How Northampton charities and communities are rallying around older people during coronavirus pandemic

A number of community groups and charities have already begun to rally around older people due to the coronavirus.

The Government has not yet announced that over 70s have to self-isolate to protect themselves from the virus, however Boris Johnson discussed it during his press conference yesterday (March 16).

Some groups in Northampton have already taken it upon themselves to help the older generation in as many ways as they can.

The Lewis Foundation, which provides gifts and support to cancer patients, has teamed up with ‘From Me to You’ a national charity that disturbs letters to isolated cancer patients.

Alison Hitchcock of From Me to You said: “The requests for letters have doubled over the last few weeks as more vulnerable people spend time alone.

“Sending a letter or postcard to someone self isolating is a simple thing to do but will make such a difference. We can all do our bit.”

The Foundation has now agreed to distribute letters to hospitals in the Northamptonshire area to help combat loneliness at this unprecedented time.

Another group that is taking steps to help older people during the pandemic is Blisworth friendship group.

The group was set up at the beginning of the year to help combat loneliness in older people has had to cancel their next meeting on Wednesday March 25.

However, Janet Steeper who helps to run the group says she has everybody’s number who usually attends the group.

She said: “I will ring constantly and make sure they are all OK.

“Our volunteers are also offering to go to our local shop to get them any groceries if they need any.

“Everybody has been quite rational and sensible. As long as we keep in touch and keep chatting, that’s all we can do.

“We’re just being good neighbours, that’s all.”

In Grange Park, one resident has taken it upon himself to set up a Facebook group to help keep people informed about stock in local shops.

The group is also looking into a way they can help neighbours and older people in the area.

If you have ideas about how the group can be of help, get in contact on their Facebook page. The Northamptonshire Women’s Institute has also made the decision to cancel all its events and trips that were planned for the rest of March and April.