Thanks to funding secured through Great Aycliffe and Middridge Partnership, Junction 7 in Newton Aycliffe have successfully supported families across the area during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Junction 7 were successful in applying for and securing two grants through the GAMP Covid-19 Area Budget fund, to help them provide much-needed food, essentials, and support to families across Newton Aycliffe.

Simon Day from Junction 7 said: “We recieved a huge increase in demand for our service since the outbreak, receiving more referrals each week. The funding received helped us greatly in supporting those additional families, that found themselves in need during this difficult time. I would also like to take the opportunity to thank the numerous volunteers who gave their time each week to help support the scheme, without this support we would have struggled to cope with the demand.”

Since the beginning of the pandemic Junction 7 have operated a referral system for food packages out of their base in The ARK at Silverdale Place, where a team of volunteers put packs together and organise their safe distribution and collection.

Brian Riley, Great Aycliffe & Middridge Partnership Coordinator, said, “Junction 7 have provided an invaluable service to local Newton Aycliffe residents during the pandemic crisis. Simon and Jane, and all volunteers connected to Junction 7, have been faultless in their dedication to helping our community’s most vulnerable residents, and their efforts are greatly appreciated by the Great Aycliffe & Middridge Partnership Board.”

For further information on support available in the area please check www.durhamlocate.org.uk or call 03000 260 260