Derbyshire County Council's leader has this message for staff affected by the coronavirus crisis

Council staff have been going the extra mile – often on top of their day job – to ensure those at most risk are supported and cared for.

Teams in the Community Response Hub are delivering food parcels and medication to shielded residents and volunteered to work extra hours in care homes.

They are also keeping fleet vehicles up and running, keeping our country parks maintained and making sure supplies of personal protective equipment are delivered to staff who need it to do their jobs.

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Councillor Barry Lewis said: “I am truly humbled by the many, many examples of our staff who are working incredibly hard to make sure we continue to deliver vital services to our communities across Derbyshire.

“All of our staff have had to adapt to new ways of working and I’d like to thank them for their flexibility and resilience in rising to this challenge. But there are also many staff who have gone the extra mile and I am in awe of their dedication.

“This is an unprecedented situation and we are doing everything we can to support the people of Derbyshire. It has never been more important for us to come together, to work with other agencies and colleagues in district and boroughs to support each other to provide the support and care that people need during this time. Together we will get through this.”

One member of staff who has offered to help during the coronavirus outbreak is social worker Danielle Green, who is temporarily working shifts at Beechcroft Care Home in West Hallam as a carer.

She is now providing hands-on support including personal care, help with dressing, eating and drinking – all while wearing full PPE which is provided to all staff who require it to stay safe in line with government guidelines.

Danielle said: “Doing this has given me the opportunity to help both colleagues and clients and feel like I am contributing during a difficult time.”