COVID-19 HUB
a MESSAGE FROM Stephen
“The Prime Minister has announced “drastic action” to stop the spread of the virus, on the grounds that – as many had warned – the previous strategy of slowing it down would eventually have overwhelmed intensive care units. He has asked that people do not leave their homes unless they need to buy food or medicine or are exercising. Key workers are still able to travel to work.
“My office is running a near normal-service during the Covid-19 crisis. Unfortunately we have had to stop my regular advice surgeries and drop-in clinics, but I am running telephone surgeries instead. Please feel free to get in touch about anything that may be troubling you. You can leave a message for me on the usual number – 0207 219 4000 – or email me at timmss@parliament.uk.”
Newham council
The Council has launched #HelpNewham – a way of delivering support to residents who are most in need. They are using a network of schools and council buildings across the borough to act as distribution centres for residents.
If you need support, the Council can provide you with the following support:
Home delivery of food and essential items (e.g. toothpaste, sanitary items);
Home delivery of prescription medication; and
Someone to talk to via our befriending telephone chat service.
For more information about #HelpNewham, click here.
national & local advice
The Government’s official advice can be found here. It includes guidance for employers and businesses, stay-at-home guidance, travel advice and advice for health professionals. The advice tends to change regularly so it might be wise to save the address and refer to it every other day or so.
Locally, there are number of charities and community-run ventures operating to assist those who are struggling. I have produced a list which is available here.
Should you require a foodbank voucher, then please contact the office directly on 0207 219 4000. You may be prompted to leave a message, in which case, please do so leaving a contact telephone number. Alternatively, please email timmss@parliament.uk.
return to the uk
There are a number of constituents who are having difficulties in returning to the UK. It is clear the FCOs current response has been to slow - there has been very patchy support being provided in some countries; and the lack of direct action to bring British nationals in the most serious need or difficulty back to the UK.
If you are stuck abroad, or have relatives who are struggling to return, then you should contact the FCO to pass on the names, contact details and locations of all those travelling. This will enable you to register for updates about potential flights. This should be done by emailing help@fco.gov.uk.
In order for your case to be raised with the Foreign Secretary, please complete this form and email it to timmss@parliament.uk.