Unit helping to support vulnerable people

A new volunteering unit has been set-up in County Durham to provide more support to local organisations and charities during the coronavirus pandemic.

It will provide a central location where groups needing additional help or practical resources can go to register that need. Its aim is to help manage offers of support from businesses and individuals that have volunteered their services and resources.

The unit is building on the work of County Durham Together, the community hub operated by Durham County Council to support people and families who are vulnerable and in need during these unprecedented times.

Staff will be able to match volunteers to groups across the county’s voluntary and community sector that have requested help in a number of different areas.

For example, many organisations are in need of extra staff,equipment,premises,vehicles,ITsupportandcommunicationsandmarketingskills.

The team is also working withkeyorganisations,including local charities and the care sector, to assess their requirements and establish where additional support may be needed.

Coun Brian Stephens, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and local partnerships, said: “We are thankful for all of the volunteering that is going on in the county and the feedback we are getting is that the groupsinvolvedaredoingsome trulyamazingworkindifficult circumstances.

“Whileourcommunityhub will continue to offer support to the vulnerable, this unit will seek to provide support to our amazingarmyofvolunteersfor local organisations and charities.”

More information at www. durham.gov.uk/volunteerunit