One woman lifeline beats freeze

ELDERLY tenants at a Warrington housing scheme have praised the efforts of one worker who battled, single-handed, to make sure they were safe and comfortable during the big freeze.
Michelle Woodward, a manager at Lowry Close, cleared snow and ice from 12 pathways in case ambulances were needed and checked pipes and boilers to ensure heating and hot water were still working.
She also delivered shopping parcels to make sure that residents had plenty of food in their cupboards, checked that residents were up to date with medication and even collected prescriptions if needed.
Residents at the Warrington Housing Association development say Michelle, from Great Sankey, has been a one woman lifeline, going above and beyond the tasks she normally does as part of her role.
One resident, Mrs Sutherland, said: “Michelle has been absolutely wonderful over the last few weeks.
“Contrary to the many stories you read about the elderly being left to fend for themselves in winter, Michelle’s help has been life-saving and very much appreciated by myself and my neighbours. She is a true star.”
Michelle Woodward said: “With the arrival of the snow and the worst weather Warrington has ever witnessed I just wanted to make sure that all of my tenants were safe and warm.
“I wanted to reassure them that they were not alone. The hardest job was clearing the pathways however it really was necessary for the safety of the tenants.”
Alan Kemp, chief executive of Warrington Housing Association, said: “Michelle’s actions over the last few weeks have certainly been commendable.
“I would like to thank Michelle, along with all employees from The Association, who made an extra effort during the big freeze to ensure our tenants could access services.”