Runners and riders go the extra mile to support vulnerable residents
Sports men and women from across Cherwell have united to support their communities by delivering 1,300 prescriptions to self- isolating residents during COVID-19.
The initiative has sought to alleviate pressure on pharmacies by using local athletes as the go-between for patients, delivering much needed medication to those unable to leave their homes. The runners and riders have covered a combined distance of 4,300 miles. That’s the equivalent of running from Cherwell to Turkey and back!
As well as volunteers from cycling, athletic and running clubs in Banbury and Bicester, the Kidlington and the Surrounding Areas community group, KASA, working in partnership with Kidlington Parish Council and Thames Valley Police, have offered a similar programme to help residents who are self-isolating here.
Cllr Andrew McHugh, Cherwell’s lead member for health and wellbeing said: “This impressive scheme goes right to the heart of what community is all about. At times of extreme difficulty, we’ve seen volunteers who have really gone the extra mile, supporting the most vulnerable people in our district by delivering essential medication. I can’t thank them enough for their efforts in taking part in this excellent project.”
The scheme will close in Banbury and Bicester on 31 July, with many shielding residents being able to leave their homes and volunteers returning to work.
In Kidlington, KASA has committed to continuing their work to support the local community. David Cairns from KASA said: “We have supported more than 250 households throughout lockdown, from shopping and prescription collection to allotment tending. We had 140 volunteers, which is now shrinking to 60 or so, but we continue to serve many of those ‘customers’ even though they are able to get out and about.”
Residents requiring extra help in Kidlington can contact KASA on 01865 817722. Further details can be found on Facebook @ KasaKidlington.