Hull Helpline has supported thousands of the city’s most vulnerable

The Hull Helpline has helped thousands of the city’s most vulnerable residents since its launch in March.

The helpline was launched with support from more than 40 organisations from the voluntary and community sector.

Since then, staff have contacted more than 20,000 potentially vulnerable households and dealt with requests from almost 6,000 of those homes.

It has generated more than 8,000 requests for help, leading to almost 4,000 food parcel deliveries, 126 befriending requests and 65 requests for dog-walking.

The most common requests have been for food parcels or arranging grocery shopping, totalling 54 per cent of the calls to the helpline.

Other concerns are around the collection of medication at around 20 per cent, financial concerns account for about 10 per cent and energy payments another seven per cent.

Councillor Stephen Brady, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “We are here to support the city’s residents. Some people are very vulnerable and need help as they have no other support network in place and we will continue to offer help and advice to those who need it.

“This is a really difficult time for us all as we continue to adapt to the changes to lockdown guidelines, but we are a strong and resilient city and will get through this together.

“We’ve received tremendous support from the voluntary and community sector and the Hull Helpline is a fine example of what great partnership work is all about.”

The Hull Helpline can be reached by calling 01482 300 307 seven days a week from 9am to 5pm. Requests for help can also be made at hull.gov.uk

Residents who are worried about their finances, employment or benefit issues should email Citizens Advice Bureau on e-advice@hull-eastridingcab.org.uk or call 03444 111444.