In these difficult times we don’t want anyone to feel alone

Support is at hand if you need help

Volunteers needed – Let’s keep Bletchington safe
A small group of people in the village have already come forward to offer their support in the event that help is needed to run errands such as shopping or collecting prescriptions for anyone who is self-isolating. We really need as many people as possible to volunteer their services as there is always the risk that the volunteers may go down with the virus themselves, so the more people involved, the best chance we have of keeping a pool of fit individuals willing to help others. It may be the case, hopefully, that you will not be called upon to do anything. If you are able to volunteer, please contact the Village News editor who is coordinating volunteers by e-mail: petebaker99@gmail.com or phone 01869 350117 to have your name added to our list of volunteers.

If you need help
If you are self-isolating and need help with shopping or collecting prescriptions or similar essential tasks, please contact the editor by e-mailing petebaker99@gmail.com or telephoning 01869 350117 explaining exactly what help you need. We will then endeavour to get someone out to you to assist.

Social media
The village has also organised an online response to help those who might need support during the social distancing period. There is a WhatsApp group called BletchNet that is open to any villager to join to offer help or request it.

Help offers might be for shopping, a weekly phone call or collection of prescriptions for those distancing themselves. It is also a place to request help too. All other village info via the usual Facebook/Social media channels; this is for help offered/needed only. If you’d like to join please send a text to 07970 618260 and you’ll be added.

We hope the helplines in the Village News together with this WhatsApp group will ensure those who need help get it and we all keep safe over this period.

Age UK Oxfordshire
For further support, Age UK Oxfordshire can help. Their telephone support line helps older people and carers with a friendly chat, or a more focused conversation on particular issues. Their telephone number is: 01865 411288.

A special offer from Zero C
Zero C, part of the Places for People Group, the developers at Duchy Field, have generously offered a “go to the shop” service for the older and more vulnerable in our community. They plan to organise this at certain times during the day. If you wish to ask for their help, please call Shane Evans on 07776 725984 with your shopping list, and he will make arrangements for you to pay, and for it to be delivered to you – providing it is available in the shop.