BRIDGING THE GAP

People from Ashton Hayes and surrounding villages are supporting each other over this very difficult time through a partnership between the Parish Council, the Community Shop, the Church and OPAL ,a local charity supporting older people and Timebank , another local charity.

Around 90 local volunteers are involved and over 100 people are receiving support of some kind . they are those who are having to stay in and cannot obtain shopping easily and people who often need emotional support , friendship and contact with people. The scheme provides an emergency shopping service that is very popular and provided on a one to one basis .It offers the opportunity for people to have regular telephone contact with others and it provides a weekly news and activity sheet that goes out widely. We also offer a dog walking service for those who have to stay home and can no longer exercise their do .The volunteers are undertaking all sorts of tasks and the degree of community spirit and feeling of togetherness that has been generated is very evident .People who didn`t know each other previously now do and those who have no option but to stay at home find some comfort in the contact they have from local volunteers. Well done to all!