West Ham United fans have come together to support their fellow Hammers who have lost their jobs during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Hammers for Work and Support Facebook page has been set up by supporters, helping them to find jobs and talk with each other about the impact Coronavirus has had on them.
With over 6,000 members, the group has already helped Hammers fans back into work, found housing for homeless people and given others access to mental health services and support.
East London has been hit particularly hard by the effects of the pandemic, with more than 17,000 residents in Newham, the Hammers’ home borough, being placed on furlough, and 27,000 extra people having to claim benefits.
Lifelong Hammers fans Danny Panrucker and Neil Taylor started the page in response to the struggles of their fellow Hammers, and have gained the backing of former Hammers Tony Cottee and Carlton Cole.
“I couldn’t believe how badly some people were struggling. We have a wonderful community fanbase and I thought it would be a good way of getting people together through the love of the club,” said Mr Panrucker.
Mr Taylor said: “Connections are really important, especially at the moment when you can’t go out and people are struggling financially. The page shows everyone they’re not alone.”
For more information on the group, please click here.