Last updated 14/06/2024.
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Applecross community formed the Applecross Community Support Group. This was a collaboration of the Applecross Healthcare Association, Applecross Trust, Applecross Community Council and Applecross Community Company.
Our community support was made possible with funding from the North Highland Initiative, the Applecross Trust, Community Land Scotland, Scottish Government Supporting Communities Fund and by Foundation Scotland from the Recovery Fund.
The Applecross Community Support Group aimed to help all Applecross* residents.
*Applecross area is defined to the Applecross Trust boundaries.
Support that was made available included:
Food and shopping
Food Box Fund
Food Box support was available to Applecross* residents who were experiencing genuine hardship as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. The project was funded by Foundation Scotland from the Response Fund and the Communities Recovery Fund from the Scottish Government and is delivered in partnership with the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).
Meals on wheels
Meals-on-wheels was available every Wednesday for anyone over 65 who would like a two course lunch, delivered by the community car scheme (from the Lunch Club).
Shopping delivery/pick-up
Help with technology
Prescription delivery
The South West Ross Community Car Scheme was able to deliver prescription medicines from the Applecross GP Surgery.
Someone to talk to
Self-isolating can be very lonely. We have volunteers who are happy to pick up the phone and talk. Maybe you just want a chat, or you need some help with practical or emotional issues. Get in touch and we will help. This support is strictly confidential.
You can also phone Samaritans for free at any time of day: 116 123.
Mental health support:
Clear Your Head
SAMH
Applecross GP – phone 744252
Many of us struggle with our mental health at this time of year. It’s ok if you’re finding the winter months, and the idea of Christmas and the holidays hard.
While we can’t control many of the challenges around us, there are still things you can do to look after your mental health and wellbeing. Talking about mental health is a great way to protect and improve it.
– SAMH
Compost and seeds
Compost and seed potatoes were provided for the community. The community seed bank is now located in front of the shed at the Appleseed Allotments and continues to provide free seeds for your home garden. Advice for growing food at home is available in workshops with the Appleseed Allotments.
Community Fund
The group established this confidential fund to help Applecross* residents who are in immediate need as a result of the Covid-19 Pandemic. The fund was to help with basic household expenses and to ensure anyone who has lost their primary income recently had access to funds swiftly.
Support that was available from other sources included:
Highland Council
Free Highland Council Helpline 0300 303 1362 for advice on volunteering, or getting help with food, welfare or business support.
Worrying about Money?
Advice and guidance, changes to key services, and updates for businesses on the Highland Council website
Council tax reduction
Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), e.g. face masks
Phase 3 – Face coverings (Scottish Government)
When and how to use masks (World Health Organisation)
Loss of income
February 2021
Highland Council Discretionary Business Grant
Mobile and Home Based Close Contact Services Fund
Newly Self-employed Hardship Fund
January 2021
Highland Council Covid-19 Self-catering Business Grant
Highland Council Strategic Framework Business Fund (for businesses that have had to temporarily close)
Covid-19 Small Business Grant
Information on housing benefit and council tax reduction
You may also contact the Highland Council Welfare Support Team on 0800 090 1004 or email Welfare.support@highland.gov.uk
If you are self-employed and eligible for assistance HMRC will contact you.
If you have lost your employment and have savings of less than £16,000 you may also apply for Universal Credit
Mental health support
Clear Your Head
SAMH
Applecross GP – please phone 744252
Further information about Covid-19
Citizens Advice Bureau
Scottish Government
NHS Inform
NHS Highland
NHS 24
