Coronavirus: Emergency food hubs could be launched in Eastbourne to help the vulnerable

Eastbourne Borough Council is supporting the Government proposals for the new network of local hubs.

It is expected the government, supermarkets, and potentially the army will work together to deliver groceries and other essential items to the 1.5 million people who have been sent a letter by the NHS to isolate and shield themselves against coronavirus.

Utilising local supply chains and infrastructure, Eastbourne Borough Council has taken steps to source food supplies that would have normally been used by hotels and restaurants that are now closed.

The list of long-life food includes UHT milk, tinned tomatoes, baked beans, rice, pasta, biscuits and cereals. Packaging has also been secured for any future deliveries.

Council leader councillor David Tutt said, “This is all about putting sensible and prudent local contingency plans in place, in order to address any gaps in the Government scheme.

“The government will be announcing more detailed plans for a UK food distribution network for the most vulnerable and we will support that initiative in whichever way we can.

“I am incredibly proud of the way council employees are responding to this crisis and putting the interests of our residents first and foremost.

“I would also like to thank Councillor Tony Freebody and his group for putting party politics to one side and supporting the council’s collective effort at this most challenging time. We both agree that this is not the time for party politics but for working together to support our local community.”

When the government details its nationwide plans for food distribution, the council says it will be able to share more information on how any deliveries will be coordinated.