Councils call for neighbours to look out for each other
Local government leaders are calling for neighbours to make a special effort to look out for each other over the Christmas period.
The Local Government Association is warning many people not previously considered at risk could now be struggling after days of being snowed in, possibly with frozen pipes, delayed fuel deliveries and a lack of food and heat.
Particularly vulnerable are homes in rural areas not on the national gas grid which rely on heating oil for warmth and cooking. The high demand for fuel caused by the early onset of winter and continuing delays to supplies because of bad weather means some households will not get deliveries before Christmas.
Councils have systems in place to check on people registered as vulnerable throughout winter, as well as emergency contact numbers on their websites for anyone in difficulty. However, the current deep freeze may now be affecting people not used to asking for help.
Cllr David Rogers, chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, said:
“It’s not just gritters which hit the street as councils strive to keep the country running through the treacherous snow and ice. Dedicated council staff also brave the elements to call on the elderly and vulnerable to make sure they’re safe, comfortable, warm and well stocked with hot food and drink.
“Town halls provide a wide range of services which can help to prevent people from falling ill or feeling isolated, but local people also have a crucial part to play in helping identify those who may need more help. This is more true than ever this year with delays to heating oil delivery compounding the weeks of freezing weather many have experienced.
“Eating well and keeping warm can make all the difference between life and death, and we can all play a part in making sure those more vulnerable than ourselves receive these basic necessities.
He continued “It’s understandable we want to shut out the freezing world outside when we get home, but it takes only a moment to think about a neighbour who may not have the friends and family around them that you do. Workers such as postmen, milkmen and newspaper boys and girls should also be extra vigilant.
“Spotting that someone hasn’t opened their curtains or picked up milk bottles from their doormat could be a sign they are struggling and need more help. A simple knock on the door could provide a vital lifeline to someone who perhaps feels too proud to ask for help.”
