In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, over 1600 tasks from collecting shopping to friendly phonecalls have been undertaken by Easingwold District Community Care Association and members of South Hambleton and Ryedale Primary Care Network (PCN).

Di Watkins, Chief Officer of Easingwold District Community Care Association, said: “The pandemic has hit us in many ways, however with our fantastic staff and volunteers we have managed to deliver first rate services to the people of Easingwold and beyond.

“So far we have undertaken over 1600 tasks for the people of Easingwold and villages. The support by local community groups has been tremendous with many of the village shops acting as hubs in our area.  Throughout this work we have been able to help with collecting prescriptions, have increased our telephone befriending service to help 44 new people and have referred 38 people to partners for additional help.

“Our volunteers have also walked dogs, watered plants, tuned TV sets and delivered afternoon teas to 60 people paid for by Easingwold Lions.  We will continue to do this in partnership with local agencies and businesses for as long as people need us to.”

Together over 3,700 meals on wheels have been served, wool and haberdashery has been supplied to one resident who has made numerous Dementia Twiddle Muffs which we have distributed in our area.

Dr Paula Evans, South Hambleton and Ryedale PCN Clinical Director and Easingwold GP, said: “The work being done across Easingwold and surrounding villages to support the most vulnerable through the pandemic and lockdowns has been outstanding. The impact has reached all aspects our local communities, by working together we have been able to support the most vulnerable and at risk.

“Through our Primary Care Network (PCN) our existing Care Coordinator, Social Prescribing Link Worker and Parkinson’s nurse have really come into their own, using their strong knowledge and working relationships with our community partners to ensure our patients actually now have a wider suite of options available to them, such as Health Navigator and network of volunteer support.”

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