Citylife Line still offering essential support across Newcastle

Prime Minister Boris Johnson imposed a lockdown across England this week in an attempt to tackle rising infection rates in the nation.

It means residents are once again instructed to stay at home except for essential reasons, including shopping for essentials and seeking medical attention.

During the first national lockdown in March 2020, Newcastle City Council implemented its Citylife Line service to provide residents with support if they were struggling to cope with the physical and emotional barriers presented by the strict measures.

Since then, nearly 4,000 have contacted Citylife Line, managed by the council’s Welfare and Wellbeing team, and the local authority is making sure communities across the city are aware of the offer during the latest lockdown period.

Cllr Nick Forbes, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “We are all well aware of the difficulties that a lockdown brings but our message to residents is that you do not need to suffer in silence.

“The response of our communities and voluntary sector has been one of the shining lights of the pandemic, demonstrating everything that is good about our city. Citylife Line can signpost to those services available or offer support directly.

“Whether you need help self-isolating, are clinically extremely vulnerable and require advice, or just feel you could do with some extra help, Citylife Line is there to help if needed.”

Residents should always seek help from their friends, family and community first, and use online resources to contact support services directly. Where this is not possible, the Welfare and Wellbeing team can help.

Lisa Goodwin, Chief Executive of Connected Voice

“Voluntary and community organisations across the City have provided an outstanding level of support to local people throughout this pandemic.

“Their work has never been more important or more needed. I am really proud to say that as well as helping the ever-increasing numbers of people contacting them directly, they are there ‘behind the scenes’ ready to support residents who call City Lifeline.”

The team can talk you through how long to isolate for, and what you can and cannot do if you are clinically extremely vulnerable. They can match you to a volunteer to do your shopping, walk your dog, or phone you to check you’re doing okay. The team can signpost you to food banks who can help you with free or low cost food, and in an emergency, may be able to provide a food parcel. They can also refer you to the council’s finance teams who can offer advice and support around debt, budgeting, benefits and other financial issues.

To get support, please complete this online form or visit www.newcastle.gov.uk/welfare. Alternatively, call 0800 170 7001 and someone can complete the form on your behalf. 

The team works Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm and Saturday from 9am – 3pm. Those requiring immediate support, will be contacted by telephone on the same day (except Sundays). For all other requests, you will be contacted within 36 hours.