Linlithgow

1. The Linlithgow (public group) Facebook page contains discussion and local information. Additionally, the administrators are accepting relevant posts shared from official NHS/government sources including the Linlithgow Group Medical Practice whose website also contains specific practice information.

2. Rev Dr Liam Fraser has set up the Facebook page Linlithgow Coronavirus Support.

3. Through social media there have been a large number of individual offers of voluntary assistance.

4. Linlithgow Link (set up in 1979) is a voluntary service which provides, through social and community activity, services to those who are isolated by illness, age or infirmity. Linlithgow Link have received many offers of voluntary support, however, not everyone is PVG checked, a process which is currently lengthy.

5. Rev Dr Liam Fraser is leafleting the whole town (using the existing Black Bitch distribution network) with a contact email and telephone number for a "call centre". Those in need of assistance for shopping or even a social chat will be linked to volunteers.

6. OneLinlithgow BID is currently compiling a database of High Street businesses who are setting up home delivery services.

7. Linlithgow Community Development Trust will be maintaining the MyLinlithgow.com website with all current information.  The page includes a form to be completed by those who wish to volunteer.

The Community Council is currently absorbing information.  Clearly the existing voluntary organisations provide a sound foundation of voluntary service; the challenge is to turbo charge the existing provision to meet the inevitable demand and maintain this enthusiasm in the long term.  This against a backdrop of the closure of dedicated community groups and facilities which provide vital social interaction.

John Kelly

Secretary

Linlithgow & Linlithgow Bridge Community Council

01506 843160

John.kelly@llbcc.org.uk