Southwark's staff praised for going extra mile during winter freeze

Figures show that 100% of meals on wheels deliveries were made throughout December, and that all rubbish and recycling was collected either on time or on the next scheduled collection. 

Councillor Dora-Dixon-Fyle, cabinet member for adult social care at Southwark Council, praised the dedication of the team that provided vital support to the elderly during the winter freeze. 

"During the really bad weather it was vital that we kept on top of our game to keep vulnerable and elderly people warm, safe and supported. I'm really happy to see that despite the really difficult conditions, and challenges for staff, it was business as usual. I'd like to thank them all for their hard work."

The council's environment chief, Cllr Barrie Hargrove, visited the Sandgate Street cleaning depot at the Old Kent Road to thank over 70 council gritters in person. 

The cabinet member for transport, environment and recycling at Southwark Council praised the staff for keeping the borough moving throughout what turned out to be the coldest December for 100 years. 

He added: "It was important for me to meet the frontline staff who kept the estates and pavements gritted, and to thank them and all the other gritting teams. It's always a challenge to cope with the severe weather and the public expect to be able to carry on as best they can. It was down to these staff that they were able to, and I want to reiterate my thanks to them." 

Gritting

526 tonnes of grit has been deployed on over 4,360 km of carriageway and 120 tonnes deployed on about 400 km of vulnerable footways since the beginning of the winter season.  

Adult care  

• Hot meals and frozen back up meals were delivered in all areas where access was likely to be a problem due to icy road conditions  
• Provider agencies such as meals on wheels and day care services were quick to alert social services to any people who needed extra support  
• Delivery teams ensured that clients were warm and gave advice and assistance as needed  
• Two weeks supply of frozen meals was delivered during Christmas week  
• Social work teams ensured additional support organised for vulnerable older people