A new partnership has been set up to support Sutton Coldfield residents in need during the unprecedented coronavirus public health challenge.

Sutton Coldfield Together has been set up by Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council and Age Concern Birmingham to work with the Sutton Coldfield Charitable Trust voluntary, community and faith organisations across the town

The partnership was established to ensure vulnerable and older people, especially those aged 70 and over can access vital help to get through the challenges now and ahead.

Residents who have been identified by the NHS, as one of the 1.5 million people nationally, with specific underlying health conditions who are at risk of severe illness if they contract the virus will be contacted by the NHS and supported via the arrangements that are being developed by the Birmingham City Council Local Resilience Forum.

Sutton Coldfield Together is working closely with the Sutton Coldfield Charitable Trust, which is ready to get funding to local organisations that are part of the immediate response to support local residents.

Where additional resources are required to support local organisations in their response, the Town Council Community Grant is also available to provide financial support.

Through the website Sutton Coldfield Together website (tiny.cc/suttontogether) vulnerable residents can request support, including help with shopping or non-prescription medical supplies, delivery of food packs and telephone befriending.

Residents interested in getting involved in the town-wide effort can register as a volunteer as well as advise on how to be a good neighbour in a way that keeps everyone safe.

For residents unable to visit the website, Age Concern Birmingham run a phone service to discuss support for themselves or a relative/neighbour. This is available on 0121 362 3650 and is open 09:30-16:00, Monday to Saturday.

Residents can also call St James Church in Mere Green on 07483 829 891 for support, including delivering hot meals, help with shopping, or a friendly chat.

The Town Council office remains available to contact through the mainline telephone number, 0121 663 1765, via email, enquiries@suttoncoldfieldtowncouncil.gov.uk and through our Facebook page and individual Councillors will be active in their wards (subject to their own personal and family constraints)

Councillor Simon Ward (pictured), leader of Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, said: “We are all very aware of the challenges that we will face over the coming weeks but as a united community we can ensure that vulnerable residents are supported in whatever way they need.

“I would urge residents to support the partnership in whatever way they can and ensure the vulnerable contact the team.

“Already we are seeing we are one united Royal Sutton Coldfield community and together we are stronger.”

Katie Hale, president of the Sutton Coldfield Chamber, said: ““It’s a time for businesses to pull together and support one another and their communities.

“We will get through this and it will be easier if we all pull in the same direction. Please think creatively about how you and your business could support the local council and this scheme.”