PEOPLE who cannot go shopping through self-isolation or vulnerable because of coronavirus can now book priority supermarket delivery slots.

This is just one of the support measures still in place for local people who require additional help accessing food deliveries due to the ongoing pandemic and who are able to pay.

Other options include:

  • Applying for a priority supermarket delivery slot by calling Wirral’s Coronavirus helpline on 666 5050 or by completing a short online application.
  • Slots are available from Iceland and Tesco. The helpline can also advise on assistance that may be available from Age UK Wirral for anyone digitally excluded.
  • The shopping collection service by Age UK Wirral, to help people aged 60+ with their shopping needs.
  • Shop Assist by Rapid Response North West can also help with essential shopping. Apply online or call 0800 009 6573 (Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm) if you would like some help with the form. Support workers, support agency staff and friends and family can make an application on behalf of someone else.
  • Wirral Infobank - an online resource for local support and services, including help with shopping, social supermarkets (offering cut price food) and hot food deliveries.

Anyone requiring crisis food support and who cannot pay for the food they need can apply for an emergency food parcel by calling the Coronavirus helpline on 0151 666 5050.

Applicants will be asked a few questions to determine their eligibility and, if successful, will be given a unique code that can be exchanged for a food parcel from Wirral Foodbank.

A number of other local organisations is also helping provide advice and assistance and can help you apply for food support, including, Citizens Advice Wirral, Involve Northwest and Wirral Advisory Centre.

Wirral council cabinet member, Cllr Janette Williamson said: "We have supported tens of thousands of residents through the health emergency and are continuing to help those who need it.

"Priority supermarket delivery slots provide a safe and convenient way of shopping for anyone self-isolating or vulnerable because of the recent increase in infections.

"I would therefore urge anyone in that position to get in touch if they are worried about getting the food they need."

Financial help with food for those most in need is still available from the council for those with specific food needs due to a medical or health condition and/or religious or cultural requirement by calling the Coronavirus Helpline on 0151 666 5050 or by applying online.