A WEBSITE is offering Stirling's voluntary groups, individuals and businesses the opportunity to help those most in need during the coronavirus outbreak.

There has been an unprecedented number of offers to help since the start of the Covid-19 crisis according to Stirling Council and Stirlingshire Voluntary Enterprise (SVE), which created the website to help co-ordinate the response effort.

Primarily, there are four key volunteer roles people can undertake, but it is expected more will emerge in the coming weeks:

 

  • Befrienders to stay in touch with people over the telephone or using technology
  • Volunteer drivers
  • Volunteers to assist with essential groceries and collecting prescriptions
  • Volunteers to assist with food preparation for vulnerable people

Natalie Masterson, chief executive of Stirlingshire Voluntary Enterprise, said: “The voluntary sector has jumped into action to support Stirling’s most vulnerable citizens, with many organisations adapting their services and activities to meet the needs of the community during the crisis.

“They need volunteers desperately at this time, if can you volunteer to help your community tackle Covid-19 please do.”

Stirling Council says it is working closely with national partners, communities and third sector organisations to ensure everyone has access to the support they need throughout this challenging period, which has seen the nation placed under lockdown in a bid to reduce the spread of the virus.

Councillor Scott Farmer, council leader, added: “We work closely with Stirlingshire Voluntary Enterprise, the volunteering agency in the Stirling area, to connect people with volunteering opportunities that will make a big difference.

“It’s vital that we make sure the right help gets to the right people at the right time.

“In this ever-changing environment we’re ensuring that we capture every single offer of help available and get it directly to the most vulnerable.

“Anyone who can offer support and help should register online.”

Register to volunteer here