First food parcels delivered to clinically vulnerable people
Written by Defra Press Office
Today, the government has confirmed that packages of food and essential supplies have started arriving at the houses of clinically vulnerable people.
This group consists of those in the high-risk category who have been advised to stay at home and do not have a local network of family and friends to drop off provisions.
The packages contain items such as coffee, tea, pasta, tinned goods, cereal, potatoes, two types of fruit and other basic supplies such as loo roll.
The government has partnered with national food distributors (Brakes and Bidfood) to get these supplies to people’s homes. Packages will be delivered to people’s doorsteps, with all drivers following the latest Public Health England guidance.
Environment Secretary George Eustice said:
“The food and drink industry has shown tremendous resilience in working together to keep food on our shelves and in people’s homes at this difficult time.
“I would like to thank our partners Brakes and Bidfood for everything they are doing to provide this weekly package to the most vulnerable in our society.
“This partnership will sit alongside the work of many retailers, local authorities and the food charity sector to provide a wider offer to those who may be struggling at this time.”
In a joint statement, representatives from Bidfood and Brakes said:
“At a time of national crisis the foodservice industry’s two largest distributors are coming together to work with Defra to create packages of food and essential supplies that will be delivered to vulnerable people as part of the Local Support System.
“In these difficult times, we’re proud to join forces and play such a vital role in supporting people in need during their period of isolation. Together we are experts in food service and our distribution networks reach into every corner of the country. Our highly professional drivers and warehouse teams will be keeping the wheels turning in this vital national endeavour.”
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