Hambleton and Richmondshire residents
are being encouraged to be ‘good neighbours’.
A major new initiative has been launched
designed to keep everyone – especially the elderly – safe this
winter.
Leaflets and posters are being circulated
around the districts packed with useful telephone numbers,
information on snow clearing, dealing with power failures and
finding tradesmen.
The Hambleton and Richmondshire Strategic
Forum campaign will also see two emergency helplines opened when
severe weather conditions strike. The lines – which will be
manned through the district council contact centres – will give
residents a single point of contact for information.
Hambleton residents should call 0845 1211 555
and Richmondshire’s 01748 829100.
Over the last two winters the severe weather
has kept many people indoors – and those that have ventured out
have put themselves at risk. The Forum believes that
everyone should be a ‘good neighbour’, whatever the age of the
person living next door – clearing snow, collecting prescriptions,
doing shopping, or just simply being there for a chat during long
cold spells.
“Through this initiative we are looking to
address concerns expressed by Age UK over the provision for elderly
people through the winter,” said Forum Chair, Rosemary Taylor.
“We want to encourage communities to take
responsibility for those who may vulnerable during periods of
severe weather. By promoting good neighbourliness and self help we
believe communities will be better prepared for the winter
ahead.
“We also hope that this approach will help
relieve the pressure on the statutory and voluntary organisations
that have to respond to an increase in emergency call-outs during
the winter.”
The scheme has seen a new leaflet produced and
distributed through Age UK at flu jab clinics. It is also
available at district council offices in Northallerton, Stokesley,
Easingwold, Richmond, Colburn, Reeth, Hawes and Leyburn; and at
libraries across the two districts.
October 25, 2011