Supporting North Devon
Covid-19 is having a huge impact and presents many challenges for everyone in the country.
National Government, Local Government and communities are coming together to support one another and protect the vulnerable.
Across the country there has been a wonderful wave of community spiritedness with volunteer networks set up and Parish councils taking the lead in rural communities.
North Devon is a large and rural constituency with many relatively isolated communities and households, that may struggle to get access to the essentials if self-isolating.
Parish councils and support groups have been popping up across North Devon offering deliveries of food, collections of prescriptions and even just a voice to chat to on the phone. This crisis is bring out the best in our towns and villages and if you feel like you need some support there are people nearby who can help.
To find out more about the support in your area click on your town or village to head to one of the community groups available close to you. This list is being updated constantly, so if your area is not listed please come back and it will be soon, if you need help urgently please contact Selaine's office at 01271 327 990.
Ilfracombe, Hele & Lee | Barnstaple | Braunton, Wrafton & Chivenor | Combe Martin & Berrynarbor | South Molton | Fremington & Roundswell | Brendon, Countisbury, Parracombe, Martinhoe, Barbrook, Lynton & Lynmouth | Rackenford | Meshaw | East & West Worlington | Woolacombe & Mortehoe | Croyde & Georgeham | Bratton Flemming | Bishops Nympton | George & Queen's Nympton | Marwood, Kingsheanton, Prixford, Muddiford & Milltown | Instow, Westleigh & West Yelland | Kings Nympton | Chulmleigh | Witheridge | East Anstey | Ashford | East Down & Arlington |
The One Groups across Northern Devon are also a fantastic source of information and support, and bringing communities together. Make sure to get in touch with them to find out more for your area:
One Ilfracombe - 01271 388280 (Charmain Lovett) - info@oneilfracombe.co.uk
One Barnstaple - 01271 388280 (Ella McCann) - admin@barnstapletowncouncil.gov.uk
One South Molton - 01271 388280 (Cassandra Chan) - info@southmoltontowncouncil.co.uk
Devon Outbreak Management Plan
For more information on Devon's detailed outbreak management plan from Devon County Council visit: https://www.devon.gov.uk/coronavirus-advice-in-devon
Countryside Alliance Rural Hub & NFU Advice
The Countryside Alliance have also launched a Rural Communities Hub, which is a fantastic resource for rural communities to access with help and advice for those of you who may have questions related to the countryside, farming or village life.
The National Farmers Union have launched a Coronavirus hub as well for farmers, sharing advice and information as well as what they are doing to support their members across the country. Click here for more.
Advice for people with animals
The Government have published new advice for people with animals including pets, horses and livestock. Click here to read advice.
The British Horse Society have also published information regarding caring for and exercising horses during the current outbreak. Click here for their advice.
North Devon Council business advice & support
North Devon Council have set up a dedicated website with information for North Devon businesses. Their website is being updated constantly with more information as details of support are filtering down from the Government. If you have any queries regarding business rates or access to grants please go to their website by clicking here to find out more.
North Devon financial hardship
If your income has been affected by the outbreak, please visit North Devon Council’s financial support page. Even if you've never claimed benefits before, don't let your pride or stigma stop you claiming what you're entitled to.
Changes to the system mean it's much easier for self-employed people to claim help too.