Derbyshire County Council issues new call for volunteers to support COVID-19 community response unit

Volunteers could be asked to help with food shopping and delivery, collecting and delivering prescriptions, or checking up on people who are isolated with a phone call or online help to prevent loneliness and checking whether there is anything they need.

Council leader Barry Lewis said: “Earlier on in the year hundreds of people signed up to volunteer, helping thousands of vulnerable residents in what was an incredible display of Derbyshire spirit.

“As winter approaches, we’re calling on that same spirit of looking after each other and asking people across the county who have time to spare to help again and look out for the most vulnerable in our communities.”

He added: “You might be someone on furlough looking to keep busy during your time away from work and boost your mental health, or you might be looking to improve your CV by developing new skills and knowledge.

“Volunteering doesn’t have to be a long-term commitment it can be something you do in the short or medium-term, so whatever time you can give, we want to hear from you.”

The community response unit is for residents with no friends or family to call on.

They may need help because they are at risk and self-isolating, or struggling to meet basic needs because of financial, social or health restrictions.

People who are pregnant, living with underlying health conditions, or aged 70 and over are also eligible for help.

Under current restrictions, volunteers must be aged between 18 and 70 and be considered fit and well.

Anyone interested should get in touch with their local volunteer service. Contact details are available at derbyshire.gov.uk/givehelp. If you registered your interest earlier in the year and were not contacted, get in touch with your local volunteer centre.

Residents in need of help can request support via derbyshire.gov.uk/gethelp, or phone 01629 535091. Phone lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.

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