Vulnerable People Support

Cumbria County Council and partners including SLDC have launched a new emergency support service for people at high risk of becoming seriously ill, as a result of COVID-19, and who do not have support available from friends, family or neighbours.

Those at high risk include people over 70 years old, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions who should be protecting themselves by staying at home.

The majority of these people will already be receiving support from family, friends or local voluntary groups with tasks like shopping or collection of medicines if they require it.

But we know that a small number of people will not have this support. If they have no alternative, these people will now be able to call the Freephone number to request help with getting food, medicines, essential supplies and home deliveries.

Cumbria County Council has been working closely with district councils, CVS, Cumbria Community Foundation, community and voluntary sector, private sector and military to establish these new arrangements.

To support the new helpline every area is coordinating a supply of essential food, medicines and supplies which can only be accessed via the emergency helpline or email.

The requests received asking for help will then be matched with local support and supplies being offered by community groups, volunteers, councils and businesses.

The Emergency telephone support line is 0800 783 1966

Or you can email your request for help to COVID19support@cumbria.gov.uk.

Further details about this support service can be found online at Cumbria.gov.uk

The telephone ‘call’ centre will operate Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5pm and 10am to 2pm at weekends.

The service will also accept referrals from members of the public who may be concerned about people in their community.