Welsh Government press release: Volunteers – how to help, thank you, and stay safe

Jane Hutt, the Deputy Minister and Chief Whip, today gave thanks to the brilliant, kind people from all backgrounds throughout Wales who are volunteering to help communities face the coronavirus outbreak together.

“Wales has a strong tradition of people helping one another out, and we’ve really seen this in action over the past few weeks. From picking up the phone, to delivering supplies to people who are self-isolating, to helping our public services, there are lots of things that can be done. All of this helps local communities, and takes pressure off the NHS.

“I want to say thank you – you are fantastic.

“If you’d like to volunteer, it’s important that you keep yourself safe. Please follow the advice below, and stay safe.” 

1. Only volunteer if you’re well, and you have no symptoms. No-one should be put under pressure to volunteer, and you shouldn’t volunteer if you’re over 70, pregnant, or have a pre-existing health condition.
2. You can help people from within your own home, over the phone or via social media. A ‘hello’ or check-in over the phone can be really important, but stay safe on social media.
3. You can join in with your neighbours to help vulnerable people in your street or immediate local area, or set up a new community group that is responding to Covid-19. Make sure there are systems and processes in place to safeguard you from abuse and harm.
4. You can join a local volunteer organisation – check volunteering-wales.net for opportunities.
5. Wales Council for Voluntary Action has guidance on ‘Community response to Covid-19 – enabling safe and effective practice’ – see wcva.cymru.

Ruth Marks, CEO of the Welsh Council for Voluntary Action, said:

“We have seen a huge increase in the number of people offering their time. Given the difficult circumstances that everyone is facing, this should be applauded, and so this recognition from Welsh Government is really appreciated.”

For more help and advice, please visit http://gov.wales/safehelp 

 -ENDS-

Notes:

For case studies, please contact Elen Notley at Wales Council for Voluntary Action: [email protected]

Tel: 029 2043 1728 or 0771 371 6216