Scalby and Newby Parish Council start postcard scheme to help community during coronavirus outbreak

The idea was inspired by a Cornwall woman whose post about a similar scheme she had set up was widely shared on social media using the hashtag #viralkindness.

The postcards can be posted through neighbours' doors to let them know someone is willing to offer help if people are elderly, vulnerable or self-isolating.

Help being offered includes picking up shopping, posting mail or a friendly phone call.

Tina Boden, a local business owner, who was already working with the parish council on a community engagement project, saw the original social media post.

She said: "I'd seen it on social media and thought that would be a great thing to do.

"It's encouraging to see the positivity in the community that is happening during this time."

Tina contacted McRay Press, a local firm, who printed 5,000 of the postcards which are now available to pick up from businesses within the parish council boundary such as Proudfoot, The Yew Tree, The Plough and the library.

They will also be circulated to households with the help of volunteers and anyone who would like to help with this effort is asked to get in touch with the parish council.

Parish councillor, Reg Towse, chairman of Newby and Scalby Parish Council, said: "We find ourselves in very strange and difficult times, not just nationally but globally. It is support to us as a Parish Council to look after the residents within our boundary, especially those that are elderly and vulnerable.

"In the meantime we ask that we come together as a community to support each other.

"We have adopted an idea from a lady in Cornwall and have had this postcard printed for you to share with your neighbours. We do not want anyone feeling isolated or alone at this difficult time."

Anyone who would like to help distribute postcards, or has any other ideas to help in the community is asked to contact the parish council on 01723 354 018, [email protected] or via their Facebook page.