Need advice on coronavirus issues? Harborough MP sets up web page to help answer your questions

Harborough MP Neil O’Brien is doing his bit to fight the coronavirus by setting up a special advice page on his website.

The local MP is being inundated with emails, tweets and Facebook messages from hundreds of constituents worried about the coronavirus pandemic.

Neil told the Harborough Mail: “I’m doing all I can to help and support people here every day of the week.

“I’ve suddenly become an agony aunt to 100,000 people!

“We all know that we are living through an incredibly-challenging time as we all tackle the Covid-19 emergency together.

“So I am delighted to be able to advise and get behind local people where ever I can.”

The Conservative MP’s ‘Coronavirus: local information & advice’ page has kept him busy as his usual daily routine has been turned upside down.

“I’ve not been in to the House of Commons for a couple of weeks.

“We’re supposed to go back in on Tuesday April 21 but I’m not sure if that’s going to happen,” said Neil.

“People have been asking me about government business support schemes, self-employed benefits and financial help available.

“Men and women have been in touch about court orders affecting their kids, one or two have asked about abortions.

“A common question has been workers complaining that social distance measures are not being adhered to in the workplace.

“So I’ve spoken to one or two local companies to ensure they are sticking to the Government’s rules on not getting too close.

“I’ve also received reports about teens hanging out in groups in Kibworth and various other places.”

As well as listing the latest Government advice and how to volunteer, the dad-of-two also catalogues local help contacts, coronavirus groups and food delivery services.

“I’m so impressed with the way that the community right across Harborough district and throughout my constituency has reacted to this massive challenge.

“You could term it ‘social capital’ but in plain English it’s people coming together to look after each other,” said Neil.

“Community groups have sprang up all over the place.

“And this really does highlight the difference between communities in villages and small towns like Market Harborough and cities.

“Self-help schemes in villages like the Langtons are doing an amazing job.

“People are doing their best for the elderly and vulnerable and not just thinking of themselves in these amazingly uncertain times.

“I’m very proud of the people I represent in Market Harborough, Kibworth and our villages.

“They are rising to the challenge brilliantly.”

If you would like to check out the help and advice available on your patch visit Neil’s website at: https://www.neilobrien.org.uk/coronavirusAnd if you would like him to post up your community group or initiative on his site email the MP at: [email protected]