Christmas Support Available in North Yorkshire

Friday, 25 December 2020 06:00

Residents across North Yorkshire are being reassured that help is available over the festive period for those who need it.

The County Council say they are leading a relief effort for vulnerable residents who don’t have anybody to call on.

The Customer Service Centre will act as an emergency community support line every day from 9am to 5pm on 01609 780780, for people who are self-isolating and need support but don't have anyone who can help them.

The Stronger Communities team and Team North Yorkshire volunteers will be on stand-by for anyone who needs help and doesn’t have friends or family to contact.

The service centre is closed to all routine queries between Christmas Day and 28 December, then again on New Years Day, but will be available for emergency support. Otherwise, normal opening times of 8am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday apply.

Community support organisations are continuing to help people who have been left isolated by the pandemic to plan ahead. Volunteers have been helping to make sure residents who have relied on support with shopping, collecting medication and other essentials have everything they need over the festive period.

Gary Fielding, the County Council’s Director of Strategic Resources said..

“We have staff and extra volunteers ready to meet any additional demand but we would also encourage people to think ahead about what they might need, particularly food and essential medications,”

The County Council has been working with 23 community support organisations alongside partners and the voluntary sector for the last ten months.

Residents are also being urged to check on their friends, family and neighbours, particularly if they helped someone during the first or second lockdown.

Gary Fielding added:

“I would like to thank our residents who are continuing to look out for those left isolated and the countless volunteers supporting vulnerable people at this difficult time. We’ve seen so much kindness and community spirit, and I know that is continuing.

“While the community support organisations take a well-deserved break over Christmas, our staff are going the extra mile and I want people to feel reassured that we are here to help.”

Household waste recycling centres are closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day. Otherwise, normal opening times of 8am to 4pm every day except Wednesdays apply.

All registration offices are closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, 27 December, 28 December and New Years Day. During the closure appointments can be booked online. https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/births-deaths-marriages