'Lockdown army' delivers hot meals to over-50s in West Sussex
A charity's teamed up with West Sussex County Council for the scheme
A charity's 'lockdown army' has been out to deliver meals, support and winter warmth to those aged 50 and over across West Sussex.
Age UK West Sussex, Brighton and Hove (WSBH) has teamed up with West Sussex County Council for the initative, which runs until the end of March.
It aims to ensure older people have nutritious food, a warm home and someone to turn to during the latest lockdown.
Funded by WSCC, homecooked frozen meals and desserts can be delivered directly to doorsteps for a suggested donation of just £2 (those on low incomes can receive these free of charge).
The meals can be delivered 2 - 3 times a week by Age UK WSBH's army of friendly volunteers.
Older people can also get information and advice over the phone on how to keep well and warm this winter.
Helen Rice, Chief Executive at Age UK WSBH, said:
"This latest lockdown is so tough on all of us, but particularly on older people, many of whom live alone.
"Supermarket delivery slots can be hard to come by, so to help we wanted to deliver pre-prepared, nutritional meals to doorsteps.
"We also want to make sure that people have energy advice, so that they can heat their homes efficiently and keep their bills low.
"With phone advice for anyone facing difficulties rounding off the package, we hope we can be there for people, whatever they're are facing. Lockdown is hard, but we hope to make life that little bit easier for older people locally."
The money that has been given to Age UK comes from the Government's Covid Winter Grant scheme, which is money provided to us by the Government to help support projects that look after the most vulnerable members of communities.
Anyone interested in receiving meals, energy advice or other support should call 01903 731 800 or email info@ageukwsbh.org.uk.