A COMMUNITY has pulled together to launch an emergency foodbank to help those who are struggling during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Carlisle COVID-19 Community Help Group, set up by a group of Labour councillors and charity professionals, was originally set up to support those unable to leave their homes with day-to-day tasks such as collecting shopping and medication.

From there – while continuing to provide those tasks – it has progressed to supporting Carlisle Foodbank in its efforts to feed the most vulnerable in society.

However, the group has now set up their very own emergency foodbank for people who are struggling financially.

Running out of a base in Petteril Bank, volunteers are keen to stress that the service they are offering is aimed at supplementing the work of Carlisle Foodbank.

The group has set up a service which sees parcels of donated fresh and non-perishable food delivered to those in need, all while following social distancing guidance.

Referrals are made by councillors and officers of Carlisle City or Cumbria County councils, and are assessed on an individual basis.

“It became apparent there were increasing numbers of vulnerable people finding themselves in a vulnerable position,” explained Karen Lockney, Cumbria County Councillor for Denton Holme, who is involved with the foodbank.

“Their normal support methods aren’t there, so we need emergency support for people who fall into that category.

“A lot of local companies want to donate food, but we realised at Carlisle Foodbank demand was greater than the scheme could cope with.

“Within a week we set up the emergency food hub paid for by cash donations from across the county. People are being referred to us and we are helping them with emergency food parcels.”

Mrs Lockney was keen to get the message out that help was out there for those who needed it.

“My main concern is reaching people,” she explained.

“Letting people know there is help out there. For example, the other day someone saw us delivering food who was self-isolating and shouted help. We’ve now been able to help that person.”

Lisa Brown, Labour City Councillor for Denton Holme, who initially set up the group, added: “We are grateful for donations from Tesco, Iceland, Morrisons, Center Parcs and many others.

“A week ago this was just an idea, and now we have a fully functioning food hub, ready to respond within a day to referrals. It is amazing how many people have pulled together to support us and get this off the ground.”

Anyone who has a shielding letter; falls into a vulnerable group and is self-isolating; family/single parents who are self isolating, or anyone who has a low income due to Covid-19 can be referred to the hub for emergency help, assessed on a case by case basis.

Anyone falling into these groups can contact the Cumbria County Council Emergency Helpline on 0800 783 1966.

The Community Help Group also offers non-contact volunteer support for those without support who need basic help such as shopping, collecting prescriptions, or a phone chat for support. To contact the group, call 07394 546 877.