MORE volunteers are needed for Bromsgrove’s Community Support Group which has been helping out elderly and vulnerable residents during the lockdown.
It was launched by Georgia Oakes towards the end of March and the Facebook group has amassed over 2,000 followers.
But currently the service, which has 50 regular volunteers, is receiving around 200 calls-a-week and more requests through the Facebook page.
Members have been collecting and delivering prescriptions, shopping and meals for those shielding from the virus, along with taking people to healthcare appointments, providing and sharing information and other support networks.
The helpline, set up for those who do not have social media or Internet access, has proved incredibly popular as it puts users directly in touch with people in their area of the district who can assist them.
Those manning the helpline have also spoken to callers who are experiencing loneliness or who have any concerns about the pandemic.
Due to a number of their current call handlers returning to work, managing the helpline is one of the key roles the group is desperately seeking new volunteers for.
Georgia said: “I want to say a big thank you to all of our volunteers who have been working so hard.
“It is great we are in such demand because it shows the support we offer is what is needed by the community.
“But it also means we need more people to help – we are appealing to anyone in Bromsgrove who has time to spare and is happy to support other members of their community to get in touch.”
Volunteers, who can work flexibility from their own homes, but should be willing to give at least one block of four hours per week to the helpline, should email [email protected] to register their interest.
Support is available to all Bromsgrove residents via the ‘Bromsgrove Community Support’ Facebook group or by phoning 01527 306490 between 8am and 8pm, seven days-a-week.
Anyone who knows someone who is vulnerable and in need of support for issues, such as housing, money or social, can also contact Worcestershire County Council’s Here2Help scheme at worcestershire.gov.uk/here2help or call 01905 768053.
