Buckinghamshire Council launches coronavirus support hub

The council is launching #ProudofBucks - a campaign to celebrate the work of the NHS, council staff, voluntary groups, businesses, partners and people in the community as they protect, help and support people in Buckinghamshire during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Community groups and organisations can share the work they’re doing via the Community Support Hub on the council’s new website or by using the hashtag #ProudofBucks on social media. All information gathered will be combined and will serve as a directory for residents who are looking for help.

The website address is: www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus/community-hubOne example is The Risborough Basket, which opened on 30 March. This is a joint effort between Princes Risborough Town Council, the Active Community Bus and local volunteers. It offers free delivery of groceries from the town’s shops to all residents in Princes Risborough. With over 500 deliveries to date, they provide a vital service while helping people to stay at home and therefore save lives.

Local Councillor Alan Turner commented on the initiative: “The idea behind The Risborough Basket scheme is to keep those vulnerable members of our community and others who are self-isolating stocked with fresh fruit & veg, whilst also helping to keep our local small retailers going by delivering their sales as well. It’s been a huge success so far, but it does require good organisational skills, lots of volunteers and someone to oversee the project with good links both within and outside of the community. Also, we mustn’t forget that we could be in this for a considerable period of time, so stamina and determination will be required.”

Councillor Martin Tett, Leader of Buckinghamshire Council, commented:

"I'm very proud of all the great work that our community is doing during these difficult and challenging times. I'm also pleased that Buckinghamshire Council - despite only launching six days ago - has been able to create an online Community Support Hub which residents can use to find local help or to contact organisations that are looking for volunteers.

"If you do get involved in any Buckinghamshire community work related to the coronavirus outbreak, then please let us know by tagging your social media posts with #ProudofBucks."

Communities and individuals can also send an email to: [email protected]