People power: Biggleswade and Potton volunteers rally round to meet crisis demand

Over the past few weeks, existing groups, such as Biggleswade Good Neighbours, have taken on additional volunteers to help people who are vulnerable or self-isolating.

Other groups such as the Potton Community C-19 Support Group have been set up specially to support residents during the crisis.

One resident, Central Bedfordshire Councillor, and Potton group member, Tracey Wye, said: “We have helpers assigned to every household in Potton – 129 volunteers in total. If you are self-isolating due to COVID-19, we can help with shopping, getting urgent supplies or posting mail.

“You should have received a postcard in March, with the name and phone number of your designated helper. Please contact them if you need assistance.”

If you are a Potton resident who cannot find your postcard, contact Tracey on 0300 300 8528 or email [email protected]

Potton residents suffering from a reduction in household income, and experiencing difficulty in feeding their family, can contact, in confidence: Andrea MacAdam (Potton Community Agent) on 07590359630; 
[email protected]. You can also contact Tracey.

Andrea and Tracey can refer people to established food bank charities which Potton Town Council is supporting with its own funds, as well as with donations from Potton Consolidated Charities and the community via online fundraising.

The latest announcement from Biggleswade Good Neighbours on social media is as follows: “As expected, we are processing a higher than usual amount of requests. We are prioritising tasks and following public health guidance. To this effect, we will not be able to help with usual DIY or gardening tasks.

“When possible, give us advance notice. We also need to be prioritising those who have no other support available to please consider if your task could be safely carried out by a family member, friend or neighbour.”

To get in touch, please call 07771 104255.