Buckinghamshire Council has provided the following information:
We know that some people find this time of year challenging and after a tough year in general, and this Christmas might be even harder. This is why we want residents who may need it, to know that emergency help and support is available during the festive period. Key contacts are below:
- If someone needs emergency support or help with food and/or energy, they should contact our Helping Hand service using the online form or by calling 01296 531 151. Please note that this service is only available during usual office hours and is closed at weekends and on the public holiday days over Christmas and New Year.
- Anyone in immediate need of food who cannot wait until the next working day when the Helping Hand service is open – and has no other avenue to help – should contact our Emergency Social Work Team on 0800 999 7767. Please note they will not be able to provide food on Christmas Day when the shops are closed, but otherwise can provide immediate help and advice in an emergency.
- If you see anyone sleeping out on the streets of Buckinghamshire, please contact StreetLink online or call 0300 500 0914. They will notify our dedicated Outreach workers. If you see anyone you believe to be under the age of 18 and/or are concerned about the health or welfare of anyone that you see sleeping rough, please call 999.
- Residents who may be finding this time of year challenging or lonely or are experiencing difficulty with their mental health can find help and advice on the NHS Buckinghamshire Taking Therapies webpage.
- Information about additional support can be found on our cost of living webpages.
As Pitstone residents, you can also reach out to our local services:
- Our local foodbank to access food: information and contact details can be found here: https://pitstone.co.uk/localinfo/foodbank/
- The Pitstone Town Lands Charity can help you with a variety of financial support and advice: information and contact details can be found here: https://pitstone.co.uk/localinfo/pitstone-town-lands-charity/