A KEIGHLEY centre which provides a lifeline to many in the community has continued to offer help despite the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Good Shepherd Centre, like countless other organisations, was forced to close its doors to the public when lockdown began in March.

But that hasn’t stopped vital support getting through to those who need it.

Phone referrals have been taken as people have required assistance.

Two families that had suffered house fires needed replacement baby items, furniture and other household goods.

An asylum-seeking family which had just moved into the town desperately needed basic items.

Donations of food were received and staff and volunteers began deliveries to people’s homes.

A spokesman said: “Because the Good Shepherd Centre has storage space, we are able to keep some donated furniture and we have an extensive clothing bank – which has come in very useful during lockdown.”

Work has continued on processing EU settlement status applications – using the phone, WhatsApp and Messenger to maintain contact with applicants.

The centre offers immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees help with learning English, completing forms and registering at doctors’ surgeries, nurseries and schools.

“Families and local schools are an important part of our community and the centre has always worked closely with both,” said the spokesman.

“Good Shepherd is a place of sanctuary. We are working towards becoming dementia friendly and it is a registered hate crime reporting centre.

“Lockdown has brought fresh challenges but the centre will reopen fully in time, whilst following social distancing and asking visitors to wear face coverings.

“Language teaching is resuming on a one-to-one basis and anyone who would like to volunteer with this is asked to please get in touch. Online platforms are now being used for learning.

“There is a particular need for volunteers who can be called on, with knowledge of Middle Eastern languages. Similarly, anyone in need of help with English conversation, reading or writing, or in navigating the British systems, should please make contact.”

Next month, the charity plans to take a shop unit in the town centre – the Towngate premises formerly home to Holland & Barrett. Good-quality donated clothing will be on sale for a six-week period. Volunteer helpers are welcome.

The centre is running an emergency, appointment-only service. Call 07491 778715 daytime weekdays or 01535 608639. The centre can also be contacted on tgsc.keighley@gmail.com, or visit thegoodshepherdcentre.org.uk.