As the spread of Coronavirus COVID-19 becomes more widespread in the UK, those who are vulnerable or who may need to self-isolate, will need support to access everyday essentials throughout the virus pandemic.
There are different ways in which you can help people locally in Trafford throughout the COVID-19 outbreak, including:
‘Being a Good Neighbour’ – Join one of your local Mutual Aid Groups
If you want to take part in informal volunteering/mutual aid you do not need to register with Thrive Trafford if you are interested in local community volunteering, such as shopping for a local neighbour.
Visit the Mutual Aid page for advice and information on volunteering with an existing mutual aid group and for advice on setting up your own mutual aid group.
If you are assisting someone who is self-isolated, please remember to follow the necessary social distancing precautions.
What does volunteering for a mutual aid group involve?
Groups organise their own activities in response to local community needs. Some tasks might include:
- Leafleting and flyering to reach people who are isolated and to raise awareness of the group
- Providing contact information for people to contact for support. A phone number is more useful for people who do not have internet access
- Registering others to volunteer
- Running errands, shopping or other activities self-isolated people cannot perform
- Providing emotional support and contact for people who are self-isolating or struggling with the effects of the pandemic
How can I find my local mutual aid group?
Mutual aid groups are springing up all over the UK. Covid Mutual Aid have an up to date map and list of local groups on their website: https://covidmutualaid.org/local-groups You can also register your own group on the site.
Volunteer to support local voluntary organisations in Trafford
In response to the COVID-19 outbreak Thrive have been working closely with community leaders, VCSE and faith groups, the public sector and housing partners to mobilise 6 community hubs to support people locally that are in need of food, getting prescriptions delivered, information and advice on local services and befriending support throughout the COVID-19 outbreak.
We have seen a high demand from people wanting to help locally at the Trafford community hubs and are currently at capacity for volunteers for the community hubs, however we are keen to look at how people interested in volunteering can still help locally across other Trafford voluntary sector organisations especially in the future following the COVID-19 outbreak.
Thrive Trafford’s role is to coordinate and match initial volunteer enquiries with suitable volunteering opportunities based within Trafford’s voluntary sector.
If you would like to volunteer please Click Here to register your interest.
To view some of the current volunteer opportunities available please click here.
Our team will then on your behalf liaise with local VCSE groups and organisations to match you up with a suitable volunteering placement.
***Please note there maybe a delay in responding to your enquiry as we are experiencing a high demand from people wanting to volunteer.***
Donate items or resources
If you are a resident or business that would like to donate any items, or resources as part of the Trafford Community Response to COVID-19 please get in touch with us on info@thrivetrafford.org.uk or call 0330 123 9766 and leave a voicemail.
Voluntary, Community & Social Enterprise (VCSE) & Faith Organisations
If you are a Voluntary, Community, Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisation or Faith group and need additional volunteer support please contact us on info@thrivetrafford.org.uk
We have also put together a webpage of ‘Guidance for VCSEs’ around Coronavirus COVID-19 – Click Here for further details.
Get Help Locally in Your Area for you or a friend or family member in need
In light of Covid-19, Trafford Council in partnership with Citizens Advice Trafford has set up a central Trafford Community Response helpline 0300 330 9073 (press 4 for Trafford) for people who need support with the following:
- Food parcels
- Help with shopping and delivering essential items
- Prescription pick-ups
- Information and advice on local services to support around COVID-19
- Befriending
Click Here to download the Trafford Community Response leaflet
General rules for keeping safe and well whilst supporting your local community throughout the COVID-19 outbreak
- Social Distancing – Don’t enter people’s houses – stay on the doorstep and keep 2 metres apart!
- Be kind and respectful
- Respect everyone’s privacy helping vulnerable people requires mutual trust e.g. don’t share any private information or contact details without consent from the individual.
- Follow Public Health’s Guidance on infection control around COVID-19 Follow up to date information on @PHE_uk or visit the PHE website.
- Self-isolate if you feel unwell with symptoms of Coronavirus or have been in contact with someone who has/had the virus . Guidance on this is available on the NHS website.
- Keep in touch If volunteering always carry a mobile phone and let someone know where you are going and when you are due to return home
We will be updating this information on a regular basis and will have more updates for how you can give help or get help locally.