In last week’s update by the SCC and SCD, we indicated that we were meeting by video link on a regular basis to discuss potential areas where we could provide assistance to the community over this period of lockdown. We also mentioned that we were investigating additional areas of coronavirus resilience funding. Using video facilities the SCC and SCD met during the week and have decided to introduce the following additional initiatives :-

  • Using the Royal Mail computer application, the shop will commence to offer parcel posting facilities. This means that as of the middle of next week, residents will be able to take parcels to the shop where they will charge for and arrange postage. In addition the shop will retain a stock of postage stamps for letters. This action will enable us to overcome the recent removal of outreach Post Office services to the village.
  • Following discussions with Highland Home Care (HHC), SCD can offer to provide the use of HHC carers for any vulnerable resident who lose their support as a result of a spouse or family member becoming ill from Covid-19. As this is a short term expedient, it is possible to negate the initial Client requirements assessment (which can take up to 6 weeks) and implement an immediate caring package to suit individual needs. We would stress that this is for short term caring requirements and will not impact the normal the longer term carer provision.
  • A Community Covid Resilience fund has been established to help members of the community who as suffering as a consequence of furloughing, loss of job or being on a zero hours contract. The fund is to be used for the provision of grants or interest free loans depending of specific circumstances. This will not impact on the existing SCCT Hardship Fund. The Community Covid Resilience Fund is a separate fund focused solely on assisting people directly affected as a consequence of the coronavirus and government associated restrictions. However the fund will operate on a similar manner to the SCCT Hardship Fund, but will have a faster response time to applications. All applications will be treated in confidence by a small team from SCC, SCD and SCCT and no personal information on applicants or recipients will be made public. Consequently if you are affected please make initial contact by phoning 07594 305775.
  • It is recognised that during this period obtaining skilled tradesmen in the event of repair work being required. It is therefore intended to contact all local craftsmen and collate a directory of tradesmen / skilled workers within the area that are prepared to respond to emergency calls within the Strathdearn area. When complete, the directory will be posted within the website and a copy kept in the shop in order that it is available for local residents.

The SCD and SCC have applied for several sources of funding to meet with the community needs and we hope to be advised of the outcome of our applications within the coming week. Irrespective, we are progressing with the above initiatives to assist the community needs. If anyone within the community can think of any additional service(s) that the combined efforts of SCD and SCC can deliver please do not hesitate to contact us. In the interim please stay safe and we would remind you to phone 07594 305775 if we can assist you or anyone else in the community in any way.