Frozen meal firm teams up with Age UK to deliver meals across Horsham

Around 400 meals are being delivered over the next few weeks to vulnerable meembers of Age UK Horsham who previously attended the Lavina House Club for hot meals and activities.

Age UK Horsham interim chief executive Simon Dowe said: “The team at COOK have stepped up to help, so as well as getting groceries to people’s doorsteps, we’re now able to deliver fully prepared ready meals to some of our clients as well.

“This has been a huge relief to many older people, who have been genuinely worried about getting food during lockdown.

“If you’re not sure who to turn to in this situation, please give us a call, we’re working tirelessly to get essentials out to those in need.”

One of the charity’s clients - ‘Joe’ - made contact with the charity following lockdown as he didn’t have any food in the house.

Joe lives with and cares for his partner who is housebound and had been told by his doctor to isolate.

Age UK offered Joe some of the weekly COOK meals and he was delighted to accept. Joe said: “The meals are excellent, a real treat, we can’t believe how good it is!”

He told the team it meant a lot to him and his partner that people care enough to go out of their way to help them. They were worried they would be trapped in their house worrying about food but now they know help is at hand.

Age UK Horsham District has quickly adapted the way it works in response to the coronavirus pandemic. As well as doorstep deliveries, the charity is offering information and advice, emergency welfare and safety support to the most vulnerable, telephone befriending and wellbeing advice.

It is working in close partnership with colleagues at Age UK West Sussex and Brighton & Hove, Horsham Matters and Horsham District Community Transport.

Anyone who is self-isolating and needs support, or is worried about a friend or family member can contact Age UK Horsham District on 01403 260560 or email: [email protected]

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