Poole hospice awarded free security kit during Covid 19 lockdown

Local hospice, Lewis-Manning has been awarded a free security kit to help secure their new premise. The award was made during the Covid-19 lockdown and was part of an initiative by the Secure Communities Scheme to help community projects to meet the unexpected costs of securing premises during the pandemic.

Moving to new premises represents a positive development for everyone involved with the Lewis-Manning Hospice Care organisation. The challenge however was to make the move in the midst of the pandemic, which increased the effort and costs involved in what was already a complex operation. The new Longfleet premises means the hospice’s services are more accessible to people in the community, as it is closer to the centre of town and Poole hospital, and has significantly improved transport links. To help reduce some of the moving costs and help the Hospice meet some important security considerations, the Secure Communities Scheme awarded a Burg-Wächter Safe in which confidential papers, cash and other valuable items can be stored. Additionally, the security kit also included a top of the range key cabinet and cash box both of which help solve some of the day to day security challenges for the hospice.

Speaking for Lewis-Manning Hospice, Claire Warren commented: “The Secure Communities Scheme donated a safe, key box, cash tin and letter box to Lewis-Manning Hospice Care. This provided the security we need to deliver our services to the people in our local community who are affected by life-limiting illnesses such as cancer and Parkinson’s. At a time of change and uncertainty it has been so reassuring to gain such practical support.”

Mark Pearson from Burg-Wächter, the company behind the Secure Communities Scheme commented: “Burg-Wächter is known for its comprehensive choice of locking products as well as an extensive range of safes and post-boxes.  We saw a rise in demand for such products during the Covid-19 lockdown.  We knew that communities would struggle to meet the unexpected cost of providing extra security during the restrictions, so we adapted our existing Secure Communities Scheme to reflect this need.  Since lockdown commenced, we have provided over 20 security kits worth £150 each to communities across the UK, with many more applications currently being processed.  We hope the Scheme’s support for Lewis-Manning Hospice will allow the team to fully care for the members of their community without the added worry of security issues.”

The Secure Communities Scheme is now seeking more applications from community projects that are still affected by the pandemic restrictions.  Any local initiative that is run by or supports the local community can apply.  Successful applicants receive a tailored security kit to help secure property, premises, equipment or storage areas to the value of £150.  Successful applications are selected dependent on their engagement with local communities, the impact of the lockdown on security requirements and the benefits that increased security can provide.  Application forms for the Secure Communities Scheme can be found here: https://uk.burg.biz/community/. More information on Lewis-Manning Hospice can be found here: https://lewis-manning.co.uk/