Portsmouth FC player Ben Close delivers treat boxes to charity workers to thank them for coronavirus efforts

Portsmouth’s Ben Close assisted a team of volunteers from the club and Pompey in the Community in delivering care packages to surprise Community Integrated Care colleagues, who support hundreds of people who have learning disabilities, autism and mental health concerns across our Hampshire.

The packs, which were purchased by the charity as a much-deserved reward for their dedicated efforts, included confectionery, drinks and snacks and a thank you card.

Ben said: It has been inspiring going out into the community and seeing the work that the carers at Community Integrated Care are doing. It shows that life hasn’t stopped for everyone right now, because these key workers are working twice as hard to help the people who need it most.

‘It gave me a glimpse of how hard they work and to have the opportunity to help them out a little bit was great.’

Portsmouth FC and Pompey in the Community have been helping to co-ordinate and manage deliveries of PPE and other essential items for the charity.

Clare Martin, chief executive of Pompey in the Community, said: ‘We know how vital the services provided by Community Integrated Care are to people across our community.

‘The charity is delivering essential support to those who need it the most in our communities, so we are proud to help play our part in supporting them. I would like to thank all of our volunteers who have worked so tirelessly to assist their inspiring work in these difficult times.’

John Hughes, director of partnerships and communities at Community Integrated Care said: ‘This is a challenging time for the social care sector, so it’s invaluable to have the support of partners, such as Portsmouth Football Club and Pompey in the Community.

‘By taking overseeing our deliveries of PPE and other important and essential items, the club and its charity have lifted pressure and meant that we can continue to give our full focus to the people we support.’

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