Whitley Bay woman honoured for community efforts during pandemic

Pamela Hood, from Whitley Bay, was named the North Tyneside winner of the Covid Acts of Kindness Community Award.

The awards, organised by the public health campaign BeatCovidNE, celebrate outstanding individuals in local communities across the region, with one winner from each of the seven local authorities.

The 73-year-old created a daily Covid comms hub for her church group, sending out daily emails covering the latest local news, Covid updates and community events.

Pamela also set up a mobile bookshop, turning her whole house into a warehouse of books.

Anyone could request a book in exchange for a small donation which was passed onto the local church.

She also made around 50 house calls per week whilst being the carer for her husband.

Pamela said: “Being nominated and finding out I was a winner of Covid Acts of Kindness Award was a total shock.

"It has blown me away quite frankly. I felt passionate about trying to keep our church family connected and if my contribution has helped to do this then mission accomplished.”

Amanda Healy, chair of the Association of Directors of Public Health North East and Director of Public Health for County Durham, said: “First and foremost I’d like to thank everyone who submitted a nomination.

"We were overwhelmed by the number of inspiring acts of Covid kindness we received from right across the region.

“Our seven winners, aged from 14 to over 70 years-old, are a testament to the fact that no matter your age you can make a difference.

"Their varied acts of kindness demonstrate the power of the north east spirit.

“Myself and my fellow judges were humbled to read all of the nominations.

"Although it was an extremely hard decision we are delighted to announce these seven winners as those who truly embody the region’s renowned goodwill.

“Please join us in celebrating the outstanding acts of kindness our winners have carried out during the pandemic; supporting neighbours, families, friends and communities.

"Help spread the word to encourage everyone to think about what we can all do to be kind to each other this winter.

“The fact that all of our winners are continuing to support their local communities is a reminder that Covid is still circulating in our communities.

"Infection rates are rising and our hospitals are continuing to see Covid admissions increase and sadly, people are dying from this dreadful virus.

"This year flu and Covid are circulating at the same time.

"The most important thing we can all do to slow the spread of Covid is to take up all recommended doses of the vaccine and get the flu jab, at the earliest opportunity.

“It’s important we also remember that simple acts of kindness - such as wearing face coverings in crowded places, socially distancing when out and about, meeting outdoors when possible, self-testing regularly and isolating if we test positive - help to protect each other and those at risk.”

In November, all seven winners will be invited to their individual local civic centres to be recognised for their civic service to their local community.

To find out more about the award visit www.beatcovidne.co.uk