We are Islington helpline reaches landmark 10,000th contact

Since the start of lockdown, We Are Islington, which is run by Islington Council, has been helping vulnerable and self-isolating residents affected by the virus by facilitating support.

The helpline is run in partnership with local charities, community groups, and mutual aid groups and has been open every day since Saturday, March 21.

We are Islington has helped residents in need by, example, supplying food and medicine drops, giving practical advice, and simply by providing a friendly conversation to those experiencing loneliness during these challenging times.

It is run by a team of volunteers and council staff who, having changed from their usual day-to-day work to lend a hand during the coronavirus pandemic, have been working tirelessly to help those in need.

We are Islington has so far helped more than 2,000 local people in need of food, nearly 500 asking for medicine, and around 700 in need of financial support.

In addition, around 150 requests for wellbeing support have been made to the helpline, which has also helped with four reports of domestic violence.

Cllr Una O’Halloran, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Community Development, said: “It’s hard to put into words how proud I am of the enormous community effort that has gone into supporting our most vulnerable residents through the We are Islington helpline and many other fantastic local projects.

“This has been an extremely challenging time for people across our borough, and I would like to thank each and every volunteer and organisation that has selflessly stepped forward to help those most in need.

“The fact that We are Islington has helped in more than 10,000 cases reflects the huge effort that has gone into supporting local people during this crisis.

“Our commitment to helping the vulnerable is as strong as ever – if you or anyone you know needs help or support at this difficult time, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the We are Islington helpline.”

The We are Islington helpline is available every day, including weekends, on 020 7527 8222 from 9am to 5pm. Local people can also access support by emailing weareislington@islington.gov.uk. People with hearing or speech difficulties can use the Minicom line on 020 7527 1900. You can find out more about We Are Islington on our website.

Those interested in assisting with Islington’s volunteer efforts can get in touch with a local organisation, simply go to the Voluntary Action Islington website and search “COVID19”, or email volunteer@vai.org.uk

The Islington Giving Crisis Fund, which is being run by the local charity Islington Giving, is also taking donations, with every penny received going to support people who are isolated, anxious and in need of financial support during the public health crisis.  If you would like to help and are able to, you can donate to Islington Giving.  

Cllr O'Halloran added: "Islington Giving is a vital fund helping local people, and we'd be so grateful to anyone who can give any donation, large or small - it will all go to support local people in need."