Emergency NOISE June 2020       Corona Virus Update: 3rd June 2020

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Dear Friend. We hope that you are keeping safe and well. Although our office is still closed, some staff are undertaking key tasks and our fantastic team of volunteers continues to to keep in contact with our vulnerable service users.

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• For emergency support, telephone the Local Authority on 01670 536400​

• For help with things like transport to your GP, essential shopping, etc., please call the Northumberland Community Response team on 01670 620015

• If your matter is not urgent and someone is already contacting you (e.g. as part of a group or you already have someone assigned to you) please contact them

• If you do not already have someone contacting you and would like us to arrange this, please email Barry Frost at barry.frost@ncba.org.uk

Our ring around service is managed and delivered by about 50 volunteers. A big 'Thank you' to them all, and to our partners including Lions, HealthWatch, Age UK, Alzheimers Society, and NCC (including several councillors). We're pleased to say that we've matched all of our clients with a phone to a named volunteer or group, and all have been called . We continue to receive very positive feedback.

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The first week of June is National Volunteer Week, and Julie Boyack wishes to thank all our volunteers, not just now, but for all their doing to support our clients during these times. 

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Please look after yourself and make sure you follow the Government Advice. We will be back as soon as we are able to. From the Team at Northumberland County Blind Association

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In the mean time, please check out the following:

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'Sunflower Lanyard Scheme': "A discreet way for people with hidden disabilities to show they need extra support or just a little more time"

https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/

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You may also find the following contacts useful:

• RNIB 0303 123 9999

• Gateshead sight service: 0191 4785959

• Calibre audio: 01296 432 339

• Optima Low Vision Services: 01803 864218 sales@optimalowvision.co.uk

• Optelec Enhanced Vision: 080 80908090

• Cobolt Systems: 01493 700172 sales@cobolt.co.uk

• Northumberland community response hub: 01670 620015 (9-6 x7)

• Guide dogs Newcastle: 0345 1430220 www.guidedogs.otg.uk/covid19

• BID Services: 01670 293150

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Keep safe!