Coronavirus: Rosso steps in to help volunteers taking supplies to people isolated at home

Bus operator Rosso is offering free travel to organised groups helping to deliver vital food and medical supplies to those isolated at home due to coronavirus

As the UK prepares for an expected rise in cases of coronavirus, bus operator Rosso is to support volunteers helping those living in isolation.

The Prime Minister Boris Johnson says the UK is approaching the “fast growth part of the upward curve” in the coronavirus outbreak, and anyone with a new cough or a temperature – and anyone living with them – is advised to remain at home for 14 days. Meanwhile those over 70, or who have a significant health condition, are being asked to avoid unnecessary social contact with other people.

Following the latest government update, it’s anticipated that organised groups of volunteers will be formed to help deliver food, medicine and vital supplies to those living in isolation at home – and now, Rosso is offering these groups free travel on any of its buses to complete that task.

Rosso’s Operations Manager Phil Harris said: “This is clearly a very worrying and challenging time for many in the communities we serve, and we want to do everything we possibly can to support local people as they respond to the latest health advice.

“The role of volunteers will be vital in getting supplies to those who must remain in their homes and have no other way of accessing food, prescription medicines and so on, and it’s heart-warming to see so many people already offering to help. We want to support those who are giving their time and effort to support people coming to terms with living in isolation at home.

“Our message to them is that if you’re supporting someone who can’t leave their home because of the preventative measures being taken around coronavirus, you can ride for free on our local buses to take them the things that they need to get by.

“Our local network of buses serving towns and villages around the area provide a vital service to some of the most needy and vulnerable people in our community at the best of times. We know things are difficult for people right now, and we want to make it easier to get food, medicine or general supplies out to those who need it.”

Organisers leading groups delivering essential supplies who would like to know more should contact Rosso by email, at: helpingout@transdevbus.co.uk.

Meanwhile additional measures are in place to reassure everyone that Rosso’s buses are safe to use. The cleaning regime is thorough, with each bus cleaned inside and out every night, while extra valeting is taking place during the day at bus stations.

Additionally, the number of extra cleans buses receive during the day has been raised, while the use of disinfectant, particularly on well-used surfaces, has been increased.

Soap and hot water is available to all bus drivers where they take their breaks as usual – and in addition, all drivers are being given personal sanitiser gel kits for use when they’re on the move.