The Hull Helpline has received about 150 calls a day since its launch last week.
The helpline was launched by Hull City Council on Thursday 26 March to support vulnerable residents impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
Since then, hundreds of residents have contacted the line and the council’s website hull.gov.uk to request help.
Around 78 per cent of requests were in relation to access to food. Of those, 60 per cent were for food parcels, 32 per cent requested food collections and some asked for help to signing up to online food shopping.
The council is working with community centres, food banks and FareShare to coordinate requests for food.
The #HullHelpline is now LIVE!
Hull Helpline has been created to support the most vulnerable residents who have no support network in place.
If you need support we urge you to contact 01482 300 307 or visit https://t.co/zxmSGzv0CN #HullTogether
Read: https://t.co/nNtQzfsjO0 pic.twitter.com/pQhkM0f2jG
— Hull CC News (@Hullccnews) March 26, 2020
Other calls were made for support with the collection of medication, debt management advice and making energy payments, as well as requests for telephone befriending. All calls made are being responded to and prioritised to their level of need.
Councillor Stephen Brady, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “This helpline and online form is to support the city’s most vulnerable residents in our communities, those who are self-isolating and have no family, friends or carers in place.
“All requests for help have been prioritised and help has been mobilised to those in urgent need. The council and I will do everything we can to support our community.”
The three community hubs are now working with partners, local policing teams, Humberside Fire and Rescue and the voluntary community sector via the North Bank Forum.
One resident who called the helpline thanked the team for the quick response. The resident said: “Thank you. I received my medication this afternoon. If you could forward my thanks to the volunteer I would appreciate it. Also thanks to you and your colleagues who are going above and beyond for the residents of Hull.”
There has also been a good response to those who would like to support Absolutely Cultured volunteers.
Those who have no one available to help or advise them and need the council to support can fill in an online form at the council’s website or call the Hull Helpline on 01482 300307. The line is open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm.
To provide support and work with existing volunteers, register details at the council’s website or call 01482 300307.
