Test Valley Community Helpline on 0330 400 4116 run by Unity
Help available during national lockdown
“While this is undoubtedly a worrying time, Test Valley Borough Council stands ready, once again, to support its communities.”
Those were the words of councillor Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, after the government announced the country would be returning to lockdown from today to help stem the spread of coronavirus.
Residents can continue to access a range of support through the Test Valley Community Helpline on 0330 400 4116, run with the council’s community partner, Unity. From food deliveries and prescription collections to a friendly voice at the end of the phone, the helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
As well as a dedicated helpline, there are a number of community groups that have been set up in response to the Covid-19 pandemic who will also be able to help those in need as communities continue to come together. There are more than 50 groups set up across the borough who can help deliver food or other vital supplies, from volunteers to parish councils and other organisations. Information on these groups, including where they are based, who to contact, and how to get help, can be found via the council’s website and via unityonline.org.uk.
TVBC will also be suspending all charges in its car parks for the duration of the lockdown period, as in March, to enable those collecting essential supplies to do so speedily and safely. This will begin from today, Thursday November 5, and will also ensure adequate parking for those who live in the town centre who will be confined to their own homes.
Businesses which will now have to close can also receive grants worth up to £3,000 per month, with the council responsible for administering these grants. When guidance is received from government, the council will be publishing further information on this help, as soon as possible.
Councillor Phil North, said: “This is an incredibly difficult time for our communities, and we’re determined, as an authority, to do absolutely everything we can to help our residents. This year has really shown just how strong a spirit we have, with volunteers, parish councillors and other amazing people stepping forward when their communities needed them most.
“I would urge residents and businesses to keep up to date with the council’s social media pages and website for the latest information and financial aid that may be available. While we await information from government, a number of grant schemes will be open to those who need help in various industries through discretionary relief.
“I know many worry that this lockdown may be harder than the first, in part due to the time of year, but also because people have already spent so much of 2020 separated from their family and friends. It is vital, however, that the government does all it can to protect lives and protect the NHS.
“While this is undoubtedly a worrying time, Test Valley Borough Council stands ready, once again, to support its communities.”