Borders MSP welcomes home deliveries of groceries and toiletries for those most at risk from Covid-19

Letters were sent out by former Scottish chief medical officer Catherine Calderwood prior to her resignation on Sunday to those people deemed to be most vulnerable to the virus, also known as Covid-19, offering guidance on staying safe and the support available, now including priority access to home deliveries via a text message service.

Those signing up for that national scheme, launched on Friday by deputy first minister John Swinney, are being offered weekly deliveries of groceries including soup, pasta, rice, fruit, vegetables, tea, coffee and biscuits, as well as toiletries such as soap and toilet roll.

People identified as being at high risk from coronavirus but without access to a mobile phone can register for deliveries via Scottish Borders Council on 0300 100 1800.

That new service has been welcomed by Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale MSP Christine Grahame, saying: “This is the greatest test we’ve faced in a lifetime, and this scheme will ensure those most at risk from coronavirus get the support they need.

“The community spirit shown here in the Borders over the last few weeks has been absolutely amazing, with friends, family and neighbours going that extra mile to look out for one another, but it’s hugely important that everyone who receives a letter, and requires this support, signs up to this service immediately to make sure they are fully stocked with essential items.

“We have to prioritise those most in need, and by continuing to work together, we can ensure everyone in our community remains safe.”

The grocery delivery service will be led by food wholesalers Brakes and Bidfood.

Those identified as being most at risk include organ, bone marrow and stem cell transplant recipients, sufferers of severe respiratory conditions and some cancer sufferers including those undergoing chemotherapy, radical radiotherapy for lung cancer, immunotherapy or other continuing antibody treatments.

Launching the initiative, Mr Swinney said: “These new services are available to those at the highest risk of severe illness from Covid-19 who do not have support structures around them to help.

“This includes people with specific forms of cancer, severe respiratory conditions, certain rare diseases, recipients of organ transplants, those on immunosuppression therapies and pregnant women with congenital heart disease.”