Food parcels to support Gravesham's vulnerable during the coronavirus lockdown have started being distributed across the borough.

There are two support schemes running in parallel, with a clear distinction between the services.

Those who received a letter from the NHS advising them to self-isolate for 12 weeks, and who indicated they needed essential supplies, are having a food parcel delivered directly by the government via national distributors.

Locally – and together with the north west Kent voluntary sector and community partners – Gravesham council is supporting those who fall outside that category but have no support network or are facing exceptional hardship.

Those most in need, and anyone concerned about vulnerable members of the Gravesham community, can contact the council here.

This is an emergency service for those most in need and people are being asked to respect that and use it responsibly.

The council is working to produce its own basic food parcels for these emergency cases.

Council spokesman Andy Rayfield said: "We are extremely grateful to all those who responded to our call for volunteers and who have been helping the vulnerable in our community by picking up prescriptions and collecting shopping.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank those who put their names forward but have yet to hear from us.

"They can rest assured their details have been recorded and we will call on them as and when we need additional support."

For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here.

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