More than 7,000 clinically vulnerable people across Birmingham are receiving a weekly food parcel as part of the emergency response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Around half of these are currently being provided by the city council while the national service reaches full capacity. Current there are 7,395 citizens on the clinically shielded list who are receiving parcels either through the council or through national arrangements.
Although initial deliveries were standard food parcels, the city council is now catering for limited dietary requirements – diabetic, gluten-intolerance, nut allergy, halal and vegetarian.
The council is also ensuring people who are not able to access food supplies but are not classed as clinically vulnerable – such as those over 70, self-isolating due to illness, pregnant, receiving support through adult social care – are able to get help, via The Active Wellbeing Society.
Cllr Paulette Hamilton, cabinet member for health and social care, said: “A huge amount of work has gone into this over the past few weeks, and continues every day, ensuring our most vulnerable citizens get the support they need.
“It is a major operation involving a food hub where supplies will be stored and packed, sourcing a food supply and then distributing via colleagues at National Express Accessible Transport. Well done to all involved.”
The city council’s emergency community response hub provides support to vulnerable citizens, for both emergency food supplies and social contact. It will signpost and connect vulnerable citizens who have no assistance from family or friends and need help and support.
Citizens are being asked if they do have existing help and support from family and friends, to continue to use this so that the council can focus on our most vulnerable citizens.
