With current events unfolding and new developments coming thick and fast, Andy Smith, chairman of the Derbyshire Benevolent Trust, has a message to share with all members.
A few weeks ago I had planned to write a light-hearted article for this Spring news item, probably something involving travel or sports. Things have definitely moved on a bit since then.
The COVID-19 pandemic is without doubt the most widespread and disruptive event that the world has faced in the last 70 years. It is a time where an already stretched and under resourced police service is having to respond to the unprecedented demands.
I appreciate that police officers and police staff are under enormous pressure at the moment. I am sure that there will be times when your patience and professionalism will be sorely tested by those who will not comply with the guidance and by certain elements of the media who seem to have treated Derbyshire quite unfairly, despite your best efforts.
Rest assured that the overwhelming majority of the public support you in your efforts to keep us all safe and are clapping just as hard for you on Thursdays as they are for the NHS and every other key worker.
The Trust has also been working on the challenges that the current situation brings. The Trust Managers are still working but are doing so remotely. If you do need any information, particularly about the insurance scheme, please check the members area of the website in the first instance. The news items on the website are being kept up to date with any new developments and up to date information from the insurance providers. If you are not already in the Group Insurance Scheme then there really is no better time than the present to join.
If you are able to and you want to help out, Derbyshire County Council are looking for volunteers for their Community Response Unit. They are providing a range of services such as, food shopping and delivery. Checking up on people who are isolated with a phone call or online help to prevent loneliness and check whether there is anything they need. Collecting and delivering prescriptions. Preparing meals.
The link to their website is here:
Once again, thank you to all of you for what you are doing to keep Derbyshire safe it is truly appreciated by the residents.
Best wishes to all of you and your families from all at the DBT.
Andy Smith
