Kind Chesterfield sisters to help elderly as coronavirus crisis deepens

Two caring Chesterfield sisters will give up their time to help elderly and vulnerable people who are at greater risk due to coronavirus.
Tim Paget
By Tim Paget
Published 18th Mar 2020, 11:45 BST

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Beth and Katie Atkinson, who both work in retail, have offered to deliver shopping to any elderly residents left housebound during the crisis.

Beth, 25, says they have already had an amazing response from the people of Chesterfield.

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“Our main reason for doing this probably comes back to our respect and love we’ve both always had for our grandparents,” Beth said.

Beth and Katie Atkinson with their grandma.Beth and Katie Atkinson with their grandma.
Beth and Katie Atkinson with their grandma.

MORE: Coronavirus in Derbyshire: confirmed cases, event cancellations and school closures

“When their independence was taken from them in the last year or so of their life we both took on the duty of ensuring they had everything they required.

“They were both people of habit and liked their set routine of shops they’d visit, products they’d buy and the days they would get out.

“So when this was taken we stepped in to help bring back some comfort and normality and that is what I would say is our main driving force for wanting to ensure the elderly and more vulnerable members of the public do not feel alone during this time.”

Beth and Katie Atkinson want to help elderly people in Chesterfield during the coronavirus pandemic.Beth and Katie Atkinson want to help elderly people in Chesterfield during the coronavirus pandemic.
Beth and Katie Atkinson want to help elderly people in Chesterfield during the coronavirus pandemic.

MORE: Chesterfield community group set up to help the vulnerable amid coronavirus pandemic

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Beth said she and Katie, 29, both plan to use the skills they have developed during their careers to help as many people as possible.

“We both work in retail industries so are very much used to dealing with all members of the public on a daily basis, something we both thoroughly enjoy,” she said.

“The company I work for recently announced they would be shutting, to protect their staff and their customers.

“All employees will be receiving full pay so while off I really wanted to do my bit to help the community and those that may be struggling.

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“We live in a world where people can now turn to online shopping to avoid as much human interaction as possible however there are a generation of people out there who either do not have access or can not use these methods.

“We just want to really spread the word that if anyone is in need and requires some help during this time we are absolutely available to do so wherever we can.”

Visit Beth’s Facebook page or email [email protected]

Related topics:ChesterfieldDerbyshireFacebook