is playing a hugely important part in our region’s response to this deadly virus.

Let me be clear: Hartlepool Hospital is not closed and will not close. Its hard working and dedicated staff will continue to provide amazing care for the people of Hartlepool throughout these testing times and beyond.

We heard last week that the government has already issued more than 8,000 grants, totalling more than £94 million to help businesses in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool. This is just the start and even more hard-working business owners will get their grants in the coming days and weeks.

Business right across the country are facing challenges and our region is no different, so I’m pleased the government is making sure we get our fair share of support. Hartlepool-based H.T.E.S (Northern), which provides training and assessment services to the engineering, petrochemical and construction sectors, received one of the first coronavirus business interruption loans in the country, enabling it to continue operating even though sales have dropped by 75 per cent.

I know this is a really tough time for businesses, but I cannot stress strongly enough that support is available to help those who are struggling. I would encourage any business which is in need of advice to contact my business support team by calling 01642 662777 or email [email protected].

I have also launched a new website, Buy Local Tees Valley, which is designed to connect local people with businesses and local tradesmen across the region that are still open or operating differently in the face of the outbreak.

It’s easy for businesses to sign up and get listed, and I’d urge as many companies as possible to get registered and make the most of the platform. To sign your business up with the site, or to find out more about local companies still open, visit buylocal.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk.

Take care and stay safe.