Posted: Sat 25th Apr 2020

Concerns raised that vulnerable people on Anglesey are being left behind during coronavirus pandemic

North Wales news and information
This article is old - Published: Saturday, Apr 25th, 2020

Concerns have been raised that vulnerable residents on Anglesey are continuing to fall through the net despite measures to support them through the Coronavirus crisis.

In a bid to meet the unprecedented demand on public services, Anglesey now has four established food banks that offer a delivery service, providing food parcels, including items such as breakfast cereals, soups, pasta, rice, and tinned products.

Based in Holyhead, Amlwch, Llangefni and Menai Bridge, deliveries are being made to 100 addresses a week – marking a major increase before the pandemic when 60 homes a month were receiving deliveries.

But while the council leader has paid tribute to the “robust community network,” with volunteers and business also offering services such as food and medication deliveries to those working the front line, concerns have been raised that some remain out of reach.

“These are unprecedented times and the authority is doing all it can to protect and support those in crisis,” said Cllr Llinos Medi.

“I am however worried that some are slipping through the net.

“Asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of and we in partnership with Menter Môn and Medrwn Môn have introduced a variety of different projects, ensuring food provisions, supporting community and business support networks.

“My aim is to ensure that we do everything possible to safeguard Anglesey’s residents. There is no stigma in asking for help and we are here to support our communities.”

Meanwhile y Gymdeithas, formerly known as The Isle of Anglesey Charitable Trust, has already earmarked £106,000 to help community groups across the island.

More than £56,000 will be released over the coming days to support various projects focusing on ensuring community resilience during lockdown.

The projects will focus on the distribution of food and medication to the most vulnerable; as well as providing practical and emotional support to those suffering as a result of the crisis.

The moves comes as result of an earlier decision to release an initial £200,000 to help alleviate poverty, illness and hardship caused amongst the residents of Anglesey.

The trust’s Chair, Trefor Lloyd Hughes, said: “We’re pleased to have been able to earmark an initial £106,000 towards helping our communities and residents at a time of such great need.

“There is still a significant amount funding available to local groups and organisations – which meet the criteria – and I would urge them to submit their bids as part of this second round of grant applications.

“This funding can and will make a real difference to those currently in dire need as a result of this terrible Coronavirus pandemic.”

Cllr Medi added: “Anglesey has a strong social fabric and this has been made clear during this pandemic.

“Seeing all the support packages currently on offer is very humbling and I want people to know that they can ask for help.”

“During this difficult period we need to look after each other more than ever.”

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter



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