Thirty-six local Nottingham charities and organisations have actively coordinated to release a multi-agency call to respond to the Coronavirus pandemic. So far across the United Kingdom 137 people have died and more than 2,600 infected. Muslim Hands has taken the lead in partnering with the people of Nottingham, County Councils, Nottingham Citizens, the Local Resilience Forum and Emergency Planning, foodbank providers and various faith networks on building a picture of the local situation so that partners are in a strong position to help in the most effective way possible. Areas of support in Nottingham for the vulnerable who are classified as the elderly or those self-isolating, include a helpline for further information and safe, accessible food pick-up and drop off points. Further meetings have been arranged in the coming weeks in order to get the project implemented as soon as possible as well as looking at how other cities in the surrounding area such as Birmingham and Leicester can also be supported. To get involved or find out more about Muslim Hands and the work we do visit our website muslimhands.org.uk or call 0115 9117222.
Shakil Sidat, Muslim Hands Programmes Director, said:
‘We are proud to be working with such hard-working and dedicated organisations in Nottingham. There has never been a greater need for a sense of togetherness and to provide our own communities with the support and assistance they require in such uncertain times. By working together and having the specialist knowledge in our specific areas we can ensure that we reach more people and do as much as we can so that those that have been affected by the pandemic are not left to suffer in silence’.
Councillor Sajid Mohammed for Mapperley and Director of Himmah, said:
‘In this time of national crisis it is very important that everyone in the city of Nottingham works together to support those in need. In a moment where all our actions have a consequence for our community, it is vital that all organisations work strategically to deliver services to everyone regardless of ethnicity or religious background. Himmah is happy to be joining this alliance to serve the people of Nottingham’.
Pete Rogers, Community Organiser, Nottingham Citizens (Citizens UK), said:
‘Our local alliance brings together 36 civic organisations from education, faith, union and other third sector groups. It’s these diverse relationships that will be crucial in the coming days as we unite in order to meet the needs of our city. At a time of fear and uncertainty it’s important we come together and be a practical voice and presence for hope and togetherness. Already we’ve seen a huge outpouring of good will and creative ideas – our alliance is ready to join with others to do what’s needed over the coming months’.