Thousands of food parcels have been distributed to the elderly and needy across the constituency while online and bespoke support services have also been rolled out to safeguard people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Established to create a united community-based response against Coronavirus, the Taskforce has connected numerous local groups, networks and organisations to each other and vulnerable residents needing support across Erdington. An Emergency Assets Register has also been created which contains the contact details of the dozens of groups who are co-ordinating and delivering services to those being adversely affected by the pandemic.

As well as distributing food and household supplies, volunteers have been submitting and collecting medical prescriptions for people and providing befriending support, advice and guidance with telephone calls and via social media platforms.

Witton Lodge Community Association is working in conjunction with the Erdington COVID-19 Taskforce. Its Chief Officer, Afzal Hussain, said combining resources and expertise was having a positive effect.

“Whilst there is still more to do we are having a positive impact by ensuring our vulnerable residents and communities get the help and support they desperately they need during these unprecedented times,” he said.

“The Taskforce is focused on delivering proactive and reactive solutions where the need is greatest. Member organisations have been committed and resilient in collaborating and co-ordinating the kind of support and activities which people need to be safe and healthy.”

Erdington MP Jack Dromey commented: “The Erdington Taskforce is community at its best. Nearly 40 organisations coming together to ensure no one goes hungry, no one endures isolation and that everyone has a friend that they can turn to in these desperate times.

“Birmingham and Britain is being hit hard by this terrible virus but we are determined to emerge in future a stronger community, precisely because we have stood together in the here and now.”