Big Local Update
The last few months have been so difficult for our community and with the Covid-19 outbreak causing heartache and problems for many people it has been a struggle to continue with our work. These are certainly the most challenging times that most of us have lived through but hopefully with the relaxing of some restrictions there may be a light at the end of a very long dark tunnel.
During the lock down some of our members have not been able to take an active role and meetings have been carried out fortnightly via Zoom and this may have to continue for a while longer. It now seems like a good time to give an update on what we have managed to achieve to help respond to some of the needs of the most vulnerable in our community.
Through the hard work and commitment of our members and the staff at the Snap Tin Cafe many vulnerable and self- isolating families, and those struggling financially have received regular food parcels to help ease the strain. Anita and the staff at the Snap Tin have worked with other groups to try and ensure that no one has had to go hungry through this crisis. They have all done an amazing job and the recipients of the food parcels have been very thankful for them.
Two local groups have also been given grants to help respond to needs as a result of the pandemic and this was taken from a budget that the Partnership had allocated for the Covid-19 response. If anyone feels they need help at this time please get in touch through our contact page or ring April on 07879 739043, she will be happy to talk through any plans or ideas you may have.
We have also been helping people to stay connected and keep in touch during lock-down and members Kevin and Anita have been providing isolated and vulnerable people with digital tablets so they can talk to friends and relatives. These tablets are loaned to individuals from Big Local and training on how to use them has been given (adhering to all social distancing rules). Again if anyone thinks they would benefit from this initiative please get in touch to see if we can help.
Prior to lock down we had started work on our Plan Review, this is carried out periodically and allows the Partnership and the community to reflect on how the Big Local money has been spent and plan what they would like to do during the following plan period. However, Covid-19 has put a stop to this been completed but we are hoping to make a start on getting this process completed now restrictions are easing. Until that time our support and services will be restricted but we hope it will not be too long before we can all meet up again and continue the work to make a difference to the people of Goldthorpe and Bolton on Dearne. Until then please feel free to make contact if you would like to get involved or think you or someone you know could benefit from our support and help. We sincerely hope that you all keep safe and well and we look forward to getting out and about and meeting people again very soon.
