We Are Bristol Cornavirus Hotline
A dedicated free telephone hotline has been launched in Bristol to help the city’s most vulnerable citizens during the coronavirus pandemic.
The We Are Bristol support phone number – 0800 694 0184 – is now live today and is free to use. It will offer a potential lifeline to isolated and worried residents across the city.
Call handlers will be available from 8.30am-5pm, Monday to Friday and 10am to 2pm Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays to provide support for people with a wide range of needs, including obtaining food supplies, other essential items and medication. They can also help arrange follow-up support with different organisations.
Deaf BSL users can contact the phoneline through a BSL Interpreter using SignVideo.
Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol, said:
“The free hotline is in place to ensure we have a non-digital way for our most vulnerable residents and those at risk to access the help they may need, wherever we can. The coronavirus pandemic means many of us are worried, anxious and need help. Here in Bristol we have volunteers who are waiting to help you – when you most need it.
“Anyone concerned about feeling isolated, getting food, essential items or medicine they need could benefit from the phone line. Even if you simply need someone to walk your dog or a person to talk to once a week. After all, a problem shared is a problem halved.
“Call the We Are Bristol support hotline on 0800 694 0184. Together we are stronger. Together We Are Bristol.”
The line will be answered by up to 30 staff who are all trained to handle calls and refer those with specific needs to the right areas.
There will also be a call back option to limit waiting time during busy periods and ensure everyone who needs help can access it.
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I'm Beth, Life Event Coordinator. Over the past few months, we have been busy with baptisms, weddings and funerals. From small wedding blessings with only a couple and a priest present to large affairs with over 300 guests we feel glad to have supported people during key moments in their lives. I've noticed that life event services need cooperation from the whole team at St. Mary's: Cleaners keeping the church spotless; Clergy and Vergers running a seamless service on the day; talented Musicians providing deeply moving music; the Events team rearranging schedules and tours to fit services in the diary; much admin preparation before the day; careful diligence from our Finance Manager to ensure every penny of donations are sent to families charity of choice. The love and care put in by the team here is apparent to me and hopefully reassures you that St. Mary's will be here for you in both the highlights and hard times that you face. Beth Herbert





