Greggs, Co-op, tattooists and chippies all help Hadston House get vital supplies to vulnerable people

Since the restrictive measures were imposed to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, the team at Hadston House has stepped up by boosting its meal delivery service to seven days a week.

The meals-on-wheels service is currently delivering to 55 residents, who would be without a nutritious meal if it weren’t for this service, across an area from Amble to Ulgham.

Volunteers have also been collecting prescriptions, delivering medication and getting essential shopping for between 10 and 15 people a day who are either already housebound or who have been urged to stay in for 12 weeks; these numbers are expected to grow in the coming days and weeks.

Managing director Scott Dickinson said: “We have all had to roll our sleeves up this week, but I really want to say a massive thank-you to our staff and volunteers who are working hard to put the needs of vulnerable people first.

“I would also like to thank Greggs, Co-op, local tattooists, fish and chip shops, JT Auto and individual people for their donations and support.

“We can’t hold any activities in the centre, but all our staff immediately put themselves forward – we’ve got youth workers delivering shopping, office staff peeling veg and anyone doing everything to make sure it all gets to those in need.”

The not-for-profit organisation is looking to raise additional funds, given the increased demand and the fact that its community café has had to close, leaving it without that income stream. Visit https://tinyurl.com/syjr9fr

On the Hadston House Facebook page, Kathryn Baxter wrote: ‘I told my aunty and cousin in Hadston about your services. They are so grateful as both not in good health.’

Tom Stewart posted: ‘Well done to the team at Hadston House, you’re doing a great job.’

Coun Dickinson, who also represents the Druridge Bay ward on Northumberland County Council, added: “Seeing what our staff and volunteers are doing makes me extremely proud. I would like to pay tribute to every single one of them for the difference they are making to so many people in these difficult and uncertain times.

“As a team and community, we always go above and beyond. We are lucky to have facilities like this and we are working on finances to ensure the provision throughout this period; people have been so generous via JustGiving and cash donations.”

For more information about Hadston House, visit https://www.hadstonhouse.co.uk or call 01670 761537.