How Calderdale Council and firefighters will be joining forces to help the vulnerable

From this week, the most vulnerable residents will receive food parcels, containing essential items such as pasta, fruit, tinned goods and toilet rolls.

The Government will arrange direct delivery of these parcels in future, but the Council is arranging delivery of initial packages this week to homes across Calderdale.

The people receiving the food parcels are those who have been advised by the NHS that they must stay at home for 12 weeks to be shielded, as they are extremely vulnerable to the virus.

Building on their long-standing excellent partnership working, Calderdale Council and the Fire Service have joined forces to make sure residents receive their food parcels quickly.

When delivering food parcels, Fire Service staff will take the opportunity to talk to these extremely vulnerable residents to assess whether they need any additional support, which can be provided by the Council’s social care staff and amazing volunteers.

Councillor Tim Swift, Leader of Calderdale Council, said: “I am incredibly impressed by the amazing team effort going into the COVID-19 response. Across Calderdale we’re seeing examples of people coming together and doing all they can to keep our communities safe and look after our most vulnerable residents – even if it’s outside their usual work role or comfort zone.

“We are extremely grateful for the support of West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service. At this difficult time its teams have shown great kindness and dedication to help extremely vulnerable people to get the food and supplies they need.”

All partnership working and deliveries are taking place safely, with social distancing rules being followed at all times.

District Commander for Calderdale, Chris Lawton, said: “Firefighters are ready and eager to support vulnerable people in need of these essential supplies during what are very difficult times.

"Firefighters are delivering the food parcels wearing personal protective equipment and will be making every effort to keep to social distancing rules. Give us a smile or a wave if you see us about, we know social isolation can take its toll, but West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is always here to support the communities of Calderdale and beyond.”

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Photo caption: Andy Greenwood, a firefighter from West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service, on his way to deliver food parcels to those in greatest need in Calderdale.