Warwick and Leamington Covid-19 Mutual Aid group urging residents to check in on those facing Christmas alone

The group said that with government guidance advising people to resist the temptation to mix indoors, those spending the festive days alone are likely to be far more numerous than usual
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With Christmas 2020 set to be different, the Warwick and Leamington Covid-19 Mutual Aid group are asking people to check in on those who are facing Christmas day alone.

The group said that with government guidance advising people to resist the temptation to mix indoors, those spending the festive days alone are likely to be far more numerous than usual.

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Over at Warwick and Leamington’s Covid-19 Mutual Aid group, Phone Pals coordinator, Sarah Jones is adamant that the challenge of living through the pandemic has had many positive effects on the community.

Sarah Jones, coordinator of Phone Pals. Photo submittedSarah Jones, coordinator of Phone Pals. Photo submitted
Sarah Jones, coordinator of Phone Pals. Photo submitted

She said: “We have seen first-hand how incredibly kind and compassionate people have been, offering their time and support for free.

“Whatever the weather, our volunteers have been out delivering essential food supplies and medication for residents in need, as well as making those all-important phone calls to folk who lack regular contact with friends and family.”

As Sarah looks forward to placing Phone Pals’ 4,000th call, she makes a plea on behalf of all those local people who are facing Christmas on their own this December.

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She said: “Single householders are suffering more than the rest of us over this difficult period.

"Why not put some of those 'free minutes' to good use and phone one of your friends, neighbours or relatives, who lives alone?

"A warm, friendly voice could make their day. Remember, 'if a friend's alone, just pick up the phone'”.

The group also said the big supermarket chains and pharmacies have responded by extending their shopping assistance for vulnerable people.

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These include Morrisons, who now offer a selection of 47 ‘essential items’ by phone, delivered to people's door for free if they qualify – to find out more phone 0345 611 6111 and press ‘Option 5’.

Midcounties Co-op, also provide a similar service, which can be reached on 0800 435 902.

NHS Responders are also offer a similar range of support services to the Covid-19 Mutual Aid Group on 0808 196 3646, whilst Warwickshire-based Connectwell - a telephone befriending line - provides weekly calls from volunteers on 01788 539572, and Age UK’s helpline is open 24/7 on 0800 470 8090.

Local pharmacy, ‘Birks and Nagra’, will deliver free to a wide range of customers, except on Saturdays, and they have five branches throughout the district.

If anyone would like to volunteer, need help with essential deliveries or would like a friendly chat with one of the Phone Pals team, call 01926 674065 or go to: www.warwickleamingtoncovidhelp.co.uk