In these uncertain times that are fast becoming second nature now, as a Blackpool community it’s easy to dwell on the bad news stories in what are, for sure, unprecedented times.

However, as mentioned in the Queen’s speech, there have been plenty of positive stories around the UK of people coming together (metaphorically) and doing their bit to fight Coronavirus.

Whether this is through joining the nation to clap for the NHS, or share good hearted wishes on social media, or simply check in on vulnerable neighbours or deliver essentials – these are the news stories which are lifting spirits. As is always the case, when confronted with hardship and difficulty, people find a resilience within them to keep going, put the needs of others before themselves and do their bit to bring some good to the situation. 

How Blackpool Grand Theatre’s #AtHomeWithYou Campaign can help keep the Blackpool community families occupied during Coronavirus lockdown

Blackpool Grand Theatre have been busy bees. We’re building out our YouTube channel with lots of free online video content and activities for children and adults to enjoy, to keep you and the family entertained. Whether you’re young or old, no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find:

• Yoga classes
• Storytelling
• Photography Tutorials 
• Q & A 

And so much more. You can discover more here. 

Activity Timetable for Kids on Lockdown

What’s more, we’ve put together a handy downloadable timetable for parents to keep their kids entertained in lockdown over Easter (and beyond!). It’s full to bursting with online resources, handy creative projects, and ideas, so you’ll never run out of steam. Insert link to timetable here.

Looking locally, the Blackpool community have been contributing to the effort to ‘fight’ Coronavirus in whatever way they can. Blackpool Grand Theatre is proud to be part of such a community, so we’ve put together a ‘good news round up’. A little goes a long way, and the random acts of kindness Blackpool citizens have shown are a perfect example of community spirit doing what it does best.

How Blackpool Are Responding to Coronavirus

Facebook Group Shop it Local Blackpool has been set up by a Blackpool Dad and has amassed nearly 5,000 members since its inception on March 17. Designed to give assistance and deliver supplies to the vulnerable (aged over 70), join the group to discover how they can help, and how you can help! 

The Boathouse Youth Group has been delivering free school meals, lunches and Easter Eggs around Blackpool – you can follow their Twitter for updates, as well as details of how to help out! 5 delivery drivers delivered 480 packed lunches this week – an incredible effort, and a perfect example of a community coming together to do their bit.

Hip Hop and R&B dance company Lil Beatz are uploading a daily free live stream dance class for kids on lockdown. Uploaded on the dance group’s YouTube channel, the 30 minute live stream videos are perfect to get your children up and about. These daily dance routines can easily be done indoors, are completely free.

Top Tip: Why read our article which features 2 week activity timetable for kids on lockdown, that includes Lil Beatz live stream?

Keeping Kids Entertained on Lockdown – Week 1

Keeping Kids Entertained on Lockdown – Week 2

The Blackpool Community are also showing solidarity and spreading some sunshine and cheer by painting windows to appear on windows – this has been seen all around the UK, showcasing how a bit of creative flair can go a long way!

Meanwhile, Alexandra Care Home in Poulton has asked for children to send residents drawings and pictures that they’ve done. For many, the ongoing situation is confusing for residents, and with limited visits from relatives, a drawing, painting or postcard will truly bring a smile to their face. Email info@alexandracarehome.co.uk to get involved. 

Blackpool Tower has opened a food donation centre, with staff from Merlin events, who have been put on Furlough, overseeing proceedings. The food donation hub looks to help those in need of food and supplies and opened on Friday, 3 April. Volunteers are doing a brilliant job by donating and distributing items to those in need. 

Blackpool Grand

Take a look at what’s on at Blackpool Grand Theatre this Autumn / Winter 20/21

Blackpool Grand set out a COVID-Community Communication Programme (CCCP) during the Coronavirus pandemic. Our aims were simple, to CONNECT, COMFORT and UPLIFT. We would Connect people by offering tutorials on communication tools like Zoom and conduct community face-to-face meetings (book readings, youth groups and more). Comfort through stories of heritage, memories and storytelling, and to Uplift visitors spirits through laughter and exercise. Please do enjoy and if you can afford to donate please do.

The information in this story is accurate as of the publication date. While we are attempting to keep our content as up-to-date as possible, the situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic continues to develop rapidly, so it’s possible that some information and recommendations may have changed since publishing. For any concerns and latest advice around COVID-19, visit the World Health Organisation. If you’re in the UK, the National Health Service can also provide useful information and support, while US users can contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Main image: The UK’s Queen Elizabeth II urged people to rise to the challenge posed by the coronavirus outbreak, in a rare special address to the UK [Buckingham Palace/AFP]