STUDLEY is pulling together to look after its vulnerable, isolated and elderly in the current coronavirus crisis.
Driven by residents Amy Thomas and Ruth Jewell, secretary of the Studley in Business group, the Studley Isolation Support Group has been able to leaflet every house in the village with a list of all the support that’s available.
This ranges from The Bespoke Butcher’s and Bruno’s Bakery’s delivery services to dog walkers, takeaways and a coordinator for home deliveries.
It’s backed up by more than 50 volunteers while the single phone line – 07933 093268 – is held in turn by six DBS checked administrators.
And they’ve come up with a simple password system to make sure everyone stays safe from fraudsters and rogues.
“There was concern within the village that we needed to do something,” said Ruth.
“Bespoke Butchers were concerned that no one seemed to know about their home delivery service and I realised we had to do a leaflet just to let people know what support was out there.
“In the meantime Amy had set up a support group and had already recruited lots of volunteers and it made sense to combine forces.”
A meeting with the Parish Council followed and the scheme stress tested.
The Parish donated a phone, PSW printed the leaflets, the Police were brought on board and the scheme was launched.
“It’s really important to make sure people feel safe.
“We have a strong system, people self isolating and the elderly can get groceries delivered, it’s all password controlled, we have strict guidelines and it’s all working really well.
“My mum lives in Cheltenham and she’s relying on people to help her down there. Here I feel I’m helping to pay back to this community for the benefits mum’s getting.
“We have support from the business community, we know some people don’t have internet access, we know some don’t do social media, and we think we have all bases covered.
“Working with Amy is a pleasure, and it works.”
