BELFAST support organisation Volunteer Now has launched an online campaign #HelpEachOther to support those wanting to help people impacted in the current coronavirus crisis.
Members of the public and businesses can register at volunteernow.co.uk/volunteering/helpeachother, where they will be offered roles such as telephone befriending, undertaking light shopping, walking the dog or packing food hampers.
The charity insists volunteering in a safe environment is crucial for all involved, and it has developed proper practice guidance for those volunteering.
The campaign has been endorsed by Minister for Communities Deirdre Hargey.
She said: “We are working closely with Volunteer Now to support a co-ordinated response to the need for community support for those most vulnerable and isolated within our communities.
“This includes working with Sport NI, the NI Sports Forum and Sports Governing Bodies to mobilise a cohort of skilled and motivated volunteers to support critical services, as well as identifying other key resources such as sports grounds, halls and vehicles.”
Volunteer Now chief executive Denise Hayward says: “In line with UK guidance everyone has been asked to stay at home and therefore there are many people who may feel isolated and worried.
“We are getting more and more calls from the public with offers of help and we feel that it's important we channel these offers whether one-off or on-going to those most in need.
“Community spirit is alive and well, and this campaign will harness our desire to do good and to make sure people don't feel they are on their own.”
