Richmond's Meals on Wheels delivery service is in urgent need of fresh staff to cope with increased demand amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Apetito is commissioned by Richmond Council to run the vital service, which serves as a lifeline for residents and older people who can't get out or cook themselves.

Hot meals are delivered daily to homes in foil containers, or frozen meals can be provided on a fortnightly basis.

Apetito urgently need to recruit additional staff to help deliver the meals. Customers include the NHS, Care Homes, as well as direct to people’s homes.

Cllr Piers Allen, chair of the adult social services, health and housing services committee, said:

“Meals on wheels is a life-line to so many people. And, with even more people now considered ‘in need’, more residents are needing to access the service.

“Apetito therefore need more staff to help deliver the service.

“Meals on Wheels is more than just providing meal. Many of the people who receive the deliveries live alone. The meal delivery is also about making sure we are checking on people, identifying if they are well or in need of further support.

“If you are looking for a role or able to help, I urge you to get in touch with Apetito without delay.”

For those interested in available posts, go to: www.apetito.co.uk/careers or email your CV to recruitment@apetito.co.uk