Sheffield mutual aid groups wants to keep helping community after serving up free meals

Beverly Brookes, who works full time as a train running controller, set up the group in Mosborough alongside her husband, Andrew, who works as a porter at the Northern General Hospital, and daughter, Zoe, a second-year nursing student, as well as Zoe’s boyfriend Billy, a carer.

They want to help vulnerable people and those who may need to self-isolate.

Together with the assistance of Councillor Gail Smith, a team of about 30 volunteers has begun helping those in the community most in need – and they want to establish trust with others who may be reluctant to accept help through fear of being scammed.

“We just wanted to do something to try and help,” Beverly said.

“We’ve not had many responses and we are still seeing quite a few old people out shopping, which is a bit worrying.”

The service is completely free to use with people only expected to cover the costs of goods purchased on their behalf, such as food shopping.

A 24-hour hotline has also been set up to aid people around the clock, should they need it.

“There’s someone there even if you just need to speak to someone,” Beverly added.

“We need people to start using it rather than going to do their own shopping. I get the feeling some of them don’t understand the dangers.”

No fewer than 1300 flyers have been printed and distributed to help spread the word about what help is available.

And meals have even been cooked for those who have accepted the good will.

“At the minute we are doing any requests that we can help with,” Beverly said.

“Please put your trust in us. Old people are often told not to trust anyone.”

For peace of mind, those using the service will be given a password alongside their designated volunteer so they can be confident the person is who they claim to be.

For more information, visit the Mosborough Mutual Aid Facebook page or call Beverly on 07824 369200.