Leader of Kirklees Council launches helpline for residents struggling to get essential help

The helpline aims to offer support to the most vulnerable people, and those who do not currently have friends, family or neighbours who are able to help.

The co-ordinated Community Response has been developed in partnership with Third Sector Leaders and a network of voluntary sector organisations across Kirklees.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Shabir Pandor, and Chief Executive Jacqui Gedman have written to every household in Kirklees to share the helpline details and to thank residents for the inspiring community response. The letter explains how you can get help if you need it and how you can safely help your neighbours, along with advice on staying healthy, protecting the NHS and saving lives.

Coun Shabir Pandor, Leader of Kirklees Council, said: “The response from communities across Kirklees to the COVID-19 crisis has been incredible. So many voluntary groups and individuals have stepped up to help each other and to protect the most vulnerable. Our staff, partner organisations and local mutual aid groups are working together to continue to support people over the coming weeks.

“This major global disaster has posed massive unprecedented challenges to everyone and it is very difficult, but despite all this it has also brought out the best in people and communities across Kirklees. We wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who has been part of the response in our local communities. It has been truly inspiring, heart-warming and very positive to see how much people care for each other and for their local communities.

“To everyone following the government’s advice, working on the frontline of public services or volunteering the relief effort in your community - we are hugely grateful to you.”

The Council have redeployed staff into four virtual Community hubs who are working closely with partners to make sure that vulnerable residents are supported as and when requests for help come in.

Council staff, community organisations and local volunteers across Kirklees are already helping to get food and essential supplies to people who are vulnerable and following government advice to stay at home. Others are assisting people to look after their homes or pets and helping people to contact friends and family.

The response effort has been bolstered by 900 offers of support that have been received via the helpline or online forms.

Hundreds of volunteers have already been registered with Kirklees Council and are working with the council’s volunteer co-ordinators.

Residents can request essential support, or offer help to others, by visiting www.kirklees.gov.uk/Covid19Response or by calling 01484 226919.

The helpline is open from 8am to 6pm weekdays, 10am to 4pm on weekends and bank holidays.