As the CORONA-19 Pandemic Lock-Down is implemented, we will share the experiences of our Conservative Councillors across Cheshire East, exploring how they are engaging with the residents and Communities they represent, to help and support each other through this extraordinary period.
The four Poynton Councillors Jos Saunders, Nicky Wylie, Mike Beanland and Mike Sewart reflect on the first week of the lock-down.
"Well it's now day 6 of the Lock Down and we want to share what we have experienced in Poynton. The world has certainly changed, but our roles as Councillors have not - we remain utterly committed to supporting all of the residents of Poynton.
We are not only Cheshire East Councillors, we are also privileged to be Poynton Town Councillors as well. Poynton Town Council and its Civic Hall, is the “go to “ place for our residents when there are difficulties, be it the floods of last year, or the challenges of the Corona Virus that we are currently facing.
It is therefore not surprising that as soon as it became apparent that our residents would potentially be facing difficulties, a leaflet drop to every house in Poynton was organised. This outlined the help that was available and the commitment we were making to signpost residents for help/advice. For those needing assistance, we co ordinated support with our volunteer partners, Churches Together , U3a and Poynton Runners and whilst this was very early days, the system was working well.
However, the introduction of the Lock Down meant that the world changed again. We realised that support needed to be even more localised and thus Poynton Street Champions was born.
Poynton was divided into smaller localities of around 50 houses. Our areas are the ones in which we live and as far as possible we have tried to do the same for all of our residents who have volunteered as Champions for the scheme.
Each Champion has completed a letter drop, which introduces them and outlines the fact that they are setting up a group to help vulnerable residents. It asks if they need help, or wish to help others. This help can include walking a dog, shopping or picking up prescriptions. The Champion also sets up a Whats App group, which it invites the residents to join. This group will enable us to keep in touch, give out information quickly and also do what Poynton does best - support each other!
These are tremendously difficult times, and all of us are affected in different ways. Nicky is currently recovering from the Virus and has shared her experiences which has been enormously constructive. Jos's household has grown from 2 to 4 residents as her daughter and partner have moved in for the period of the Lock Down. Yet, this is also a period where we can make sure that all of our Communities become even more cohesive, by caring and supporting each other.
Finally we would like to say that all of us can help by following Government advice; STAY AT HOME. PROTECT THE NHS, SAVE LIVES.
