Home   News   Article

Badenoch MSP wants more supermarket delivery slots for rural areas


By Gavin Musgrove

Easier access to your trusted, local news. Subscribe to a digital package and support local news publishing.



Click here to sign up to our free newsletters!

Badenoch Kate Forbes MSP has written to a number of major supermarkets urging them to create more home delivery slots for rural communities utilising online shopping.

The Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch MSP decided to take action after a number of vulnerable constituents, some who are self-isolating because of their age as well as others with underlying health conditions, could not find a single home delivery slot in the next three weeks for any supermarket chain in the Highlands.

In some cases Ms Forbes has been able to direct people to local volunteer groups who have in turn delivered shopping to a doorstep – whilst following the social distancing and health and safety guidance.

Kate Forbes MSP wants more home delivery slots for rural communities
Kate Forbes MSP wants more home delivery slots for rural communities

Ms Forbes MSP (SNP) said: “Obviously, lots of vulnerable constituents are now dependent on home delivery for their shopping anywhere but with the increased number doing so it means that delivery slots are disappearing very quickly.

“People are understandably panicking and contacting me because they don’t know where else to turn to for essential supplies.

"If you have an underlying health condition, or perhaps if you are showing symptoms of the virus, you should absolutely stay away from the shops and remain at home.

“I am immensely thankful for the number of big-hearted volunteer groups who have come to the rescue, by offering practical help by way of delivery the shopping themselves.

“Not everyone has such assistance available on their doorstep, so against that backdrop I have written to the major supermarket chains to see if they can increase the number of home delivery slots for those doing online shopping in rural communities.

“I recognise that supermarkets are doing everything they can so we can all have access to essential items and fresh produce.

“But it would be great, particularly now that the government has relaxed restrictions around delivery hours, if the big firms could increase provision for this highly valued and helpful service.”


Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More