Calls for Mackem army to fight virus
have been advised to stay inside for 12 weeks to help shield them from COVID-19.
Leaflets for possible volunteers began dropping through letter boxes between April 4 and 6, delivered by the Royal Mail.
Sunderland City Council's executive director of Neighbourhood Services, Fiona Brown said: "The Health Secretary launched the volunteers scheme and there may be more people across our city who are wondering how or if they can help others who are homebound and isolating now for many more weeks.
"We already have a strong voluntary network and community spirit in Sunderland and there may be more who want to know how they can help with this work."
Volunteers could be asked to support the NHS by delivering medicines from pharmacies, driving patients to appointments, bringing them home, or making regular phone calls to check on people isolating at home.
Fiona added: "The volunteers are for routine tasks, for shopping, the delivery of medicines and to support those who are shielded to protect their own health. Maybe you could take a dog for a walk?
"These acts of community kindness could in coming weeks make a real difference to many, many people and help in keeping some vulnerable people safe, well and out of hospital.
"We already have offers of support where organisations have offered us the use of their buildings or vehicles should we need them in coming weeks and months.
"There may be others in the community who haven't contacted us yet and where they can register their support and availability. Let us know if you can help."
If you can help, email volunteering@sunderland.gov. uk or call 0800 234 6084. For the most up-to-date advice visit: www.nhs.uk/coronavirus