Wigan community unites to help each other through crisis

A community network based around a local hub is supporting Wigan residents through the coronavirus crisis.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The organisation has been set up to cover the Aspull, New Springs and Whelley areas and is a partnership between The One House community centre on Haigh Road and the ward’s councillors.

The group has around 30 volunteers who help with shopping and pick up prescriptions for those self-isolating or unable to leave their homes.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The generous helpers also provide a phone service for anyone lonely or needing someone to talk to at this difficult time.

One House and Aspull Domestics in actionOne House and Aspull Domestics in action
One House and Aspull Domestics in action

The group was set up as soon as the coronavirus arrived in the borough and restrictions on people’s movements began to be put in place, with leaflets being delivered across the ward to find out who needed help.

The network is also being supported by Wigan organisation Fur Clemt which uses edible food otherwise destined for landfill, which has donated items along with supermarkets and residents.

Pete Ashcroft, chair of The One House, described Fur Clemt’s backing for the organisation as “marvellous”.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Businesses have also stepped up, with Aspull Domestics providing a freezer for the food which needed to be kept for longer.

The family-run firm is also helping get the deliveries out to those who need it.

Carole Simm, owner of Aspull Domestics, said: “When Chris contacted us, we knew about the fantastic work The One House Community Centre and local councillors and volunteers are doing with everyone is pulling together, so we have not only donated a freezer but also offered our vans and drivers to help with deliveries.”

Coun Chris Ready said: “There is probably a lesson for us all. When we do our shopping for appliances or other things we go further afield or online, but in a crisis, we contact our local businesses who serve our communities.”