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By Ewan Gawne - Local Democracy Reporter

Arbory and Rushen Commissioners are reaching out to keep communities connected throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

 

The authorities, which were set to merger until the  virus hit the Island, are investigating initiatives such as a ‘traffic light’ monitoring scheme in parishes, and need volunteers to make it work.

 

The idea is that a coloured card based on your needs is put up in a window; green signifying ‘all is well, amber for ‘you need assistance’, and red for ‘immediate help’.

 

Both sets of commissioners are also developing partnerships with other organisations to arrange doorstep deliveries of food and other essential provisions.

 

They’ve contacted local suppliers such as the ‘Cooil Bros Ltd’, Colby Spar, Island Seafoods, the Sound cafe and the Shore Pub who are willing to help.

 

The authorities have also asked if volunteers would be willing to ring those who need support once a day to check they’re okay.

 

Arbory and Rushen commissioners have written to ratepayers for feedback on how they can develop what’s on offer.

 

They’ve also issued an appeal for volunteers to help operate the scheme, and are asking any one under the age of 55 to say if they can assist.

 

Through local mental health charity Quing, the two authorities are offering to connect parishioners to free 30-minute appointments via video link with qualified therapists.

 

 

Vice-chair of Arbory Commissioners Jane Glover explains more about what the two authorities are trying to do:

 

 

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