Dear All, I am writing to you both personally, and on behalf of West Suffolk Council, to say a massive thank you for the vital job you are doing supporting the most vulnerable in our communities during this difficult time. The community spirit which you embody and the amazing effort to go the extra mile that you have been giving is what makes West Suffolk such a great place to live and work. The partnership between our staff and yourselves in delivering the Home But Not Alone service has meant hundreds of vulnerable people have been comforted and supported when they most need it. I cannot thank you – and indeed all volunteers and groups involved – enough for your efforts and dedication. Our Council has worked hard to build up its families and community work with our staff working alongside local groups and organisations. I believe that this can only be strengthened by the work being carried out now and that this will continue long into the future.
I also wanted to make you aware that a postcard/flyer will be going out to every household in Suffolk via Royal Mail during this week with a reminder of the ‘Home, But Not Alone’ helpline number. We know that this is likely to cause a spike in referrals for a few days and wanted to make sure that you are aware that some of these may come your way. This is a countywide bid to help make sure that any vulnerable person who has not so far come forward (or we are not yet aware of) can also access the support they need.The Suffolk Collaborative, which is made up of public service organisations across Suffolk, including West Suffolk Council, would like to learn how we can best support you in the coming months.
In order to do this a survey has been created to capture the most up to date picture about your group/organisation and an opportunity for you to highlight any additional support you may need. This could be things like gaining additional volunteers, support and guidance on processes, how to apply for additional funding and much more. Please click the link to complete this survey: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/COVID-19CommunityGroupsSurvey
The results will be analysed on the 4 May and we will be in touch following this. If you need support beforehand please contact: Families.Communities@westsuffolk.gov.uk
Once again, a huge thank you to you all, and the many volunteers that are making such an amazing difference in our communities in these very challenging times. There is no doubt that your hard work, dedication and sacrifice is and has been a shining light in these dark days and exemplifies what being a good neighbour and member of a community is all about.
With best wishes, John
Councillor John Griffiths, Leader of West Suffolk Council
