Newark’s Palace Theatre’s star role during coronavirus outbreak

Performers may not be on stage at Newark’s Palace Theatre at present, but it is still the focal point of activity.

Since the outbreak of the covid-19 in March, the stage has been full, not of performers, but of bags of pasta, cans of soup and more.

Staff have been working alongside Newark and Sherwood’s Humanitarian Assistance Response Team (HART) to get essential food parcels to those isolating during the pandemic.

Between March 16 and September 23, HART responded to 910 requests for assistance across the district, with around 20% of these requests (180) resulting in delivery of an urgent food parcel.

HART has been supporting requests ranging from collecting prescriptions and medication to undertaking well-being visits.

The team at the Palace Theatre has hosted a hub for food deliveries and packed food parcels.

Council leader David Lloyd said: “Whilst it’s not the way the Palace Theatre team had planned to celebrate its centenary year, it is important to acknowledge that the theatre‘s journey over this year will continue to be a story told for the next 100 years.

“The enormous effort of the HART and Palace Theatre colleagues has meant that the most vulnerable in the community have had the support they needed for the past six months.

“It is also important to remember that the HART support has not stopped, it is still in operation and, if anyone is self-isolating or needs help in the future, they must still call the Nottinghamshire Coronavirus Community Support Hub where enquiries will be triaged and dealt with by the best placed group, which could be our Newark and Sherwood District Council’s HART team.”

Most remaining supplies were sent to Newark Women’s Aid and Newark Foodbank while some are held for those that require support.

Lesley Marshall, Newark Foodbank manager, said: “The people of Newark have always been generous and we have been amazed at how they have helped.

“We have had so many great calls from people and the support from places like Newark and Sherwood District Council and the Palace Theatre has been incredible.”

Anyone vulnerable and/or are struggling with accessing food should email the hub at enquiries@nottscc.gov.uk

If you do not have access to the internet or email, call 0300 500 8080.