News from Felixstowe Chamber of Trade & Commerce

There is an incredible amount of work going on at the moment establishing volunteer opportunities for people who want to help vulnerable members of the community at this difficult time. East Suffolk Council has been working with Suffolk County Council in establishing Home But Not Alone, an app and phone line to connect volunteers and vulnerable people.

For more information visit: www.suffolk.gov.uk/council-and-democracy.

Felixstowe Helping Hands is another excellent group which has already secured numerous volunteers, they are working alongside Basics and FACTS, two well established support networks in Felixstowe. If members would like to support them visit their Facebook page and register: www.facebook.com/groups/640348386531100

Chamber Member, Councillor Mark Jepson

Chamber member Barry Garnham from the online radio station Fresh Gold Radio is interviewing local officials and business people, including Chairman Roger Abbott (pictured) during his regular morning slot about the effect of the Coronavirus crisis on local businesses and what help is available.

Roger explained how the Chamber was doing its best to help members wherever it can, with its limited resources, including a regular weekly newsletter for members with as many useful links to relevant Internet sites as possible, and information about other business organisations that were offering assistance. It is also investigating opportunities to organise an online get-together for members.

Roger praised Barry and Fresh Gold Radio and all the other media organisations for maintaining essential local and national information and entertainment for everybody during the current lockdown

Level 2 – Supporting Young People in Felixstowe

Meanwhile, another Chamber member on the frontline helping local Felixstowe families through this difficult period is Level 2, which supports young people across the town.

Project leader Shez Hopkins said the charity’s social workers (who have been designated as key workers) were busy contacting their regular service users with a phone call or message to keep in touch, offer support where possible, or sign posting them to other community support schemes.

You can visit our website at felixstowechamber.co.uk or contact the Chair or the Business Officer by email: info@felixstowe.co.uk.