Grampian Coronavirus (COVID-19) Assistance Hub launched

30 March 2020

A new website and phoneline was launched today, providing people all across Grampian with information on how to access social, practical and emotional support on Coronavirus (COVID-19).

The new Assistance Hub pulls together links to the latest advice from a range of partners including all three local authorities, Police, Health, Red Cross, volunteers and community information. It is a site for anyone in Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray, with information for residents and businesses alike.

The phoneline is 0808 196 3384 (8am-8pm 7 days a week). The number will complement other helplines, including Aberdeen City Council’s Crisis Support Line, which was launched last week and can be reached directly on 0800 0304 713.

The website is full of links with up-to-date information. The main objective is as a focal point for information and assistance for anyone affected by coronavirus anywhere in Grampian. It is also a way for residents to offer their support which they can safely deliver in their communities. Staff are on the phone to provide callers with up to date information, or to link them up with the right person who can quickly answer questions.

Another important feature is that the site can be used to request help on behalf of someone else, allowing friends and neighbours to signpost to someone in need.

Amanda Croft is the Chief Executive of NHS Grampian and is chair of the Grampian Local Resilience Partnership, which set up the new Assistance Hub.

She said: “These are unprecedented times for people across Grampian and the community resilience we are seeing is outstanding. Partner agencies who are providing first line care for people came together (virtually) and as a result we have, together, established a single source of support.

"The main aim of the website and phoneline is to allow people to reach out for help, as well as providing a way for people to offer their help safely in their own communities.

“In a pandemic, we know that people feel isolated and scared, and I am hopeful that they will see this virtual Assistance Hub as somewhere they can go to get the help they need.”

The site and phoneline have been set up in partnership between members of the Local Resilience Partnership, principally: Aberdeen City Council; Aberdeenshire Council; The Moray Council; NHS Grampian; Police Scotland; Scottish Fire & Rescue Service; Scottish Ambulance Service; HM Coastguard; SEPA; MOD; and SSEN.