HWLincs Volunteers – Community Action in the Lockdown
During this period of lockdown when our fantastic team of volunteers aren’t able to go out and about for HWLincs and Healthwatch, they are still doing their bit for neighbours, friends and other organisations.
The value of volunteering has come to the fore in recent weeks with the NHS receiving an overwhelming number of people coming forward to help. In these unprecedented times, the goodwill and kindness of people of all ages showing care and support for others should be recognised. We are all doing what we can to keep ourselves, families, friends and neighbours safe and well.
As Volunteer Officer for HWLincs, the weekly Volunteers Together Quiz has been a hit! It’s proving very popular and being shared with others to enjoy. Family, friends and neighbours are getting into the spirit along with our own HWLincs Team! Scores are in for the first four weeks and they’re looking good. It’s been a great way to stay connected and have a bit of fun.
The volunteers were asked to share with us what they are doing to keep busy and help other and we want to share this with you and show our appreciation and support for them.
A volunteer who has done so much for his community already in supporting mental health services and activities is carrying on his good work volunteering for the Covid Team in his home town, delivering medications and other essential items.
One lady in her seventies, herself in isolation is keeping in touch through WhatsApp with a large group of friends, some of whom live alone, she’s shopping for an elderly lady and assisting her hairdresser with putting together instructions and kits for ‘home hair colouring’. Exceptional times means everyone is having to learn new skills and be resourceful!
Another volunteer is working hard with Shout – the UK’s first 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. It’s a place to go if you are struggling to cope and you need immediate help. She also is shopping for an elderly neighbour alongside learning new painting skills and keeping fit with Joe Wicks!
One of our office volunteers is now keeping busy sewing scrub bags for NHS workers, valuable work and so needed to support our fantastic health workers.
Another lady is sharing powerful video messages and funny images with elderly neighbours and friends to keep everyone laughing and thinking positively.
Fantastic volunteering everyone! We are so pleased to hear of our communities coming together and helping each other during this difficult time and want to thank everyone who is doing what they can to support others.
