Glimmers of light at end of the tunnel
Glimmers of hope and outpourings of support have been brightening up the otherwise dark days in the voluntary sector, says JULIET SHORT, operations and development manager at Connex Community Support
IT has been another rollercoaster month. It is wonderful to hear of the hope that the vaccination programmes are delivering although there are still people suffering from Covid locally.
Fortunately, the injections are making a palpable difference to many. Judith Turton, an Ashbourne resident, related this most vividly after receiving her jab, when she said: “I could have skipped all around Ashbourne. It felt as though the sun had come out.”
As more and more people are vaccinated, we are hopeful that this will lead to significant changes in the way in which the voluntary sector delivers services and to much more skipping!
Side-stepping politics, as more and more of us are vaccinated, we each will be less at risk of contracting Covid-19.
We are all increasingly optimistic that there is a way through this pandemic.
This optimism is redoubled through the kindness of the local population.
As a charity, we are contacted each week by people who want to offer their help in one form or another. We are immensely grateful for all these offers: a reminder of the essential largesse of people on bleaker days.
Indeed, this brings the sun out for all of us! Thank you.
Businesses and other groups have been equally generous. Their donations have allowed us to continue to offer shopping and prescription collection; transport to vaccination appointments – all free-ofcharge – while ensuring our volunteers do not end up out of pocket. Special thanks to the Woodroffe Benton Foundation,
I could have skipped all around Ashbourne. It felt as though the sun had come out
Judith Turton after her jab
the Osmaston History Group, the Rotary Club of Wirksworth and to Wathall’s for their support.
We know that this generosity is echoed throughout the voluntary sector. Indeed, we were delighted to visit Ashbourne Food Bank a few weeks ago to deliver surplus emergency food supplies: it was great to see the food mountain afforded through the fundraising efforts of the Ashbourne Running Club.
Although there have been poignant goodbyes in January, there is much kindness in the world. If you or someone you know may know need help, please don’t lose hope. There are many local and national resources available and we have listed just a few here.
They will all signpost to other agencies where appropriate: Derbyshire Citizens Advice (Telephone 0300 456 8390); Community Resilience Unit (issues arising from the pandemic on 01629 535901); Derbyshire Carers Association (Telephone 01773 833833) and the Sudden Bereavement Helpline (0800 2600 400).
Last but not least, we are of course delighted to continue to take enquiries at Connex on 01335 348600 or via dales@ connex.org.uk.