Newcastle City Council and voluntary and community organisations across the city are joining forces to protect vulnerable and isolated residents during the coronavirus lockdown.
Through Citylife Line, council services are working alongside established charities, neighbourhood groups and volunteers to respond to rapidly increasing demand for practical support.
Many residents can rely on friends, relatives or neighbours for help while they remain at home, but others have no immediate support network. Some people are also unable to shop, collect prescriptions or access assistance online.
Citylife Line gives residents a clear route through which to request help. The council can then work with its partners to identify the most appropriate local response.
Voluntary organisations and neighbourhood groups possess invaluable knowledge of their communities. They understand the circumstances of local residents and are often best placed to deliver help safely and sensitively.
Our Labour councillors are supporting the response by sharing verified information, helping residents contact the right services and raising concerns where gaps emerge.
This cooperation is particularly important because public-health guidance and national arrangements continue to change. Residents must be able to find reliable advice without navigating several different organisations.
The pandemic is placing enormous pressure on council employees, NHS workers, charities, food banks and volunteers. Their collective response demonstrates Newcastle’s strong tradition of solidarity and public service.
We encourage residents to continue looking out for neighbours who may be isolated while following the latest public-health advice. Anyone who needs assistance should ask for help as early as possible.
Deputy Leader of Newcastle City Council, Cllr Joyce McCarty said:
“Our priority is to make sure every Newcastle resident can obtain practical help when they need it. Council staff, volunteers and community organisations are working under enormous pressure, and their cooperation is keeping vital support moving throughout our city.”