West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has outlined a plan for helping constituents as the Coronavirus crisis sweeps the county.

Parliament has recessed and the MP has returned to West Worcestershire but social distancing conventions to prevent the spread of Covid-19 mean that she has to change the ways she offers help and advice.

Harriett commented: “With Parliament recessed, I would normally have a busy schedule of meetings in the constituency but like everyone else, I am following the Government advice and socially distancing and working from home.

“I have seen a huge surge in requests for help and I am doing my best to offer help and advice where I can. I am also posting helpline numbers and important websites on social media to help share as much information as I can.

“During this very busy period, I am trying to respond to every query as quickly as I can but often the best advice is to consult the official Government website at gov.uk/coronavirus.

“The Treasury has set up a really useful website for businesses and working people who need help or support at www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support/ People who need help with tax issues should call 0800 0159 559.

“If you need help with Universal Credit, the best thing to do is to apply online but for those who have serious issues, I am keen to help, as MPs have a dedicated helpline for sorting complex benefit problems.

“I have been contacted by many people who are abroad and need advice or assistance. The best advice is to stay in close contact with your local consular office wherever you are and to sign up for email updates. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office helpline number is 0207 0081 500.

“I am doing my best to help where I can and people who need any other assistance can email me at harriett.baldwin.mp@parliament.uk.”