Wera Hobhouse Praises Compassionate Community Hub

13 August 2020

Wera Hobhouse MP visited the Compassionate Community Hub serving Bath & North East Somerset on Wednesday 29th July to convey her personal thanks to the team that has done so much to support the most vulnerable in our community during the pandemic, after giving a speech in Parliament highlighting the achievements of local organisations.

Wera Hobhouse said:

“The most difficult times often demonstrate the power of people coming together. The creation of the Compassionate Community Hub had an incredible response, with thousands of Bathonians signing up to help vulnerable people in our community. I want to recognise the fantastic work of BaNES 3SG, Virgin Care and Bath and North East Somerset Council in getting it up and running so swiftly. I give my heartfelt thanks to all those who have given their time to help.”

“Some residents have felt isolated and alone; some face financial worries or housing insecurity. Compared with the same time last year, our Citizens Advice Bureau has reported a 34% increase in employment issues and a 200% increase in issues around utilities and communication. Even something as simple as the closure of our local skate park due to lockdown meant that a coping mechanism was no longer available.”

“Local organisations have stopped many of our residents falling through the gaps. For example, Bath Mind has had contact with more than 500 people across Bath and North East Somerset who were not known to it prior to the lockdown. Developing Health & Independence (DHI) has worked with more 2,500 people on GP shielding lists. Many were not previously aware of how to access help. Without those organisations ensuring prevention and early intervention, the cost to the statutory sector would be enormous.”

“I was delighted to nominate BaNES 3SG for £1,500 from Western Power Distribution as part of their ‘In This Together – Community Matters’ funding in recognition of their outstanding efforts during the pandemic.

BaNES 3SG Director James Carlin said:

“The three aims for the Compassionate Community Hub are building community resilience, working collaboratively, and ensuring that the joined-up working we have seen continues and expands. I am so proud of what everyone involved has achieved together. We are very grateful to have our Bath MP’s support and recognition she has given us in Westminster.”