Portsmouth 'will get through' UK lockdown by sticking together

Shoulders across the region will no doubt have slumped when prime minister Boris Johnson announced that the country would be going into lockdown.

But now is the time to rally together, look after our neighbours and hopefully beat this virus for good.

From joining online community groups to simply looking out for those in our streets, there is plenty that can be done to support one another in tough times.

Labour MP for Portsmouth South, Stephen Morgan, said: ‘The way we will beat this pandemic is by working together, not acting alone.

‘As we enter this new period of lockdown, we must all continue to follow the rules and stay at home to bring infection levels back under control.

‘Our local health services are holding, but they are now under serious pressure and it is critically important we all do our bit to support and protect frontline workers. Many of these people are our neighbours, colleagues, family and friends.

‘Portsmouth came through two lockdowns in 2020 by working together. It will do again.’

For those looking to go the extra mile for their community, there are an abundance of volunteering options, such as food banks and support groups.

Acts of Kindness, a group operating in Fareham and Gosport, has a ‘small army’ of volunteers ready to help out at a moment’s notice.

The group has been supporting struggling households by operating a food bank, and also ran a reverse Santa’s grotto initiative at Christmas.

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Founder Kerry Snuggs said: ‘The past nine months have been absolutely relentless, and I know so many people must be struggling with how things are.

‘But going into a third lockdown, we know exactly what we have to do for this to end.

‘Listening to the prime minister and following the advice is one thing, but we’ve got to look out for ourselves and one another.

‘We all have lonely neighbours, of vulnerable friends down the road, who will need our support, and we will get through this.’

Kerry added that taking time for yourself is important, especially when you find that the days are tough.

Above all, we must all remember that we are not alone – all of us are in this together.

If you find yourself struggling, contact a friend or family member. If your mental health deteriorates further, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123.

If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article you can talk to your GP, phone 111 or text SHOUT to 85258.

There is also a list of local services available here.