Here2Help is a countywide campaign and community response to provide help and support to vulnerable people and families affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. It is led and coordinated by Worcestershire County Council, supported by a growing network of individuals, groups and organisations across the county.

It was launched at the start of the pandemic, initially to help vulnerable households who may be self-isolating to access food and medicine – particularly where they don’t have available family, friends and neighbours to support them. Increasingly the campaign is also responding to the secondary impact of the pandemic, which in the context of children, young people and families includes issues where:

• The financial situation in a household has changed and parents are struggling to be able to feed their family;
• Parents might be struggling to cope without their usual support networks, to help look after children and keep them entertained (particularly where there may have already been challenging behaviour);
• The isolation and loneliness, accompanied by other issues, are bringing increasing stress and anxiety for children, young people and parents.

The Here2Help website has a growing number of resources, including helping families entertain and educate their children, support their mental health, and maintain their wellbeing at home:

• http://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/here2help

People can ask for help by completing the short online form on their website, or by calling this number: 01905 768053 which is open Monday - Thursday 9am - 5pm and Friday 9am - 4.30pm.

People, groups and organisations can also offer help by completing an online form on their website as well. 

Useful websites:

Here2Help: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/here2help

Starting Well: https://www.hacw.nhs.uk/starting-well

SEND Local Offer: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/send