Three community hubs set up across the Folkestone & Hythe district to support vulnerable residents during the COVID-19 pandemic remain operational and ready to help those in need.

The hubs – funded by Folkestone & Hythe District Council (F&HDC) – were set up in March to support residents through the first lockdown. With the help of volunteers, they will ensure community help is delivered to those who need it most this time around too.

The hubs are operated by key partners across the district:

·         Three Hills Sports Centre in Folkestone

·         Age UK Hythe and Lyminge in Hythe

·         Romney Marsh Day Centre on Romney Marsh

They identify community need, respond with advice, signpost to services and task friendly volunteers. These hubs provide vital support to local people – including those who are Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (CEV) – who are self-isolating.

Cllr Jenny Hollingsbee, F&HDC Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “We’ve been through this once before and seen how amazing the work of our hubs has been. I’ve been delighted by the positivity and enthusiasm of local organisations and volunteers to help out and make a difference.

“If you can volunteer please do, and if you’re without a local support network then please do reach out. I’ve been so touched by the strength of our community spirit. Let’s all continue to look out for one another.”

The council has set up a dedicated community hub page at folkestone-hythe.gov.uk/community-hubs. Here you can sign up to be a community hub volunteer and also request assistance from the community hub you are without a local support network.

Your local hubs are open from 9am – 4pm. These cannot be visited but can be contacted on:

Ø  Hythe Community Support Hub – run by Age UK Hythe and Lyminge.

Contact them on: covid-19@ageukhl.org.uk or 01303 269602

Ø  Folkestone Community Support Hub – run by Three Hills Sports Centre

Contact them on: covid-19@3hsp.co.uk or 01303 316186

Ø  Romney Marsh Community Support Hub – run by Romney Marsh Day Centre.

Contact them on: covid-19@rmdc.org.uk or 01797 208590

The council has set up a helpline 01303 761116 (open from 9am to 5pm every day) and an email covid-19@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk for COVID-19 queries.

Residents and businesses can find out about help and assistance available to them both locally and get signposted to national support. Residents can also feedback helpful information or concerns about their community or individuals.

For the latest on COVID-19 related matters locally please visit folkestone-hythe.gov.uk/coronavirus

To reach F&HDC about non-COVID-19 issues go online at folkestone-hythe.gov.uk or call 01303 853000 as usual. The council’s Civic Centre is closed to visitors.