Caithness community rallying to support isolated and vulnerable people
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THE Caithness community has been rallying to support isolated and vulnerable people in the county amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Allan Tait, senior development officer at Caithness Voluntary Group (CVG), which has been coordinating the effort, is delighted with the response.
He said community organisations across the county are getting involved.
"Volunteers are being recruited and systems are being put in place to ensure the safety of everyone," he said. "It has been a great team effort between statutory organisations, businesses and the community."
During the crisis, help will be available for:
- Delivering shopping
- Transport
- Medication and errand pick-ups
- Giving a friendly local voice and support
Highland Council has a dedicated number, 01349 886669, for those who have received shielding letters or texts.
The local authority also has a free helpline to give assistance and to collect details of individuals and community groups looking to provide volunteering support during the Covid-19 outbreak.
The number – 0300 303 1362 – will connect callers to relevant council specialist teams.
Mr Tait said: "Callers will be able to get advice on benefits and personal support, education and social care, and there will also be advice for businesses that may need help with financial support.
"Helpline staff will also be signposting callers to other organisations that can provide help and assistance as well as gathering offers from individuals or community groups wishing to volunteer.
"Calls to either of these helplines will if necessary be referred back to the local organisations and if anyone is looking for immediate support the local areas can be contacted."
Meanwhile, CVG's Befriending Caithness team is setting up a telephone befriending service for anyone who is feeling isolated during the crisis.
Mr Tait said: "We understand that during this period a lot of people's normal social interactions have stopped and in particular for people living on their own we want to provide support. Please contact Angie House – angie@cvg.org.uk – for further details."
The Caithness-wide initiative is being organised by CVG in conjunction with a number of local community groups.
