Coronavirus: Print company offers free assistance cards for those self-isolating in Portsmouth

4PM Print in Commercial Road has joined the army of helpers in the community determined to do their bit to help those in need during the unprecedented times as killer virus Covid-19 spreads its grip across the UK.

The company came up with the idea to offer window and door cards for those in quarantine who may need help from neighbours with tasks such as shopping, collecting medicine or preparing a meal.

The cards have the message ‘self isolating’ at the top with a line below reading ‘assistance required’. At the bottom there is a space for those in need to put their phone numbers so helpers can call them without face-to-face contact.

The reverse of the cards list websites and telephone numbers that might be useful with space to add additional numbers such as their doctors and closest neighbours.

Tim Hurrell, owner of 4PM Print, said: ‘The idea came from seeing someone in self-isolation and a neighbourhood watch scheme where they were putting cards in windows.

‘I felt we could make it better and give something back to people during these tough times.’

The idea has already caught on with organisations such as Age UK and pharmacies, as well as emergency workers, making orders and giving out cards.

Tim said: ‘Hopefully it will help in a small way. We’ve had lots of requests including from emergency responders who have been giving the cards to people.’

He added: ‘Chances are the people who need the cards most are already in isolation, at the very least we don’t suggest they make a trip out to collect them.

‘We are reaching out to family members, neighbours, charities and community groups to order the cards and distribute them accordingly – this is also a good chance to explain to the recipient how to use the card and help them fill in any additional numbers.’

To order your card go to: www.4pm-print.uk/product/coronavirus-window-door-cards/