Nottingham City Council Leader, Councillor David Mellen:

I know that people across the city are concerned about how they are going to access vital services and basic necessities, such as medication, food or just general advice on how to get everyday support.

Since the outbreak of the Coronavirus, the Council has been working around the clock to ensure we support residents in the right way, but we’re also aware that a large number of community groups and volunteers have come forward and offered their time and resources to support those in need. We are extremely grateful to them and the work they are doing in their communities – they’re doing a fantastic job of seeing what the need is locally and finding a practical solution. I’m heartened by the amazing community response we’ve seen in Nottingham, from neighbours looking out for one another, to the Robin Hood Fund raising money for those in need, which has raised over £20,000 already. I’m delighted the first £10,000 of this is going to be donated to local food banks – thank you to everyone who has donated so far. Donations are still being accepted here.

From today, for those who are self-isolating and do not have a support network but are in need of help, such as picking up and delivering goods, you can call Nottingham City Council on 0115 915 5555, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. If you need help, we will connect you to community support groups and neighbourhood volunteer teams.

Finally, tonight up and down the country people will be showing their appreciation for our outstanding NHS workers who are right on the frontline, support and caring for our most vulnerable at the forefront of this crisis. At 8pm, join me as we applaud, from our gardens, front doors and living rooms, in support and appreciation of those working in the health service – not forgetting our own frontline council staff , including those working in social care, for all they always do, and, particularly what they are doing right now in such difficult circumstances.

As we head towards the weekend, please continue to wash your hands thoroughly and frequently, stay at home, stay apart if you need to go out and stay safe.