Appeal for more volunteers to help the vulnerable in Chesterfield

Leaders of the Chesterfield Volunteer Centre are appealing for more volunteers for the To Your Door service, which delivers shopping and prescriptions to those who are shielding or self-isolating during the Covid-19 crisis.

The service – which is supported by Chesterfield Borough Council – wants to ensure it is well-prepared to help as many people as possible, as the number of Covid-19 cases begin to rise again.

Dave Radford, the centre manager, said: “This project has been vital over the last few months and with the future unpredictable it is likely to remain that way.

“Since lockdown began in April, we have provided over 1600 shop deliveries for people - a phenomenal effort from staff and volunteers alike.

"We are always looking for volunteers, so if you think you could spare a couple of hours a week to help someone then just give us a call and we can answer any questions you may have.”

Coun Jill Mannion-Brunt, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, added: “The Volunteer Centre has been one of many organisations in Chesterfield that have gone out of their way to support our community through this crisis and the council thanks everyone who has given their time to support this project, and others like it.

“Chesterfield has proved itself to have a strong community spirit in times of need and I would urge anyone who thinks that they can volunteer a few hours of their time to come forward and help this important service keep running.”

Once a referral is received the Volunteer Centre sends out a request to all its volunteers with an outline of what is required.

This could be shopping, a prescription pick-up or an odd job.

Whatever the request, it will be something the individual is struggling to manage.

If a volunteer feels they can do it or has the time, then they simply email back to say so.

For information, email [email protected] or call 01246 276777.