Star Neighbour: Who is supporting your community during the coronavirus outbreak and how you can help
Find out what your community is doing to support those affected by coronavirus and how you can help.
As the coronavirus outbreak continues, communities across the Black Country and Staffordshire have rallied together to support their neighbours in need.
Offers of help have poured in on social media amid fears for the frail and elderly, who are at greatest risk of serious illness from Covid-19.
We want to help spread the word about the support available in your area.
How to contact us:
Email: starneighbour@expressandstar.co.uk
Facebook message: @expressandstar
Twitter direct message: @expressandstar
Call: 01902 319598
Fill out the form at the bottom of this page
If any of the information below needs changing or removing please let us know
This page will be updated daily with details of the individuals, groups and businesses offering help across the region.
From neighbours helping with errands to organised Facebook groups and shops offering free delivery, we're here to help.
Get in touch via email, social media or the online form at the bottom of this page and we will add your information to the listings below.
In line with groups on Facebook, we're also providing forms that you can cut out, fill in and pop through the letterbox of elderly neighbours.
It allows you to offer your help to run errands or simply be a friendly voice at the end of the phone.
Scroll down to see what's happening in your area. This page will be regularly updated.
Wolverhampton
Wolverhampton Covid-19 Mutual Aid
More than 2,000 Facebook users have joined the Wolverhampton Covid-19 Mutual Aid group where people are posting all sorts of offers of help and pleas for supplies.
They range from people delivering care packages and providing blankets to sharing information about shops that still have essentials in stock.
Administrator Tom Moreton said: "One of the founding assumptions of this group is that we are naturally cooperative creatures. This has been vindicated by the amazing level of support this group has seen so far.
"The next step will be to organise volunteers locally. We're thinking carefully about the best way to this, and will have more to share soon."
Baked in Tettenhall
Baked in Tettenhall has started a delivery service to make sure their customers are not missing out.
Staff there have also implemented extra hand washing and sanitising of touch points as part of the daily routine and said they are avoiding hand contact with food wherever possible.
One of the owners, Catherine Wyer, said: “We’re hoping to start delivering straight away.
“A lot of our customers are elderly.
“We’ll be deciding case-by-case whether it’s free delivery or a minimum spend depending on how far away the house is.”
She said it was important to help those in need as well as keeping business going.
The Crown, Albrighton
The Crown in Albrighton is collecting donations of items which are being divided into boxes and delivered to people who are self-isolating.
Toilet roll, fresh milk, biscuits and tinned goods are among items already donated to the pub.
Lee Maddox, manager of the pub, said since Friday about 40 boxes of items have been donated.
He said: “We started it when people began to isolate, it was a way of providing for people in the village who can’t get outside, especially as the shops are running low.
“With the help of the local community, the first responders will be delivering the items to people in need. We had a lot more donated than we thought we would.”
Big Venture Centre
The Big Venture Centre on Chesterton Road is offering free packed lunches for local families on free school meals in the event schools should close.
Gifts of Kindness
Gifts of Kindness, based in Bushbury, is collecting essentials to drop off to people who are struggling in the area.
They have teamed up with Bushbury Buddies, a service for socially isolated people, to help hand out items.
Amanda Newell, who runs the group, said: "We were already collecting toiletries for care homes and Bushbury Buddies, who visit the elderly, asked us for help.
"I didn't have any toiletries at that time and we made a request on Facebook and managed to help them.
"My friends have got in touch and we've got another box of items to hand out – our main focus is the over 60s.
"Because Bushbury Buddies have asked us to help, because they can't get items, they need other items.
"So we've got packets of pasta, porridge pots, because they will be helpful if they are self-isolating.
"We're just trying to help out."
Anyone able to donate toiletries, tinned soup or toilet paper can contact Gifts of Kindness by visiting Facebook and searching the name of the group or click here.
Churches offer support
The St. John Henry Newman Cluster of Catholic Parishes covering East Park, Wolverhampton, Bilston, Darlaston and Willenhall are offering support.
Parishioners have volunteered to do errands or basic shopping for anyone who is socially distancing themselves or needing to isolate and don’t have family etc that can help.
Fr. Craig Fullard said: "We’re happy to just keep in touch with people as well with telephoning them regularly.
If you or someone you know needs some assistance then get in touch on 01902 452841. (This relates to the East Park, Bilston, Darlaston & Willenhall area in particular).
Sikh support groups
Sikh groups across the West Midlands have offered a range of services to help the most vulnerable during the pandemic.
The Sikh Helpline has released a range of contact numbers for people or groups who can help – with services ranging from delivering food parcels to collecting prescriptions.
Midlands Langar Seva Society offer food parcels, prescription pick ups and a support service by phone and can be contacted on 07860 109551 or 07828 863681
Khalsa Aid offer free food rations for the vulnerable and elderly, plus assistance for any registered community groups, and can be contacted at 07487270969
Gurdwara Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji West Bromwich offer support and daily essentials to elderly and vulnerable people and can be contacted at 07772 222181, 07534 701536, 07429 394435 or 07383982243
Sikh Helpline offer a support service by phone and can be contacted on 07999 004363 or 0845 644 4363
Wolverhampton Jet Singh Trust offer support and food deliveries to vulnerable people and can be contacted at 07811 130778
Shere Punjab offer support and daily essentials to elderly and vulnerable people and can be contacted at 07513 999919
For more information on Sikh Helpline and the services it provides, go to sikhhelpline.com.
Moreton Arms pub
Staff at the Moreton Arms pub on Stafford Road, Wolverhampton, has called on anyone in the area to get in touch if they can help.
A series of measures have taken placed to keep the pub running – with tables and menus sanitised throughout the day.
A statement said: "If anyone in the community needs anything that we can help with please just let us know.
"There is always someone here till late at night so please don’t struggle alone."
Wolverhampton star neighbour
Zee Russell can help people in Wolverhampton including support delivering medication.
Search zeesterussell on Facebook or call 07584 427882 or email zee.russell@wolverhampton.gov.uk.
GM Home Discounts, Wombourne
Manni Massey from GM Home Discounts in Wombourne is giving free hand gel to the elderly and vulnerable in the village and is delivering goods for free to those unable to leave the house.
Contact GM Discounts or Manni Massey on Facebook.
Appeal for Compton star neighbour
We've had an appeal for people or a group to come forward to help elderly residents in Compton. Can anyone who can offer support contact the Express & Star using the details above.
Kingsway Barbers
Kingsway Barbers, on Newbolds Road in Wolverhampton, will open on March 22 on an appointment basis strictly for elderly and vulnerable people.
They have put the measures in place for people who would prefer to visit the barbers when it's quieter – rather than a crowded shop.
Appointments will be 20 minutes apart – with the shop sterilised in between each customer for safety.
Call 07508695186 to book an appointment.
Kirk's Garage
Kirk's Garage, based on Compton Road in Wolverhampton, is offering a free basic service for cars used by the over 70s.
Relatives of people aged over 70 can call the garage on 01902 423628 or send them a message on Facebook.
Heath Park School pupils
Pupils at Heath Park School, in Wolverhampton, created cards for the residents of local care homes as they were worried about them being alone during the pandemic.
They have also been busy making cards for key workers who are busy working and helping others during the tough period.
A Cut In Time
Wolverhampton-based hair salon, A Cut In Time, has aprons, gloves and caps they want to donate to anyone in care work.
They can pop in to the Raynor Road salon, or call 01902 732777.
Household collections and deliveries
Mark Spittle, of Cannock Road, Westcroft, if offering help collecting, delivering, shopping and fetching prescriptions to household chores
People can call 07855 492527 or email mspittle@live.co.uk
Support in the Penn area
Pravin Kharwadkar, of Squirrel Walk, has pledged their support.
"I would like to help anyone in Penn, Wolverhampton. Anyone who needs help because of self-isolation, health issues. I want to help the vulnerable and elderly neighbours by collecting medication, milk and bread and other items," they said in a message to the Express & Star.
"Happy to pick up essential shopping and prescriptions, post mail, pick up urgent supplies, able to run errands, and provide a friendly phone for anyone in self-isolation."
Call 07886 841082 or by emailing pkharwadkar@yahoo.com
Westcroft star neighbour
Mark Spittle, from Westcroft in Wolverhampton, is offering to pick up shopping and collect prescriptions – and carry out other chores.
Contact him on 07855492527
Warstones star neighbour
Clair Colbourne, who lives in the Warstones area of Wolverhampton, can collect and deliver essentials to those in need in the area – and for the surrounding areas.
Email clair211@gmail.com
WV Active classes
WV Active, which runs leisure centres across Wolverhampton, has been streaming live videos of different workouts people can do.
Staff have put it together to ensure people in the city keep moving whilst social distancing and home working measures are in place.
To take part, visit www.wvactive.com/activities/home-workouts.html
Compton and Finchfield star neighbour
Carl Bates is coordinating help and support for elderly and vulnerable residents in the Compton and Finchfield area. He has already offered to help residents living in Coven.
He can collect or deliver essentials to anyone who needs them and is vulnerable or elderly. The special needs teacher said he wanted to do “something” to help people out during the pandemic.
Call Carl on 07989 474824 or email carlbates1979@gmail.com.
Young Tettenhall star neighbour
Twelve-year-old Emily Selby, from Tettenhall, in Wolverhampton, has set up the Redhouse Network to keep residents in the village in touch with each other, share information and advice.
She has set up a Facebook page and group, as well as an email address. On Sunday, she was out delivering 80 newsletters in the local area.
To contact Emily, email redhousenet@yahoo.com or emilyselby@yahoo.co.uk. To find the Facebook page, search for 'Redhouse Network'.
Tettenhall Facebook Group
Twelve-year-old Emily Selby, from Tettenhall, in Wolverhampton, has set up the Redhouse Network to keep residents in the village in touch with each other, share information and advice.
She has set up a Facebook page and group, as well as an email address. On Sunday, she was out delivering 80 newsletters in the local area.
To contact Emily, email redhousenet@yahoo.com or emilyselby@yahoo.co.uk. To find the Facebook page, search for ‘Redhouse Network’.
Wolverhampton star neighbour
Mohammed Khan, from Wolverhampton, is offering to deliver food and fetch medicines for elderly and vulnerable people in their homes.
To contact Mohammed, call him on 07538244666 or email molhan_91@yahoo.com.
Coseley star neighbour
Marie is keen to help people with any home deliveries they need doing during the coronavirus pandemic.
She works from home and would like to help residents living in the Coseley, Bradley and Bilston areas.
Call Marie on 07914 396503.
Lotus Sanctuary
Lotus Sanctuary are providing critical support to homeless women and their children across the Black Country during Covid-19.
Managing director, Gurpaal Judge, said: "The current situation is a particularly dangerous one for the vulnerable women our service supports. Women still without housing or living at home with a domestic violence perpetrator are very much at increased risk now.”
For more information, call 0800 0096623 or email: info@lotussanctuary.co.uk.
Pak Continental Supermarket
Pak Continental Supermarket, in Hunter Street, Wolverhampton, is distributing free face masks and gloves to all their customers.
The store has also donated 8,000 masks and 100 boxes of gloves to New Cross Hospital, in the city.
School of Coding
Wolverhampton-based School of Coding is offering free e-sessions for children wanting to learn code from home.
The company has rolled out free coding sessions and includes basic coding, which involves learning how to code through fun, playable games, all the way up to GCSE computer science.
The sessions run five times a day, every day – and will continue until schools in the country re-open.
To enrol your child onto a free coding course, visit www.schoolofcodinguk.com or email info@schoolofcoding.co.uk.
Wednesfield star neighbour
Wednesfield resident Cathy Haynes is offering to help residents in the area who are self-isolating or stuck indoors.
Cathy, who lives in the Woodend area, says she can help with shopping, collect prescriptions and take dogs for walks.
To contact Cathy, call 07986 669713 or email cathyhaynes15@gmail.com.
Sunrise Tettenhall
A Wolverhampton care home is calling on people in the community to help them help others during the coronavirus outbreak.
Sunrise, based in Tettenhall, is asking for volunteers to help with assisting with residents' meals and drinks, supporting residents to FaceTime loved ones, accompanying them for walks in the garden, and supporting housekeeping, laundry and kitchen staff.
General manager, Heather James, said: "Like the NHS, we are looking for volunteers to lend a hand so that we can continue providing the best possible care and support to residents in our homes, as well as people living in the surrounding areas. It’s important we all come together - whether it's by volunteering for the NHS, or with a social care provider – we can all make a huge difference."
To help with volunteering, call 01902 774100.
Helping Hand Project
A new project has been launched in Wolverhampton which aims to connect volunteer groups with vulnerable people.
Elderly or those in self-isolation can text the word "hand" to 07723496916 to register – with people sent a growing list of support services.
The Helping Hand Project started in Newcastle but has now been rolled-out into the city.
Jonathon Valentine, who came up with the idea, said: "This started as a local project to help the older and more vulnerable people in Newcastle but Covid-19 has turned the initiative into a far more urgent and vital service.
"I am sure this is just one of many examples of how people and businesses in data and technology are applying their expertise to help people in need at this extraordinary time."
Serenity Counselling
A counselling service in Wolverhampton has launched a free, seven days a week, service for vulnerable people – or anyone stock at home.
Serenity Counselling, which has moved to phone calls and Zoom video link-up due to coronavirus, is offering the service to improve people's mental health.
People who are lonely can also use the service, if they need to, by submitting their number via www.serenitycounselling.net
Merridale star neighbour
A member of the counselling team will call people back within 24 hours.
Pam Smith, who lives in Merridale in Wolverhampton, is able to help vulnerable people in Compton and in her own area.
She is able to help out for a few hours – a couple in the afternoon or in the morning – and is happy to help.
Email pamsmith71@hotmail.co.uk
Citizens Advice Wolverhampton
Citizens Advice in Wolverhampton, which has suspended its face-to-face service, is still running a helpline to those most in need.
Craig Alford, chief officer of Citizens Advice Wolverhampton, said: "Citizens Advice is here to give people the knowledge and confidence they need to find their way forward in these difficult times.
"We’ll continue to offer advice over the telephone on our advice-line. People looking for advice can also chat to an advisor online at the Citizens Advice website."
People can receive general advice by calling 03444 111 444 Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm.
For an urgent crisis, text 07525 844 112 or email enquiries@wolverhamptoncitizensadvice
For debt issues, text 07850 209 529 or email debtadvice@wolverhamptoncitizensadvice.com
For web chat issues visit citizensadvicewolverhampton.org.uk/wolvescab-webchat/
Body Shop At Home
Staff who work for the Body Shop At Home have been donating stock to staff working at New Cross Hospital.
The team of 65 have supplied staff working on intensive care, A&E, outpatients and heart and lung departments with hand creams.
Rebecca Fisher, senior area manager, said: "I have got a team of 65 men and women and we have all pulled together to get donations to ensure the NHS staff's hands are well looked after by shipping hand creams in all scents by the bucket load to ensure their hands are kept soft and supple with all the hand washing and hand santising they are having to do.
"I have seen many hands that were bleeding, chapped and incredibly sore but we are helping show our appreciation from across the city to help the hands that help us."
Appeal for PPE equipment
Wolverhampton Council is appealing to businesses in the city to donate spare personal protective equipment (PPE) to help frontline social workers and people working in service users' homes, care homes and children's units safe.
They need fluid repellent disposable gowns, nitrile non-sterile gloves, plastic apron, eyewear and face protection, FFP2 and FFP3 masks and IIR surgical masks.
For businesses wishing to donate items, email with full details of any PPE which may be available, to covid19procurement@wolverhampton.gov.uk.
Pennfields and Merridale COVID Action Group
A Facebook group has been set up for residents in the Pennfields and Merridale area of Wolverhampton to offer help for the community, and also post pleas for help.
The Pennfields & Merridale COVID Action Group are a group of residents offering help to others including getting deliveries from local shops, supermarkets and food banks. They can also run errands and provide a friendly voice on the end of the phone.
To contact them, call 01902 249249, What's App message on 07842 879011 or email wolvesmutualaid.cv19@gmail.com.
Wolverhampton star neighbour
Wolverhampton teacher Jon Perry, 36, is keen to help other residents who are stuck in their homes.
As a key worker, he works designated days – but is free to help Thursday to Sunday for the foreseeable future.
He can drive and cycle locally to help other residents with shopping etc. To contact Jon, call 07715 857062.
West Midlands Fire Service
Non-operational staff from across West Midlands Fire Service have started to deliver essential care packages to vulnerable people.
Hundreds of staff from across the organisation have volunteered to deliver vital services to those who are currently ‘shielded’ because of Covid-19, or otherwise vulnerable or isolated.
Penn Tandoori
Penn Tandoori, based on Penn Road, Wolverhampton, has launched a special delivery service in order to help those who can't get out of the house.
The delivery service is subject to availability – and collections are also available with a 20 per cent discount.
A spokesman said: "We hope by doing this, it will not only help those who may be isolated, but it will also support local business, suppliers and our community."
For more information, call 01902 333319.
Jaikara – Wolves Interfaith Aid
Jaikara – Wolves Interfaith Aid has launched a helpline to help others during the Covid-19 pandemic.
For any individuals or families feeling at the point of crisis, they have put together an emergency team of professionals to offer advice and support on a new dedicated helpline.
They can take shopping requests, provide cooked meals for vulnerable people, offer support to domestic violence victims and those struggling with their mental health, and be there for others to have a chat to.
To contact them, call 07378 766776, or email crisisaid@jaikara.org.uk.
Wolverhampton star neighbour
A kind student from Wolverhampton has been caring for vulnerable people in her community.
Halesowen College business student Georgia Crowe has been delivering food care packages to the elderly and those self-isolating during the coronavirus crisis.
Georgia, aged 19, is making the deliveries through Sainsbury’s where she also has a part time job at the supermarket's store in Wombourne.
She also runs their social media pages and has completed a two week work experience placement at Sainsbury’s head office as part of her studies.
Gill James, from Halesowen College, said: “Georgia has excelled over the last few weeks and has been a huge support to her community and colleagues. We are also very proud of her work – well done Georgia.”
Excel Church foodbank
Excel Church in Bilston is running a foodbank with the help of around 12 volunteers.
The volunteers are helping vulnerable residents by delivering supplies in Bilston, Ettingshall and surrounding areas.
Contact John Raj at the foodbank on 01902 498781 or email Councillor Beverley Momenabadi at beverley.momenabadi@wolverhampton.gov.uk
Beacon Centre
We have launched the Beacon Centre Family Fun Pack, which is ideal for those looking to keep little ones entertained.
It contains six exciting activities including a family quiz, a logo design competition and wordsearch.
You can download it for a suggested donation of £3 which will go towards helping Beacon which is providing vital care for some of the most vulnerable people in our community during the Coronavirus pandemic.
It can be downloaded via this link: www.beaconvision.org/beacon-family-fun-pack
Wolverhampton star neighbour
Ben Hough is available to go shopping, collect prescriptions of walk dogs in the Tettenhall/Compton/Finchfield areas.
Work means that he is only available Friday- Sunday.
He can be contacted on 07770709791.
Dudley and Wyre Forest
Gornal coronavirus support network
The Gornal Coronavirus Support Network group has been set up for people to post offers of help across Gornal.
Castle Cars taxis
Castle Cars taxis, based in Dudley, is offering to support the community.
Spokesman Ohmair Qayyum said: "We are willing to do shopping pickups and drops for anyone self isolating or in quarantine and will do this for free to anyone over 65.
"Just call our normal phone lines and mention the above."
Kingswinford star neighbour
Star neighbour Paul Oakley is available to support those with Covid-19 issues in anyway possible and has a car, but doesn't use Facebook.
Paul can be contacted on 07932 697791.
Tipton star neighbour
Stacie Farrington is happy to help pick up essentials, shopping and prescriptions for those in need.
Stacie can be contacted on 07510 860534.
Robby's Fine Cuisine
An Indian restaurant in Kingswinford is offering free meals to elderly people and people in self-isolation.
The free meals from Robby's Fine Cuisine, in Townsend Place, includes a starter, a main course and a rice.
The restaurant has asked people to phone up and speak to the manager before a relative or friend can collect the meal.
To contact the restaurant, call 01384273287 or visit www.robbys.uk.com.
Black Country T Shirts
Black Country T Shirts, based on Castle Street in Dudley, is offering free postage on each order – helping people to get their items.
The store is also a collection point for Leslie's Care Packages, which collects items for the homeless, vunerable and anyone in need.
Black Country Radio
Black Country Radio has launched a community hotline to support residents during the pandemic.
The hotline will give individuals and companies the chance to offer up their services to help the most vulnerable in the community, while residents will be encouraged to contact the number if they are feeling isolated and need support from others.
People can call 01384 465375.
Kidderminster Facebook support group
A Facebook page has been launched to help people living in Kidderminster and the surrounding community.
The Coronavirus Community Support – Kidderminster & Surrounding Areas page was launched on March 15 and now has nearly 1,800 members.
The page allows people to ask for help, or offer their support in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
Balti Bazaar
Restaurant Balti Bazaar, based in Lye, Stourbridge, is offering free meals – including a starter, main course and rice – to elderly residents who are self-isolating. Relatives/friends can pick up the meal, or the restaurant will deliver if they have a driver available.
A statement on their Facebook page said: "In light of the effects of the coronavirus, our thoughts are particularly with the elderly and vulnerable who may have to self-isolate to take precautions.
"We would like to offer a free meal to any elderly person who is self-isolating. We only ask that they ring us up, speak to our manager to place their order and ask their relative/friend to come and pick up the meal. We will be happy to deliver if we have a driver available.
"Please note, the meal will include, starter, main course and a rice. Together we can overcome this. Unity and compassion." Call 01384 353800 for more information.
Facebook support group
A Facebook page has been launched to help people living in the Black Country.
The Share To Those In Need page was launched on March 14 and now has more than 1,000 members. The page allows people to ask for help, or offer their support in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
Paramedic
A West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedic, who lives in Netherton, has seven days off – and is using his time to help the vulnerable.
Luke Adams is offering to help the vulnerable and sick who can't access shops – or needs an errand running.
He can be reached on 07432515169
Megs Shop
Megs Shop, off the Straits, in Lower Gornal, is now offering a home delivery service for those struggling to get out to the shops.
The shop will prioritise the elderly and vulnerable community on the Straits estate. Products include milk, bread, cobs, cold meats, canned foods, animal food, pop, sweets and a variety of every day essentials.
To make an order, call 07563 118340.
Coseley star neighbour
Sarah Brookshaw, of Coseley, is offering to help people in her community.
This includes shopping and running general errands. To contact her, call 07583076440 or email sarahbrookshaw@icloud.com.
Holy Trinity School
Kind staff and students at a Kidderminster school have donated safety goggles, aprons, gloves and masks to staff at their local hospital.
Holy Trinity School and Sixth Form Centre made the donation to hard working staff on the ICU unit at Worcester Hospital.
Donated by the Science Department, the school also handed over several rainbow pictures created by their students.
Headteacher Pamela Leek-Wright said: “'As soon as we were made aware that hospitals were reaching out to schools for safety equipment, we had to respond.
“It seems such a small gesture, but anything that will help support the incredible service that our NHS is providing, we are happy to do. I know that we will not be the only school to have done this and it makes me proud to be part of the teaching profession.”
Greenline Coaches
A coach company based in Stourbridge is currently helping deliver food shopping orders to people in the area.
Drivers at family-run Greenline Coaches are now helping at Asda to ensure everyone receives their food.
Andy Phillips, director of the Stourbridge-based business, said: "Due to the temporary closure, following Government guidelines, we've decided to try and do their contribution to keep the country moving.
"We couldn't sit at home whilst this situation was going on.
"We felt that as a family firm we wanted to do something that would help impact people's lives during this dreadful period."
Mortgage Advice Bureau in Dudley
A Dudley-based mortgage advisor has launched a dedicated mortgage information support service to help homeowners who are worried about their finances as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
The free support service has been set up to answer any queries or worries people may have about paying their mortgage, and to guide them back to financial security.
Qualified mortgage adviser Tom Hewitt can offer free, impartial advice. Mortgage Advice Bureau in Dudley has also created an online resource of frequently asked questions on the topic – which will be updated daily as more queries are raised.
To contact Tom, call 07709 452496 or email tom.hewitt@mab.org.uk.
Bells Supermarkets, Kidderminster
Bells Supermarkets, based in Kidderminster, is offering free grocery delivery service to the vulnerable and elderly from their two stores during the Covid-19 crisis.
The stores have already carried out more than 300 deliveries in the town and are keen to help as many people in the community as possible.
It is a minimum order of £15 and excludes bills, lottery, stamps and tobacco. The stores are Bells Nisa of Offmore and Bells Nisa of Habberley.
Jordha Sanghera, director at Bells Supermarkets, said: "This is a challenging time for all our communities not least the elderly and vulnerable and we know some of you are reluctant to leave your homes.
"In special circumstances when required, we will help you with your shop and drop you back off home safely."
If you place the order between 9am and 3pm, they can get the order to you the same day before 8pm. To place orders, call 01562 823577.
Home Bargains, Merry Hill
A store manager at Home Bargains in Merry Hill has donated 100 Easter eggs to Russells Hall Hospital.
John Hill paid for the 100 eggs to be donated to wards B1 and B2 at the Dudley-based hospital.
Kingswinford star neighbour
Kingswinford resident Lorrainne Silcox wants to help vulnerable residents in the area.
She has her own transport and can help with picking up shopping and prescriptions.
To contact Lorrainne, email lsilcox@btinternet.com.
Pinder & Moore Opticians
An independent opticians in Kingswinford has been extending its services to support vulnerable people in the community.
Team members at Pinder & Moore Opticians, on Market Street, are delivering spectacles to those in need, including older members of the community and high-risk patients, who are unable to collect in-store.
The practice is also donating 10 per cent of any patient purchase to their colleagues in the NHS.
Practice partner and Optometrist Amit Sharma said: “The wellbeing of our patients is our highest priority, so these measures are about ensuring the health of those in local area is maintained during this period of uncertainty. We hope by extending our services beyond our normal capacity will allow our patients to follow government guidelines of staying at home, whilst retaining peace of mind in their eye health."
For more information, call the practice on 01384 274 426.
Shop on Wheels Wyre Forest
A Facebook page has been launched to help residents who are isolating or NHS frontline staff with their shopping in Wyre Forest.
The Shop on Wheels Wyre Forest Facebook page is gathering supplies to provide food parcels for those who need them in the district.
They are delivering to NHS frontline staff, those who are self-isolating with no means of getting shopping, vulnerable and isolating due to health, or those who are vulnerable and cannot get online shopping deliveries.
To contact them, email foodparcels@ybdwes.co.uk.
Mary Stevens Hospice
Mary Stevens Hospice in Stourbridge has launched a new telephone support service during the coronavirus pandemic.
The advice and support line will be available seven days a week, between 8am and 4pm, and operated by members of the hospice team.
Claire Towns, the hospice's chief executive officer, said: "In direct response to the challenge our community is facing amidst the Covid-19 pandemic we have set up a telephone and online advice service for members of the public, carers and care home staff to access during these unprecedented times.
"This service aims to provide timely, practical and compassionate support for anyone who needs help or guidance with practical advice, advance care planning, emotional and spiritual care, support in the last days and hours of life and clinician advice where required.
"We are committed to serving our community at their time of need and aware that many people will require additional guidance, especially when caring for people approaching the end of life.”
To contact the hub please call 01384-445417 or by emailing supporthub@marystevenshospice.co.uk.
Here2Help Wyre Forest
The leader of Worcestershire County Council has thanked residents – including those in Wyre Forest – for coming together and helping ensure people stay safe and well.
The council's Here2Help community action campaign has seen more than 1,200 volunteers register since its launch four weeks ago.
Councillor Simon Geraghty said: “More than ever before this is a time when Worcestershire has really come together to help each other through this situation and I am hearing so many examples of this across our county.
"An enormous amount of work is already being put in by people all over the county and I want to thank all who are keeping our county going through these extraordinary times. Worcestershire's Here2Help service has already responded to over 1,000 residents in need so please do contact us if you need assistance – we are here to help."
Beacon Centre
We have launched the Beacon Centre Family Fun Pack, which is ideal for those looking to keep little ones entertained.
It contains six exciting activities including a family quiz, a logo design competition and wordsearch.
You can download it for a suggested donation of £3 which will go towards helping Beacon which is providing vital care for some of the most vulnerable people in our community during the Coronavirus pandemic.
It can be downloaded via this link: www.beaconvision.org/beacon-family-fun-pack
Sandwell
Essential local deliveries
Jordan Goodridge, who lives in the Oldbury/Blackheath area, is offering to deliver essentials to elderly and vulnerable people in her area.
She can be contacted at jordangoodridge26@gmail.com
Cradley Heath star neighbour
Kieran Rickards is volunteering in Old Hill, Cradley Heath.
He has offered to collect shopping and prescriptions for the elderly.
Call 07384 686321.
West Bromwich star neighbour
Rafal Wawrzyniak is volunteering his services for people in the Hill Top area of West Bromwich.
Any help with shopping and deliveries is offered.
Call 07463 949244.
Appeal for Sandwell star neighbour
The Leader of Sandwell Council has issued an appeal for help to support those in the borough during the coronavirus pandemic.
Councillor Yvonne Davies shared on Twitter: "We need your help, if you are able to volunteer goods or services please let us know.
"Anything you are able to offer to help us during this crisis please get in touch 0121 569 2266."
Volunteer to help ease loneliness
Samantha in the the Kenrick Park, area of West Bromwich is offering help with small items of shopping or other errands along with wellbeing checks.
People can email greenpea1315@gmail.com
Sandwell Council staff
Sandwell Council staff are mobilising to help deliver support and assistance to vulnerable people hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic.
And the council is also calling on businesses or residents who can safely help to get in touch, with a number already having offered support.
Local businesses and residents are being encouraged to join the council and offer any assistance they can in a safe way and in line with new government guidelines announced on Monday.
Businesses can visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/coronavirusdonate, while residents can register online by visiting www.scvo.info/can-you-help.
Black Country Tyres
Black Country Tyres and Exhausts, which is based in Tipton, is offering to fix punctures for NHS workers free of charge.
Anyone who works for the NHS who has a tyre puncture is asked to drop their car off at the garage, off Sedgley Road East. For more information, call 0121 557 8471.
Cradley Heath star neighbour
Cradley Heath resident Sean Gilde has a car and is offering to help with deliveries of shopping or any other errands.
To contact Sean, call 07931 781737.
Wednesbury support group
A coronavirus support group has been set up in Wednesbury to help those self-isolating or high-risk residents.
Wednesbury Coronavirus Support Group has been set up by a group of residents who say they are coming together during a period of difficult to help others.
The group is offering to help with everyday tasks such as running errands, walking dogs, collecting prescriptions or just being a friendly voice on the end of the phone.
For more information, search for 'Wednesbury Coronavirus Support Group' on Facebook.
Residents can also call 07597 142161 or 07925 150323, between 9am and 5pm, or email wednesburyassist@outlook.com.
J P M Designs
Wednesbury resident James Morris has been uploading free colouring designs for children, and adults alike, to save, print and colour on his Facebook page.
James said: "I know that during these difficult times that people will be looking for things to do. I thought it would be great if this could be shared with as many people as I could to give them something to occupy themselves."
To find the colouring designs, search for 'J P M Designs' on Facebook.
Fourways Bar and Grill
Fourways Bar and Grill in Rowley Regis has been donating hundreds of meals to staff working at hospitals across the region.
The staff have been delivering to Russells Hall Hospital, Rowley Regis Hospital, Birmingham Children's Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
Any other hospital that need meals, can call Amrik on 07951 512299.
Oldbury star neighbour
Emma Turner, who lives in Oldbury, has offered to help pick up shopping – and help out with other tasks.
She can be contacted by phone on 07535472061 or by email at emma.turner@signet.co.uk
West Bromwich Food Bank
The West Bromwich Food Bank, located at West Bromwich Community Church in Victoria Street, is appealing for help to continue to meet the increasing demands being placed on them for food.
The food bank is asking for donations of cereal, soup, beans, tinned vegetables, tinned meat, fish, milk, rice pudding, pasta, rice, tinned fruit, coffee and tea.
The food bank is open Monday to Friday, between 12pm and 1.30pm, and items can be dropped off between those times.
For more information on the food bank contact the organisers via email on keith@elimwestbrom.com.
Choice Cars UK Ltd
Choice Cars UK Ltd, based in Wednesbury, has been out helping NHS staff get to their shifts in hospital.
The company is transport staff to work, medication to patients and equipment to various wards.
A statement posted on their Facebook page, said: “Yes I know we have children and families at home and we love them. We are doing this because in them hospital’s loved ones also have their families being treated.
"If we don’t do what we are doing someone else’s family member won’t get the treatment they need due to us being selfish this is our community somebody’s neighbour working these jobs before and after this Covid-19 pandemic.
"The NHS has done enough for us, time to pay it back.”
PC Jaymie Rogers
A thoughtful West Midlands Police officer has donated pamper gifts to nursing staff at Birmingham City Hospital.
PC Jaymie Rogers managed to secure 40 luxury soaps from the Lush store for free and decided to reward colleagues working in the NHS.
She is a key member of West Midlands Police Veteran Peer Support Network which supports former armed forces servicemen and women whose lives have taken a turn for worse.
It was because of the relationship with the Cass Art shop, through work with the Network, that kind Jaymie became aware of the opportunity to secure soaps from the Lush store.
Fresh Fruit and Veg Delivery Sandwell
Fresh Fruit and Veg Delivery in Sandwell is offering free delivery to places across the Black Country and NHS discount.
The company is offering fresh fruit and vegetable hampers for £25. They can provide free delivery to places across Sandwell, Dudley, Wolverhampton and Walsall.
NHS discounts also apply to orders.
Search for 'Fresh Fruit and Veg Delivery Sandwell' on Facebook, or message 07890 197668 or 07817 234887 with your postcode and order.
Metsec Oldbury
Metsec in Oldbury has joined with Aldi in the town to donate 50 Easter eggs to children at Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust.
They also donated gloves, wipes and hand sanitizer for staff working at the hospitals.
Vitality CBD
A Birmingham-based cosmetic company is helping the fight against coronavirus by producing PPE equipment for pharmacists.
Vitality CBD has converted part of its manufacturing capacity to produce bio barriers to support pharmacists and retailers across the country that are continuing to be exposed to the virus, without proper protective equipment.
Nikhil Nathwani, Vitality CBD director, said: “We had an overwhelming directive from our customers that they urgently needed protective equipment, such as bio barriers, but lacked the capacity to produce it themselves.
"We therefore took the decision to switch our focus to producing barriers that can be produced and dispatched within 48 hours, to help keep these key workers safe."
The company is set to produce 3,000 Bio Barriers for pharmacies and independent shops across the country, with 1,000 having already been sent out for immediate distribution.
Salma Food Bank
Salma Food Bank based in Smethwick are delivering food parcels to families who are unable to access shops due to the current health crisis.
They can be contacted by calling 07767164246.
Retail BID Birmingham
Retail BID Birmingham has donated more than 1,500 Easter eggs to doctors, nurses and support staff at Birmingham Women's and Children's Foundation Trust.
City centre stores Debenhams and Selfridges have donated the treats as a morale boost for medics at the forefront of the fight against Covid-19.
John Lewis has also donated hundreds of items of cosmetics and hand creams for NHS workers, whose skin may be suffering from increase sanitary routines.
Louise McCathie, director of fundraising at Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospitals Charity, said: "I am in absolute awe of our amazing staff members, who are currently going beyond the call of duty to care for and protect some of the most vulnerable members of society. We are so thankful to the team at Retail BID Birmingham for organising this gift, and of course to Selfridges and Debenhams for donating the Easter eggs. They will give the NHS heroes at our hospitals just the boost they need."
Sandwell Community Caring Trust
Sandwell Community Caring Trust is appealing for help in getting hold of visors while they care for patients with dementia during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The trust's Hall Green Residential Care Home has 62 residents and staff are not able to get hold of any visors.
Delia Finch, who works for the trust, said: "We have 62 elderly residents and we are not able to get any visors. We are desperate to keep all our residents healthy – it is our duty to keep them safe because their loved ones are not able to visit."
To contact the home, call 0121 567 0021.
Mecca Oldbury
Employees at Mecca Oldbury have donated Easter eggs to the most in need in the local community.
So far, they have delivered more than 2,000 eggs that have been donated from clubs nationwide, with more to come.
The Easter eggs, which were meant for Mecca Bingo regulars, have now been offered to local charities and councils that are working alongside those most in need.
Those benefitting so far include Sandwell Council, who have used the eggs as part of their food parcels.
Matt Sutton, general manager at Mecca Oldbury, said: "We want to do all we can to help people in our local area during these uncertain times, and hope that receiving an Easter egg from us will bring a smile to their faces. The feedback from local charities we contacted has been amazing and we wish those that receive the Easter eggs a safe and enjoyable weekend at home.”
Walsall
Multi-lingual posters
A multi-lingual approach to advice on coronavirus and the current pandemic is being made available to the public.
Community integration group Walsall for All has collated together posters and documents regarding the spread of the virus in a number of different languages. These include details on what coronavirus is, how it can be caught, what the symptoms are and what to do if you have caught the virus.
The documents are available in Bengali, Easy Read (English), Hungarian, Polish, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian and Slovak. It has also shared World Health Organisation advice.
Pelsall star neighbour
David Robinson is offering help with any errands or groceries and drives a car.
He is contactable at davidrobinson1990@hotmail.co.uk.
Blakenall star neighbour
Sarah Battison is offering to pick up shopping, prescriptions or other essentials for those who are self-isolating or cannot fetch things themselves.
Contact Sarah at 07309738146 or sarahbattison4@gmail.com.
Walsall star neighbour
Steve Large has access to a vehicle and is happy to go to shops or provide lifts for any vulnerable or elderly neighbours in his area.
Steve can be contacted at stevenlarge2004@hotmail.co.uk 07796 386698.
Willenhall star neighbour
Councillor Adam Hicken, from New Invention in Willenhall, is able to help pick up prescriptions, deliveries and more.
He can be contacted at 07949 311432 or cllr.adam.hicken@walsall.gov.uk.
Willenhall star neighbour
Despina Zacharia, who lives in Willenhall, moved into the area last year – and wants to help the most vulnerable by collecting medication, milk and bread and other items.
You can reach her by email on cdzacharia@hotmail.com
Busill Jones Primary School
Busill Jones Primary School in Bloxwich, Walsall, have called on children to visit in colourful clothing to mark the last day of school for most pupils on Friday.
Students who wear bright clothes will receive an item of tinned or packeted food which can be given to a nearby food bank.
A spokeswoman said: "We would like to achieve something positive on Friday itself as our last normal day of operations.
"We would like children to come to school in colourful clothing in exchange for an item of tinned or packet food which can be distributed to the local food bank, a charity we fully support especially during this time."
Hotline Cars Streetly
A taxi company in Walsall is offering to pick up supplies for people in self-isolation.
Hotline Cars Streetly is helping those isolated by picking up supplies, medicines and shopping – and also have food parcels available for those self-isolated.
Hotline Cars Streetly can be reached on 0121 353 2121 or by emailing hotlinecarsltd@hotmail.co.uk.
Willenhall star neighbour
Wilms Chapman wants to help support individuals and families affected by the coronavirus.
Wilms works full-time but can offer support on evenings and weekends.
Wilms is able to run errands, pick up essential shopping and prescriptions, and also is happy to walk dogs if needed.
You can contact Wilms by calling 07841 478117 or emailing wilms33@msn.com.
Walsall star neighbour
Mish Rahman is helping to support residents living in Aldridge, Short Heath and Willenhall.
He can pick up shopping, post mail, pick up urgent supplies and provide a friendly phone for anyone in self-isolation.
To contact Mish, call 07882 169720 or email misba70@hotmail.co.uk.
Walsall Community Transport
From Monday, March 23, Walsall Community Transport are providing a home delivery shopping service for the older and vulnerable residents of the town. They are also taking donations for Kindness Packs – which will include magazines, puzzle books, biscuits, chocolate, wool and more.
Users of the service are also now able to access the bus with their pass before 9.30am. For more information, call 01922 685555.
Walsall star neighbour
Ross Geal, from Victoria Terrace in Walsall, said he is willing to help in any way possible – from shopping for vulnerable people to walking dogs.
He can help with lifting and carrying and has a bicycle to get around – and uses a mask and gloves to protect himself.
People can reach Ross by calling 07554366398 or emailing truthferretfilms@gmail.com
Walsall star neighbour
Colette Murtagh, from The Chuckery in Walsall, has offered to help people in the area who are self isolating.
She will help with shopping or errands and won't take money until the food or items are delivered.
Colette is willing to visit supermarkets and pharmacies with no charge for deliveries.
People can reach her on 07718591971 or by emailing colette.murtagh@hotmail.co.uk
Walsall star neighbour
Martyn Spencer, who lives in the Bloxwich area, has offered to help people in the area if they need shopping or tablets.
He can be reached by calling 07756966784 or emailing martyn.spencer2000@gmail.com
Walsall star neighbour
Walsall resident Helen Phipps is offering to pick up shopping and prescriptions for residents who are stuck in their homes.
She will also be on the end of the phone for a friendly chat for anyone who needs it. To contact Helen, call 07588 535488.
Combat COVID support group
More than 60 teenagers from Queen Mary's Grammar School, in Walsall, have set up a group called Combat COVID to provide families in isolation with entertainment.
The group, made up of youngsters aged between 15 and 18, is sharing their content to social media.
The content varies from cooking to exercise and motivational quotes. To follow the group, search for their name on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
Walsall star neighbour
Helen Phipps, from The Crescent, in Walsall, is offering to pick up shopping and prescriptions for people in her area.
She is also available for anyone wanting a chat. To contact Helen, call 07588535488.
Moghul Palace
A Pelsall restaurant is hosting online cooking tutorials – to help residents cook their food during self-isolation.
Moghul Palace is posting recipes and cooking classes on their Facebook page.
In a statement, they said: "We all know your all missing the food and need some spice in your life – a new fun activity to do with the family.
"Our chefs at Moghul Palace have come up with a brilliant idea of teaching you how to cook like them, but don't tell anyone our secret."
The first in their series including a how to make onion bhajis.
Search for 'Moghul Palace' on Facebook.
Willenhall star neighbour
Rosalind Aulton, who lives in the Portobello area of Willenhall, wants to offer her assistance to others during the pandemic.
She works part-time, but has a car and is able to run errands and do shopping.
Contact Rosalind by calling 07591 941508.
Walsall star neighbour
Walsall resident Christine Evans wants to help other residents in the town while she still can.
Christine lives in Pelsall, but is also willing to help others who live in Pelsall, Shelfield and Bloxwich – but will go further afield if someone is in need.
She can help with collecting shopping and prescriptions.
To contact Christine, call either 01922 440553 or 07852 596189, or email evanschris@sky.com.
Walsall Outreach
Walsall Outreach has been providing hot meals to the homeless and those in need in the borough for more than five years.
During the coronavirus pandemic, they have now started a delivery service of free grocery packs to the most vulnerable in Walsall.
The organisation has already received more than 30 referrals from Walsall Council, Age Concern and Age Matters – for families with children, elderly people, people who have lost their jobs, NHS workers and people with disabilities.
Georgio's Veg Prep
Georgio's Veg Prep, based in Birmingham, is offering to deliver freshly prepared fruit and vegetables.
They offer a range of fruit and vegetables from £10 as part of pre-prepared mixes – and can deliver to the Walsall area.
The business is based at Birmingham Wholesale Market and can be reached via 07828130738/0789450191.
Or by emailing info@georgiosvegprep.co.uk or visiting www.georgiosvegprep.co.uk
Making Connections Walsall
Making Connections Walsall is supporting older and vulnerable people across the borough.
It offers help with shopping, picking up prescriptions, food parcels, advice on financial help and reassurance calls.
Four centres cover each area in Walsall, with Bloxwich Community Partnership covering north, Old Hall Partnership covering west, Manor Farm Community Association in the east and Accord Age Matters in Walsall south.
To access support, residents can email COVID19communityhelp@walsall.gov.uk or call 0121 380 6690.
To volunteer visit www.onewalsall.org.uk
Combat Covid
A team of 60 young people in Walsall, aged between 15 and 18 have set up an organisation called Combat Covid.
Combat Covid is a network of social media accounts, promoting ways to stay mentally and physically healthy, as well providing motivational and fun content to support young people at this difficult time.
For more information search for ‘Combat Covid’ on Facebook.
Co-op Midcounties
A supermarket chain has joined forces with a Black Country school to deliver essential supplies to vulnerable people.
The partnership has been made between Co-op Midcounties and Walsall Academy to help people facing difficulties in Walsall.
The school has donated its minibus to be used to transport supplies to residents.
Under the scheme, volunteers collect orders from Walsall-based Co-op Midcounties Food stores at The Bridge, Lichfield Road and Bloxwich.
School staff have been encouraged to help in the project.
Simon Woodward, member of staff at Walsall Academy, said: "The Academy has been in lockdown for some weeks now and the majority of teaching is happening remotely.
"Staff are coming into school on a rota system to teach key workers’ children, and we are continuing to support students with vouchers for free school meals.
"But when Co-op Midcounties approached us to help old and vulnerable people who were struggling in the community, we wanted to help in whatever way we could.
"Some people haven’t got anyone, so it’s reassuring to know that someone’s looking out for them. Even if we are only able to spend a few minutes with them, it can make a big difference to see a friendly face and have a chat."
Pelsall star neighbour
Pelsall resident Alysia Dyke is wanting to help others who cannot get out their homes in the area.
Alysia is happy to help with shopping, collecting prescriptions or walking dogs.
Also, if anyone needs a friendly chat, she's happy to be at the other end of the phone.
To contact Alysia, call 07951 064336? or email aly266254@gmail.com
Walsall community staff nurse
A kind-hearted community staff nurse from Walsall and her colleagues have been making sure their patients don't go short during the Covid-19 lockdown.
Chloe Butler sent a message round to her colleagues in the north locality team based at Pinfold Health Centre in Bloxwich, asking them to pick up some extra items when they went shopping.
The team has been busy making up hampers for patients in need.
Chloe, who has worked for Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust for nine years, said: "Many of our patients just don’t have family members to call on and are not able to leave the house even for essentials because of their health conditions, or because they are shielding or self-isolating.
“It is such a worrying time for them so we decided to make things a little easier. We have also been leaving them contact details for Walsall Connections so they can have support in future.
“We treat our patients as we would our own families – sometimes we see more of them than our own families – and I’m really pleased that my fellow community nurses have supported this plea for help so enthusiastically.”
Aisha Mosque and Islamic Centre
Aisha Mosque and Islamic Centre, in Walsall, have set up a community response team to help others.
Volunteers are ready to help the elderly and vulnerable with shopping and collecting food or essentials, picking up medication, friendly phone calls and posting mail.
To contact them, call 01922 620982.
Making Connections Walsall
Making Connections Walsall is supporting older and vulnerable people across the borough.
It offers help with shopping, picking up prescriptions, food parcels, advice on financial help and reassurance calls.
Four centres cover each area in Walsall, with Bloxwich Community Partnership covering north, Old Hall Partnership covering west, Manor Farm Community Association in the east and Accord Age Matters in Walsall south.
To access support, residents can email COVID19communityhelp@walsall.gov.uk or call 0121 380 6690. To volunteer for the scheme visit www.onewalsall.org.uk
Rainbow ice cream
A supermarket chain with stores across the Black Country is raising money for charity to support health workers on the coronavirus frontline.
Aldi has launched a special rainbow ice cream where 50p from each tub goes to NHS Charities Together and the Teenage Cancer Trust.
The ice cream, made in Britain, will be available from June 1.
The flavourings are vanilla and raspberry ripple topped with a sprinkling of hundreds and thousands chocolate.
Aldi provides NHS staff, alongside blue light card holders, priority access to Aldi stores at all times along with exclusive access to stores 30 minutes before normal opening times on Sundays.
Claudia's Kitchen
Claudia’s Kitchen & Midlands Community Group have partnered to provide fresh healthy soups and juices to vulnerable people in the Walsall area.
They are delivering to people living in Walsall, Coalpool and Ryecroft – and are appealing for drivers to help in the Willenhall and Blakenhall areas.
For more information or to volunteer as a driver to help out the team, call Claudia’s Kitchen on 01922 640827 or 07716 323212, or email claudiaskitchenuk@gmail.com.
Willenhall Community Action Group
A group of volunteers have set up the Willenhall Community Action Group Covid-19 to support the needs of the most vulnerable in the area during the coronavirus pandemic.
The group are providing food parcels to the elderly and vulnerable with help from Morrisons, Midlands Meats, Walsall Council and other companies.
For more information or to get in touch visit the group’s Facebook page.
whg
Volunteers from whg are helping to deliver food parcels to support foodbanks and help those in need.
The landlord is working with the four community support hubs set up in Walsall, to coordinate support during the coronavirus pandemic.
Colleagues from whg are working with Making Connections Walsall, to ensure older and vulnerable people have all they need during the crisis. The volunteers from whg's home maintenance team deliver food parcels and prescriptions to residents, as well as pick up donations and supplies from supermarkets.
Rob Gillham, corporate director, said: "Colleagues are playing a crucial role in ensuring vulnerable people across Walsall have the support they need during these difficult times, not only by ensuring customer’s homes remain warm, safe and working but by giving up their time where they can to support with voluntary efforts."
The four hubs offer practical help with shopping, picking up prescriptions, food parcels, advice on financial help and reassurance. They can be contacted on 0121 380 6690 or by emailing COVID-19communityhelp@walsall.gov.uk.
Blakenall star neighbour
Wade Stephens is willing to collect shopping and prescriptions or top up gas and electricity meters for vulnerable or elderly people during the pandemic.
Contact 07932727311.
Bridgnorth
Louise Creswick is a self-employed coach who specialises in Grief, Loss and Wellbeing, in the Bridgnorth area.
She is offering free online/telephone support to those who are struggling with social isolation, mental health concerns, the loss of a loved one during these difficult times, or experiencing any kind of grief.
People can call her on 07730 658390 or email louisecreswick@hotmail.com
South Staffordshire
Perton star neighbour
Pete Corr, from Perton, is offering to run errands and help where he can for people living in the surroundings areas including Compton.
To contact Pete, email pcorr1979@gmail.com
Perton star neighbour
Shell Bristow, from Perton, has offered to help people struggling in the area with shopping – or by running errands for them. Contact her on Facebook.
Coven star neighbour
Carl Bates, from Coven, can collect or deliver essentials to anyone who needs them and is vulnerable or elderly.
The special needs teacher said he wanted to do "something" to help people out during the pandemic.
Call Carl on 07989474824 or email carlbates1979@gmail.com
Le Salon
Pattingham-based hairdressers, Le Salon, is offering complimentary blowdrys to people working in the NHS, emergency services, supermarkets, delivery drivers, care workers and teachers – as a thank you for the work they are doing during the difficult period.
Appointments and walk-in service is now available, but people must bring proof of their profession.
For more information, call the salon on 01902 700007.
Perton star neighbour
Karen Deakin is cooking different hot meals everyday to support those who are struggling in Perton during the coronavirus outbreak.
On Friday, she provided beef chilli and vegan chilli to dozens of residents in need.
Every day she will provide a different meal, which will cost £1.75, and deliver them to the doors of Perton residents.
You can contact Karen by calling 07833 767791, emailing kdeaky@hotmail.co.uk or searching for Karen Deakin on Facebook.
Perton Community Support Hub
Perton Community Support Hub can be contacted by people who need any items – or for those wishing to help out.
Volunteers will be linked to people who are in need. Collection points for non-perishable items have been set up at C&L Foods and The Church at Perton, both located at Anders Square.
Call 07782 899 802. An answer phone will be checked regularly from 9am to 7pm.
South Staffordshire Covid-19 helpline
A Covid-19 helpline has been set up to help residents living in South Staffordshire.
The helpline is available for people living in South Staffordshire who are over 70 or under 70 with underlying health conditions, self-isolating but have no friends, family or neighbours to help.
The line is open Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm. They can help with shopping, collecting prescriptions, topping up gas or electricity meters and dog walking. They can also be there to talk to if people are feeling anxious and lonely.
To contact the South Staffordshire Covid-19 helpline, call 01902 696499 or email covid-19@sstaffs.gov.uk.
Staffordshire
Stafford Coronavirus Support Network
The Stafford Coronavirus Support Network Facebook group has more than 4,000 members working to share information help anyone who needs support during the crisis.
You can apply to join the group here.
Stafford star neighbour
Marcos Clowes is collecting and delivering supplies for people across Stafford on his cargo bicycle.
He can be contacted on Facebook messenger or by calling 07508 724824.
Electric Fitness
A man who runs a fitness club in Staffordshire is setting up free online video workouts for the over 70s to keep them fit.
Karl Broughton-Frew, who runs Electric Fitness in Lichfield, is posting daily videos on Facebook to help the most vulnerable amid the coronavirus.
It comes after Government officials suggested over 70s could be told to stay indoors for up to four months.
The 45-year-old, who runs the Plant Pot Garden Centre-based club, said: "Our members have really taken to using our online workouts to exercise at home.
"It still feels like they are exercising with their friends, but they can do it in the comfort of their own living rooms.
"So, we thought, why can’t this same approach be used to provide some simple, seated workouts for all the people aged over 70 who could be asked to stay in for so long.
"Everyone needs to pull together to support each other at the moment – this is just our little way of helping."
Class instructor Carla Long, aged 27, is creating the 10 minute video workouts which involve simple movements to improve flexibility.
She said: "It’s important for older people to get regular exercise, especially if they are going to be staying inside for so long,.
"So it’s wonderful to be able to create these simple workouts for the over 70s – I hope lots of people take up the opportunity to stay fit while they stay indoors."
Anyone wanting to access the free workouts should visit Electric Fitness on Facebook – with a dedicated page called Freedom 70s and over workouts – set to be created.
Staffordshire Libraries
Libraries across Staffordshire will stream a children's story for parents on Facebook with children to listen to every afternoon at 3pm.
And on Monday and Thursday, they will stream a full baby bounce and rhyme session at 10am each morning.
A statement said: "We understand many of you are staying home at the moment. Keeping little ones entertained can sometimes be tough.
"Let Staffordshire Libraries support you, and your child, with our digital story times and Baby Bounce and Rhyme sessions."
Lichfield support group
More than £1,300 has been raised through a Just Giving appeal to help groups and vulnerable people across the Lichfield district.
Lichfield District Council has set up the measure in a bid to help people – and groups which offer support – amid coronavirus.
Councillor Ashley Yeates, cabinet member for communities and housing, said: “We’ve all been so impressed with the number of people offering to support their local communities who are suffering as a result of the coronavirus crisis, and know that many of our residents want to do more.
"This is why we have set up the Lichfield coronavirus relief fund.
"We’re aiming to raise funds to support people and communities across Lichfield District that have been affected by Covid-19. I’d like to thank everyone who donates to the fund - with your support we will be able to help many more people across the district.”
To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/lichfieldcoronavirus
Hidden Warriors
Stafford-based community interest company Hidden Warriors normally provides support to the partners and children of UK Armed Forces veterans.
But since the Covid-19 pandemic, they have turned their attention to helping the wider community – by providing stationery and books to children in self-isolation and those less fortunate than others since the school closures.
They have already delivered dozens of packages to children in Staffordshire aged between four and nine years old. The stationery and books has been purchased through funds raised on Hidden Warriors' Crowdfunding page.
To contact them, search for 'Hidden Warriors CiC' on Facebook.
Harvey's Autos Garage
Harvey’s Autos Garage in Wolverhampton Road, Stafford is offering key workers a free MOT.
Anyone who works for the emergency services or a supermarket and needs their MOT renewing can take advantage of the offer.
General manager Steve Winterburn said: “We have closed the showroom but still have mechanics here so thought it would be something we can do to help.”
Call the garage on 01785 212888.
Free computers for students
A Staffordshire mobile repair shop is donating about 50 desktop computers to school children who don't have them.
The kind gesture, by Master Mobile in Burntwood, has been done to help children currently out of school due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The business will send the laptops to Chase Terrace Technology College, which will then distribute the equipment among its secondary school pupils.
Master Mobile has sourced and paid for the desktops itself.
The company has encouraged anyone with old computers and laptops to donate them there, so other vulnerable people who need them can get access to computers. All data will be wiped off the machines beforehand.
To donate, email hello@devicemedics.co.uk
Chase Coronavirus Support Network
Volunteers have now set up the CCSN – Chase Coronavirus Support Network to collect shopping and medication for vulnerable residents.
The group cover the entire Cannock Chase District Council area, as well as Huntington, Hatherton and Great Wyrley.
To contact the group, leave a voicemail by calling 01543 220124, fill out the form on their website www.ccsn.org.uk, or email help@ccsn.org.uk.
The group of volunteers also have a Facebook group which now has more than 9,000 followers. Search for 'Chase Coronavirus Support Network'.
They can also get self help and advice on our Facebook Group which has over 9000 followers. Search Chase Coronavirus Support Network.
Lichfield support group
A Staffordshire councillor and group of community leaders are setting up a free app to maintain community contact with residents living in rural areas of Lichfield.
Staffordshire County Councillor David Smith is setting up the system to help residents keep in face-to-face contact.
It is hoped the project will launch next week and will allow participants to maintain contact from their homes with friends and family, as well as larger groups including meetings of village clubs, virtual coffee mornings and church services.
Councillor Smith said: "Most of us have never experienced loneliness and isolation in the way coronavirus will impose on us, so keeping in touch is a vital part of our mental health and wellbeing."
For more information, call Councillor Smith on 07831 533550 or email david.smith1@staffordshire.gov.uk.
Staffordshire South West Citizens Advice
Staffordshire South West Citizens Advice, which has suspended face-to-face services, is still running a helpline to those most in need.
Sue Nicholls, chief executive officer of Citizens Advice Staffordshire South West, said: “Our offices in Stafford, Stone, Cannock, Rugeley and South Staffordshire (Wombourne) are closed but we are available on the telephone, email or web chat.
“We can still offer you the information, advice and support to anyone who needs us.
“These are difficult times for us all, but please contact us and we will do our best to help.”
The Citizens Advice telephone helpline is available Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm, on 03444 111 444.
Principal Business Solutions
The director of Principal Business Solutions has donated hand sanitiser to Lichfield District Council to protect its key workers.
Ian Gibson, who lives in Lichfield, has given the authority eight five-litre bottles of hand sanitiser after his business, based in Birmingham, temporarily closed during the lockdown.
The hand gel will be added to the council's supplies for key workers out in the field, collecting bins and delivering essential shopping and supplies to households across the district.
Mr Gibson said: “In times like this it is important that we all pull together to support one another. It only seemed right that the alcohol gel went where it was needed most.
“Our key workers at the council are doing a marvellous job looking after vulnerable people with food deliveries and removing household waste, if this gel helps them to stay safe then it is a gift very well donated.”
Super Smart Service Limited
A Cannock-based company has donated 1,000 face masks to Lichfield District Council to support key workers.
Super Smart Service Limited, in Kingwood Lakeside, donated the masks to help protect council staff working in key service areas, such as bin collections and delivering emergency shopping to self-isolating residents.
Cannock Chase Council originally received 10,000 free fluid resistant surgical face masks and 5,000 FFP2 standard face masks from the Super Smart Service Limited. As part of this offer, the company asked that 1,000 masks went to Lichfield District Council and 2,000 masks went to Walsall Council.
Kemp & Kemp
An award-winning Staffordshire-based wedding caterers has launched a new home delivery service for people living within 30 minutes of Stafford during the lockdown. Kemp & Kemp, started by couple Richard and Karen Kemp, are well-known in the wedding industry for their homemade dishes.
They are now offering five of their signature dishes to people who are self-isolating at a click of a button.
They have a virtual booking system in place, making the service completely contactless and will leave a prepared meal on your doorstep, ready to pop in the oven. The first home delivery will take place on Friday(10) – with a Greek taverna lamb dish.
Richard Kemp, co-director, said: “We are not cooking our lovely food for our brides and grooms at the moment, but we couldn’t let Karen’s cooking skills go to waste. We have been inundated with requests to put together a delivery service – so that is exactly what we are going to do.”
University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust Charity
The University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust Charity has delivered a raft of donations from businesses to frontline staff working at their hospitals.
The trust's charity received donations of food from Muller UK, Culina Group, Severn Trent Water, Tittesworth Water, JCB and Co-op.
A spokesman for the charity said: "It's thanks to kind donations of food that we have been able to help raise the spirits and energy levels of our frontline staff at both Royal Stoke and County Hospitals this week."
Holiday Inn Cannock
Holiday Inn in Cannock is offering free takeaway tea and coffee to all NHS staff and key workers.
The hotel is encouraging those people to pop in at any time of the day – as they are open 24 hours a day.
In a post on their Facebook page, the hotel said: "Thank you to all the NHS staff and key workers for all the hard work you are continuing to do.
"Please pop in for a free tea of coffee whenever you want.
"If you are stuck for accommodation over the coming weeks, please get in touch and we will be more than happy to help."
For accommodation queries, call Holiday Inn Cannock on 01543 461561.
Central England Co-op and Lichfield District Council
A scheme aimed at getting vital food and essentials to Lichfield residents, who are self-isolating but do not have anyone to help them, has now helped 100 people.
Central England Co-op teamed up with Lichfield District Council to launch the project in an effort to support the vulnerable members of the local community with vital care packages.
The council identifies vulnerable community members, gathers orders and passes them onto the retailer’s community hub at its Boley Park Food Store.
Central England Co-op colleagues then create a package and take payment from the customer over the phone before the local authority delivers the goods.
James Knight, member and community relations officer for Central England Co-op, said: "It is great to see that our partnership has helped 100 people so far gain access to vital food and essentials they otherwise may have missed out on."
Letters of Support
Children at a primary school have written letters to doctors and nurses in Staffordshire.
Pupils at Barnfields Primary School, in Stafford, sent the letters to staff at Country Hospital, in Stafford.
They thanked staff for their hard work while being on the frontline against coronavirus.
The hospital received more than 20 letters from Year Six pupils.
These were some of the messages from pupils.
One pupil said: "Thank you, thank you for all that you are doing day and night. Last year my nan was taken very poorly and you took such special care of her. You are all such special people doing an incredible job."
Another pupil wrote: "I am writing to thank you for what you’ve done. Even when you can’t go on, you do, so thank you for all your hard work and effort."
A third pupil wrote: "You are working long and hard shifts and because of you, we are fighting this virus. I cannot thank you enough for what you are doing."
A message from staff at the school added: "A huge thank you for the tireless work you are doing in the current climate.
"We rely so much on the NHS in our country, but recent events have only highlighted this more and opened everyone’s eyes in terms of what an important and crucial group of people you are."
Scrubs for Stoke
A group has been set up in Staffordshire to provide scrubs for frontline staff working at Stafford’s County Hospital and Royal Stoke Hospital.
The group started as a small Whats App group at the end of March and now has more than 1,300 members on Facebook.
They are setting out to make 2,000 sets of scrubs set up for staff working at the University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust.
To contact the group, email scrubsforstoke@gmail.com or visit www.scrubsforstoke.com to donate.
Burntwood Be A Friend
Burntwood Be A Friend community group is aiming to help residents in the Staffordshire town who is vulnerable, shielding or self-isolating during the pandemic.
Some of the services they offer include a telephone befriending service and a shopping service.
To contact the group, search for Burntwood Be A Friend on Facebook, call 01543 524 224, or email burntwoodbeafriend@gmail.com.
Briggs UK
Briggs UK, in Orbital Way, Cannock, is supporting the Cannock Foodbank during the Covid-19 lockdown.
The team from Briggs recently visited to help sort donations – and have now donated £2,000 to help them support more people.
