Vulnerable residents get door knock welfare visits from council staff and volunteers

These checks are in addition to outbound calls to people who are particularly vulnerable to being hospitalised as a result of COVID-19 and are being shielded – these visits have been ongoing for several weeks in partnership with district councils.

So far over 13,000 people have been contacted by telephone to make sure they have support in place.

The door knock checks have been planned over four weekends and include delivering a leaflet with the County Council’s customer service centre number and a free copy of the Yorkshire Post paper.

Gary Fielding, the county council’s director of strategic resources said: “These checks are crucial in ensuring that people in North Yorkshire are getting the help and support they need, particularly those who are most vulnerable.

“It’s reassuring that for most people help is there from family and friends.

“I would like to thank our residents who are continuing to look out for those left isolated and the countless volunteers supporting vulnerable people at this difficult time.

“My heartfelt thanks also go to council staff who are volunteering to check on people over this weekend and following weekends. Their enthusiasm and dedication is a superb example of this incredible Team North Yorkshire effort.”

Those in need of help who don’t have anyone else to call on, or anyone concerned about the welfare of someone else, should contact North Yorkshire County Council’s customer service centre on 01609 780780.

The centre is open seven days a week 8am to 5:30pm including bank holidays.

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