1. November 2020.

OAKMERE LIBRARY LOCKDOWN 2 ARRANGEMENTS

We are open only for returns, collection of Ready Reads packs, reservations and pre-booked computer use.

Our Ready Reads collecting times are:

  • Monday – 1pm-5pm    
  • Tuesday – 10am-5pm    
  • Wednesday – closed    
  • Thursday – 10am-5pm
  • Friday – 1pm-5pm
  • Saturday – 10am-2pm 
  • Sunday – closed.

You can also get stuck in to our brilliant ebooks and audiobooks and read your favourite magazines and newspapers online.

Further information is available via www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/services/libraries

2. NOVEMBER 2020

COMMUNITIES 1ST COVID UPDATE

 

Compassionate Community Connector Programme

Communities 1st, in partnership with Hertsmere Borough Council and a range of local charities, community groups and businesses in aid of supporting our local community amid the COVID-19 outbreak.  We focus on providing much needed practical support to anyone that requires help during these challenging times.

We recognise that whilst COVID-19 may affect everyone, there are some people who are at greater risk than others.  Our team of volunteers can help you with:

  • Shopping
  • Collection of prescriptions
  • Dog walking/Pet sitting
  • Signposting you to other services
  • Walking Buddy
  • Or a friendly conversation if you’re feeling lonely.

To access support:     020 8207 5115   help@communities1st.org.uk

                         www.communities1st.org.uk/covid19support

If you would like to volunteer, there are a range of opportunities (socially distanced of course) that you can get involved in.  These range from call handlers, to drivers, digital champions, befrienders, project facilitators, welfare check/survey callers, face mask makers and handyperson assistants. 

To volunteer visit www.communities1st.org.uk/COVID-19-community-signup or email volunteer@communities1st.org.uk and one of our friendly volunteers will give you a call to discuss the opportunity(ies) you might be interested in.

3. NOVEMBER 2020

NEW HOME FOR HERTS ABILITY (see page 12 of Winter Edition)

We’ve moved! Wonderful news! Herts Ability has found a new home!

The Welwyn Garden City based charity, a fully accredited member of Driving Mobility working closely with associated national organisations, offers various vehicle-related assessments for all drivers.

After a long search for suitable premises and with the support of the local Council and the Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP, Herts Ability is pleased to announce that they have moved from the Woodside Centre to the Weltech Business Centre, just off of the Ridgeway in Welwyn Garden City.

The Business Centre offers modern business units and facilities to allow the charity to continue driving and mobility-scooter assessments and, with a grant received from Hertfordshire County Council, re-open their popular seating assessment clinics in 2021. At these clinics, older and disabled people receive full clinical evaluation and advice on the most beneficial seating and help with purchases to allow them to live in their own homes independently.

Nigel Dotchin, Chair of Trustees said “We are delighted. Eight months ago we were dealing with lockdown, a search for new premises and the closure of our Equipment Centre. With the new premises we will be able to continue to provide help and advice to older and disabled people across the county and look at expanding the services we offer.

 If you would like to get involved in the charity, as a trustee, a fundraiser or with suggestions on services we could provide, we would love to hear from you! New address is Unit 2, Weltech Centre, Ridgway, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 2AA. 01707 384263 www.hertsability.org.uk