Volunteer Centre Dorset is looking for new volunteers to come forward and register to help support people who are struggling because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Although cases are low in Dorset, compared to other parts of the country, the organisations involved in the coordinated community response to the virus are preparing for a potential rise in demand for help from residents who need to self-isolate.

Volunteers are needed across the county but there is a particular need for people to come forward from the Weymouth area.

If you can help others by:

• shopping for food
• delivering food parcels
• collecting prescriptions
• telephone befriending

you are encouraged to come forward and register to volunteer here: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/emergencies-severe-weather/emergencies/coronavirus/community-response/i-want-to-help-dorset-still-needs-you.aspx

“We all remember the fantastic response from the Dorset community during the first wave of the outbreak,” said Cllr Laura Miller, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health. “As we head towards winter, we need to call upon that goodwill again in order to help some of our residents get through what is likely to be a tough time.”

Marie Waterman, manager of the Volunteer Centre Dorset said, “We want to make sure that our residents are looking out for one another and that anyone who needs to stay at home will be safe and have the things they need, whether it’s food, medicine or simply someone to talk over the phone or online. If you’re healthy and know yourself to be at low risk of the virus, we are urging you to come forward and help others in your community. The amount of time you give can be flexible and you don’t necessarily need a driver’s licence. Whatever help people can offer is greatly appreciated.”

Dave Thorp, CEO of Age UK North, South and West Dorset is also urging volunteers to come forward. He said, “Please give whatever time you can, and make a real difference to the most vulnerable within our communities.”

When you register, you will be asked for your contact details, what activities you would be willing to do, your availability and details of your DBS check, if you have one.

Help available for people self-isolating

If you are self-isolating because of COVID-19 and don’t have family, friends or a support network that can get the things you need like food or medicine, don’t worry – help is available.

You can say what you need on an online form at https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/emergencies-severe-weather/emergencies/coronavirus/community-response/i-need-help-or-i-know-someone-who-needs-help-coronavirus-information.aspx, or call 01305 221000 8.30am–5pm Monday to Friday.

Find more information online at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/coronavirus