The coronavirus Covid-19 is affecting every single one of our lives us in one way or another. However, there are some that may need support more than others during these trying times - such as the elderly or vulnerable.
My team and I are here to help where and when we can, but I've also been overwhelmed by the number of fantastic local initiatives and support groups that have sprung up locally over the past week or two.
I have compiled a list of some of these below so that if you need help during these difficult times - it will be easier to find. Please feel free to share this information with friends, family, and neighbours who you think would benefit from this.
More detailed advice on COVID-19 can be found at www.matthewofford.co.uk/coronavirus.
Matthew Offord MP
Barnet Age UK
Barnet Age UK aim to help with:
- Shopping
- Changing a light bulb
- Collect prescriptions
- Admin tasks
- Moving furniture
- A cooked meal to your door up to twice a week
- Regular chat over the phone
- Craft packs, e.g. magazines and puzzle books
If you or anyone you know is self-isolating requires support from Barnet Age UK, please contact info@ageukbarnet.org.uk or phone 020 8203 5040.
Edgware Families Facebook group
Many people have posted on the Edgware Families Facebook group offering their support and services. This ranges from qualified teachers offering help and resources for home-schooling, homework-out plans and Personal Training, and information about free care packages for the over 70s to name a few.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/EdgwareFamilies/
Grief Encounter
Dealing with the death of a loved one is hard, but it is especially difficult for children and young people.
Grief encounter are a national charity with offices in Mill Hill which supports bereaved children and their families to help alleviate the pain caused by the death of someone close.
During these challenging times, they are extending their free service to all those impacted by grief and Covid-19. They are there to support NHS staff, Social Care Workers and all those frontline workers who are experiencing the daily pressures of the Coronavirus Pandemic.
Helpline: 0808 802 0111
Chat online: www.griefencounter.org.uk
Email: grieftalk@griefencounter.org.uk
Carmelli Bakery/Yossi’s Bakery
The team at Carmelli understand that many of their customers are isolated at home. In order to reduce the stress of the community, they are kindly offering a FREE DELIVERY SERVICE TO YOUR HOME within the Golders Green, Hendon and Edgware areas. There will be a minimum order of £10.
To place an order, please email Carmelli on delivery@carmelli.co.uk, send a message on WhatsApp or call on 020 8458 7056.
Mill Hill Synagogue
Mill Hill Synagogue (MHS) have put into place an action plan for the elderly members, many of whom will have to self-isolate. MHS have asked the community to look after vulnerable members in their areas and ensure they are cared for.
If you or anyone you know needs extra help during this time, or there is someone you know in isolation that requires meals or other essentials like medication, please contact MHS Welfare using the contact details below:
020 8959 1137
office@millhillsynagogue.co.uk – please mark your email for the attention of Welfare.
https://www.shul.co.uk/contact#welfare
In addition, if anyone needs technical support with online shopping or other online essentials, please do not hesitate to contact HMS.
Beaufort Park Residents Association
Residents are kindly offering to support each other during this difficult time. This support includes:
- Help with shopping
- Dog walking
- A link to a WhatsApp group for residents to discuss matters in more detail
- Offers of telephone calls to reduce loneliness and anxiety during this time
https://www.facebook.com/groups/55506327128/
Inside Mill Hill
The Inside Mill Hill Facebook group offers wealth of support and volunteering opportunities. The group has created a contact form where you can sign up to volunteer as well as register for support services. All information provided is treated confidentially and will not be shared outside of the group. The link to the form is copied below, as well as the group’s Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Insidemillhill/
General support
Supermarkets
Some supermarkets are allocating specific hours for elderly and vulnerable people to shop. They will not have to rush or fight the crowds of panic buyers. I am aware that 9am-11am at Iceland in Edgware is now exclusively for elderly and vulnerable people and Waitrose in Mill Hill also has a dedicated time for older and vulnerable residents. Please do keep an eye on your local stores to see if they are offering a similar service.
Self-Employed/Business Owners
If you are self-employed or a business owner, Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have launched a tax hotline to help businesses concerned about paying their tax due to Covid-19 Coronavirus.
Tel: 0800 0159 559
How can I help?
If you are able to provide any assistance to local residents in need, please contact me on: matthew.offord.mp@parliament.uk or call 020 7219 7083. Please provide your name, an explanation of what help you can provide, and a contact number or email address which you would be happy to be contacted on by residents.
The information given above is as provided by the organisation or individual concerned and is reproduced in good faith by Matthew Offord MP.