It is now nearly two weeks since the country entered a “lock down” situation and three weeks since the Community Council and Strathdearn Development Company started making arrangements to support community needs over the period of the pandemic. Unfortunately some of the decisions have been regrettable but necessary – closing the new Strathdearn Hall, postponing the opening of the restaurant and furloughing staff. However on a positive note we have managed to:
- Maintain the community shop, albeit on reduced opening hours (due to restricted supplier deliveries and to protect staff members);
- Establish an emergency phone contact to support vulnerable people and answer any queries on local arrangements;
- Offer home delivery of groceries to people who are self-isolating, vulnerable or lack transport;
- Provide credit facilities at the shop to those who cannot access funds;
- Provide transport to individuals with specific needs;
- Communicate with our Highland Councillors to ensure that the needs of Strathdearn are recognised, and
- Maintain regular communication with the community through direct contact, Facebook and our Website
In addition we have applied through Highlands and Islands Enterprise for government grant funding to, amongst other things, establish a hardship fund in order to help anyone who is disadvantaged as a result of being furloughed or finds themselves unable to meet with everyday demands. We are also looking at any other source of grant funding that we can apply for on behalf of the community.
In addition to thanking our hard working staff, we are also grateful that local businesses have stepped up to help – Good Highland Foods and Tomatin Glamping Pods have both offered and provided assistance so far.
However we recognise that there are those in the community that require more and we would like to hear from you to see what we can do to help, whatever the situation. All calls will be treated in confidence so please do not hesitate to contact us on 07594 305775.
