Hemel woman launches group to run errands and provide goods for people self-isolating during coronavirus crisis

A woman from Hemel Hempstead has set up a group on Facebook to help those self-isolating in Hemel Hempstead due to the coronavirus has thanked the public for their support.

Lauren Sumner set up Hemel Helpers - Covid-19 Pandemic on Facebook with Toni Smith and Holly Woollard to help provide goods and run errands for those stuck at home.

Lauren said: "Holly posted in the Hemel group about starting a group to help people. I said I knew how to set up a group and Toni commented saying she wanted to help, so we decided to set up Hemel Helpers - COVID-19 Pandemic.

"The support we have received from the public has been great and we have over 3,000 members in the group already.

"We have been overwhelmed by the support from the Hemel Hempstead community, people want to help in any way that they can.

"We can drop off of food, offer an uplifting chat, someone can water those roses in that tub in your front garden, a letter or bill you desperately need sorting and can't get out, whatever it is that's stressing you out during your time of isolation, do not bottle it up, tell the Hemel Helpers and we will see what we can do to help, because no one should go through this alone.

"The government are doing all they can to help our country with financial aid and health services, but let's see what we can do as a community to take care of the little things for our neighbours in need and take the pressure off main services where possible."

Residents can join the group if they wish to volunteer their time to run errands, or if they are self-isolating and need help.

The group have also set up Leighton-Linslade Helpers in Leighton Buzzard.