Council advice for Covid-19 volunteers
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DURING the uncertainty and isolation of the coronavirus outbreak, Highland Council is offering advice to those who volunteer their time and services to help others.
To support these volunteers, the council's trading standards team has produced five Helping Hands guidelines to follow:
- Join an official group at Ready Scotland
- Carry verifiable ID
- Don’t ask for money up front
- Follow social distancing rules
- Protect others – report anything suspicious
Volunteers are also advised to avoid cold-calling to offer help and be patient while people are checking identification documentation.
A trading standards spokesman said: "If you're volunteering with an official organisation, make sure that you carry ID and be patient while people check it. The person you are helping must be able to verify that you are genuine.
"There are fraudsters taking advantage of those who need help. If you are offering to buy groceries, don’t ask for money up front and never take the person’s bank card or PIN. Get a receipt and only accept payment once you've delivered the items.
"Remember to keep a safe distance of two metres away. If you are delivering groceries or medicine, leave it at the door then step away. Find the latest medical guidance at NHS Inform.
"Protect others in your community. Sign up for Neighbourhood Watch Scotland Alerts to receive the most up to date information about what's going on in your local area and report anything suspicious to the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency."
Trading Standards is providing advice and guidance to businesses and consumers affected by Covid-19.
For more information on Helping Hands.
Members of the public wishing advice on a particular matter can contact Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 or visit Consumer Advice.
