THE Novichok poisonings have dominated the news for the last 5 months, casting a grey cloud over Salisbury. We have seen the impact on the lives of those affected and the wider community, especially the tragic death of Dawn Sturgess and the closure of sites such as Queen Elizabeth Gardens and Amesbury Baptist Church. However amongst the sadness and challenging situations, there has been an overwhelming sense of community support and spirit.

Police and security staff have received refreshments during the hot weather as the people of Salisbury gave back to those working to keep the city safe. Staff at Porton Down are working tirelessly to analyse potential items of interest whilst the business community has worked hard to help the local economy recover.

Early on July 5 Alabare received a request from Wiltshire Council to help with the urgent move of the residents from Sanctuary Housing Association’s John Baker House, as a result of the poisoning investigation. Alabare colleagues rose to the challenge. The team led by Sue Gumbleton quickly identified what accommodation Alabare had that could be brought into use in Salisbury and what was needed to get ready. The list was extensive – beds, white goods and furniture to name but a few. A call to our charity shops meant that many items were sourced; local contractors responded to requests to deliver and install. A special thank you to CB Domestics who pulled out all the stops and sourced a washing machine, fridge and freezer, delivered and installed in just four hours. By the afternoon a team of volunteers were busy setting the homes for people to live in and by that evening 10 people and two dogs had moved in. An amazing achievement.

We should not underestimate the disruption to the lives of the residents of John Baker House, being told to leave at short notice with an overnight bag and no food. They left all their possessions behind and had little clarity of what the future held for them. Working with the staff from John Baker House, Wiltshire Council and other partner agencies we ensured that the move was achieved with the least disruption possible. This collaborative working continued for three weeks ensuring all 10 residents continued to receive the necessary support until they were able and ready go to return to John Baker House.

In times of crisis, we often see the best in people in how they respond. Working with Sanctuary Housing Association, Wiltshire Council and other partners the rehousing of 10 people was achieved quickly and successfully. A big thank you to all the people and groups who sent in donations of toiletries, clothes and other wonderful gifts, a special thank you to Dawn’s family who also came with donations. The kindness and generosity demonstrated by our local community has been incredible. The spirit of Salisbury in abundant evidence!