Knutsford Councillors, Tony Dean and Stewart Gardiner are working hard to help those in need and offer guidance to residents during these difficult times.
Last week, Cllr Dean visited the Knutsford Market Hall to speak to local businesses and to discuss the Government measures in place to protect small businesses and employees. After a discussion with local traders, Cllr Dean helped to deliver food to a resident self-isolating on Albert Street who was unable to visit the shops.
Cllr Dean said: “We are in a very difficult situation, individuals and businesses are experiencing unprecedented pressures. However, it is reassuring to see the community of Knutsford coming together to support our local traders, independent businesses and neighbours. Whilst delivering supplies to a resident on Moordale Road, it was heart-warming to see others dropping off shopping outside peoples’ homes.
With all the stories of panic buying and stockpiling, we must not forget about those cannot afford to take such actions. The Welcome Cafe in Longridge is in serious need for supplies and donations – I visited the centre to drop off supplies and speak to the fantastic volunteers who are running the service during these hectic times.”
On 21st March I accompanied Esther McVey, delivering food to older residents and to the Welcome Cafe. The Welcome has morphed into a Food Bank for the duration of the crisis, operated by Hope Central with the Welcome staff - they have tight bio-security on the door and it is working very well.
Having volunteered to help in any way I can via the Tatton Conservative Association office, I am now on the volunteer list for WeareKnutsford.org. As a result, nearly every day for the last week I have been called on to take an order and then go shopping for less mobile couples and individuals in Knutsford.
Cllr Stewart Gardiner has also been busy helping those in isolation and answering the questions of Knutsford residents.
Cllr Gardiner explained: “Our community has shown an amazing spirit and sense of collective responsibility. It has been touching to see those who can, help those who can’t. I urge any resident who is concerned about their own situation or that of a neighbour – please get in touch.
Over the past few weeks, I have been responding to residents who have concerns and questions and whilst face to face discussions are no longer wise, I am still able to respond via the telephone and email. Alongside answering queries, I've been helping with deliveries of essential foods and prescription collection. It's been great to work with the fantastic team at #WeareKnutsford, collecting and delivering prescriptions to residents on Thorneyholme Drive".
If like me, you can help, please do so. This week, the Health and Social Care Secretary, Matt Hancock, announced a campaign asking members of the public to sign up as an NHS Volunteer Responder. All those who are well and able to do so safely, are encouraged to offer their support to reduce the pressures on our NHS and care system".
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To sign up as an NHS Volunteer Responder, please visit: goodsamapp.org.uk/NHS “
Cllr Gardiner and Cllr Dean encourage residents to call 01565 632181 if they have any questions for their Councillors or wish to receive help.
