Families who are concerned about coping in the lead up to and during the Christmas break are being reminded they can call the Dudley borough Covid-19 helpline.

Dudley Council is working with Citizens Advice Dudley, Dudley Council for Voluntary Services (DCVS) and the Black Country Foodbank to offer the service.

During October half term, 143 children were helped through the service, which offers information, advice and support to ensure residents can get essential food and medication, welfare, benefits and debt support services.

Help is available to those who are self-isolating, may be feeling lonely or isolated, are unable to leave their home, or struggling financially due to the pandemic. People can call 0300 3302 152 from Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 12.30pm. Councillor Ruth Buttery, cabinet member for children’s services, said:

"During the October half term we helped the families of 143 children and we know some of our most vulnerable families are now worried about December and the Christmas holidays.

"Covid-19 rates in Dudley borough are high which is why we are working together with our partners to run the Covid-19 helpline, where families and individuals can get much needed advice and support.

"I would like to thank our children and families for their continued resilience and community-minded spirit, which is keeping Dudley together during these difficult times."

Residents and businesses can keep updated on the council’s latest response to the covid-19 crisis at dudley.gov.uk/coronavirus. Details of financial support available to residents impacted by the pandemic can also be found at www.dudley.gov.uk/covidfinancialsupport