As 2020 draws to a close I would like to wish everyone in Basingstoke a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. This year’s celebrations will be different and it’s vital everyone continues to follow the restrictions, to keep our most vulnerable safe and not to give up the critical gains we have made in our corner of Hampshire.
2020 has been a difficult year for all of us, many have foregone wedding celebrations, precious visits with loved ones and the freedoms usually enjoyed as part of day to day living. Reflecting over the last 12 months what stands out for me is the incredible effort our community made to work together, with government funding and the generous support of residents, to provide vital services over the pandemic. Local businesses too not only completely changed their work but also supported their employees and in turn their families during these challenging times. The speed of change to find new ways of working almost overnight was amazing and it is fantastic to see how faced with adversity the strength of community spirit prevails.
The Christmas holidays can be particularly challenging time for resdients who may be at home alone. If any constituents need help or support over the festive period Hampshire County Council’s Connect to Support website provides a one-stop-shop of helpful guidance ranging from helplines open over the festive period, to advice on keeping your home warm. The Hampshire Coronavirus Support and Helpline can offer advice, information and support to anyone in need including if they are unwell from Covid-19 or self-isolating. Call 0333 370 4000 (calls charged at local rate).
As we look forward to 2021, with optimism and hope I want to thank every resident of Basingstoke for their efforts to help stop the spread of the virus to protect and cherish those who are more vulnerable in society and to ensure our NHS can be there for everyone.
- Maria