Crossroads’ core services are continuing to provide care in the community throughout the coronavirus outbreak.

Staff from the local charity are continuing to provide support to carers across the island, delivering normal care at home services to carers a much needed break from their caring responsibilities.

Staff members are also helping with additional tasks including the collection of medicines and food.

Staff have also gone the extra mile for children who are missing out on their usual Easter activities. Young carers across the island have been receiving Easter eggs kindly donated by Quilter International and other items donated by WHSmith.

Children with complex care needs who usually attend Crossroads’ holiday scheme have also received activity packs which include Easter crafts and games that they can do at home.

Crossroads’ nursery remains operational and has opened its doors to the children of key workers.

Whilst the charity shops have had to close their doors, the team are still working behind the scenes sorting through stock and donations, and giving the walls a lick of paint in anticipation of welcoming back their customers.

Crossroads have had to stop some of its services during the pandemic due to the closure of all adult learning disability facilities across the island, but are continuing to help wherever possible and have redeployed staff members to help those most in need.

The charity has also launched a dedicated Covid-19 phone number and email address to act as a temporary helpline for carers.

The carers advice helpline has been put in place to answer any questions or concerns carers may have, and can also signpost them to other services that can help.

Crossroads’ chief executive Jackie Betteridge has said: ’Caring can be difficult at the best of times, and during times like this we must come together as a community and support those who need a little bit of extra help.

’We hope that the carers advice helpline can offer carers some advice and reassurance throughout this uncertain time and our team will do everything they can do ensure carers can continue caring.’

To access the helpline carers can call 202197 or email [email protected].

Mrs Betteridge added: ’I am very proud of how our staff have dealt with the changes we have had to make to our organisation, and how they continue to go the extra mile to help our local carers.’

For information and updates on Crossroads services visit www.crossroadsiom.org or its Facebook page.