How can I volunteer and provide support? And what should I consider?
We know that a lot of people are offering help and support to our communities, those who are self-isolating and those who are ill at the time. This could include support such as:
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Befriending
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Information sharing
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Drivers to support with shopping/ delivering medication
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Support with errands and day to day tasks e.g. post/ walking the dog
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Backfilling admin roles
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Boredom busters e.g. virtual reading groups
It is important however that this is done in a safe and coordinated manner. If you are volunteering to help someone, you should take steps to make sure you don't contribute to the spread of coronavirus. These include:
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If you feel at all unwell, do not volunteer to help others who are self-isolating
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Wash your hands regularly, especially before and after you deliver any items to a person in isolation
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If you make a delivery, stay 2 meters away from the person who is in isolation at all times. Place the items outside their door and then step away.
Other advice:
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Be careful about how you share personal information about yourself and other people. Avoid sharing your or a vulnerable person's address and other contact information in public groups or documents.
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Try to support people who live close to you so you don't travel larger distances
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If you are visiting people and carrying out errands, take a look at the personal safety advice on the Suzy Lamplugh Trust website.
How can I get involved?
If you would like more information on volunteering and to register your intertest, please visit Central Surrey Voluntary Action.
