I write this update in extraordinary times. Every one of us has seen our lives change overnight, with this fast-moving situation facing countries right around the globe. I am sure that you will share my gratitude and admiration for the dedication of the doctors, nurses, carers, paramedics, police, teachers, shop workers, cleaners, delivery drivers, travel staff, charities, journalists and all those up and down our country who are keeping everyone as safe and informed as possible in the most testing circumstances.
I hope that this email provides you with the latest accurate information and how we in Mitcham and Morden can best support our friends, neighbours and community.
Health Guidance
I understand that there is lots of information on social media and online. Lots of it is factual but some of it fraudulent. For the very latest Government information and guidance, please view the
Government’s support page here. The Government are running a daily news conference at approximately 5pm to provide the very latest update and this link will be updated accordingly.
Do you need help?
Locally, it is in times like this that we see the very best of our community. I have been inundated with people offering their help, support and time for the most vulnerable in our community. Many of us will have friends or neighbours who we are concerned for, but others may have nobody else to turn to.
If you or others require help, please contact Merton Voluntary Service Council by emailing help@mvsc.co.uk or calling 020 8685 2272.
To everyone offering their time and help in any way – we cannot thank you enough. If you would like to volunteer, please email volunteer@mvsc.co.uk.
In the meantime, please continue to look out for your neighbours, consider others when shopping, and follow all of the latest Government guidance for the safety of yourself and others.
Merton Giving
A number of local residents have contacted me offering to help charities and voluntary organisations working to help those most at risk in our community. If you feel like you are able to make a financial donation and you would like to, please visit the Merton Giving site here:
https://www.justgiving.com/mvsc.
Any donations will be used to deliver vital assistance to vulnerable people who are isolated.
Schools
At the time of writing, schools are closed for the majority of pupils. However, the Government has announced a list of key workers in the coronavirus response whose children will still be prioritised for education provision.
The list of key workers can be found in full here. If you have any questions about your child or their school, you should contact the school directly.
Going to work/your business
I appreciate that this is a worrying time for a huge number of local residents with regards to their employment. I wanted to ensure that any helpful information had been sent to those who have not already got in touch with me directly but who may be in need of assistance or support.
If you are a business, the
Government’s support page is available here.
If you are self-employed, the same link will provide guidance as to what support you are currently entitled to.
If you are on furlough, the following link may be helpful:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-what-to-do-if-youre-employed-and-cannot-work
If you cannot find the information or support that you need, please do not hesitate to contact me at anytime at mcdonaghs@parliament.uk
Mortgage Relief
The Chancellor has announced that for those in financial difficulty due to coronavirus, mortgage lenders will offer a three-month mortgage holiday.
The advice is the same given to anyone struggling with mortgage repayments – regardless of the reason: contact your lender. Do this as soon as possible and preferably before missing a payment.
I appreciate that the time ahead brings uncertainty and worry. This is unchartered territory for us all. But it is in times of adversity that our community shows its greatest strength. I have been overwhelmed at the generosity, compassion and kindness shown by friends, neighbours and organisations right across Mitcham and Morden.
If you need me or my team at any time in the coming days and weeks, we will be working harder than ever to do all we can for our constituency and community. If I can be of any help please do not hesitate to contact me at mcdonaghs@parliament.uk.
My best wishes,
Siobhain McDonagh
P.S. I will still be holding a weekly advice surgery by phone for anyone who needs me. Please call 0207 219 4678 to book an appointment.