Welsh Government funding to support volunteers and country’s most vulnerable

An initial funding package totalling almost £40 million has been outlined by the Welsh Labour Government to help support the nation’s voluntary sector during the coronavirus pandemic.

Wrexham’s Assembly Member, Lesley Griffiths has welcomed the additional funding and praised the inspiring response and admirable efforts of local volunteers.

Last week the Welsh Government announced an initial fund of £24 million to provide immediate support to Wales’ most vulnerable and help coordinate the thousands of willing volunteers wanting to help others during the current crisis.

A very particular group of people have been identified by the NHS as being ‘extremely vulnerable’ and these people have been asked to undertake much stricter shielding measures.  Approximately 75,000 people in Wales have been placed on this carefully complied list and letters have been sent by the Chief Medical Officer to those identified.

The people at high risk are being advised to stay at home for 12 weeks and a further £15 million will ensure these people receive direct deliveries of food and other essential items to their door on a weekly basis.

As the country continues to come to terms with the measures imposed by governments, the crisis has help harness a positive community spirit in the fight against the virus.

The Welsh Government launched the ‘Looking out for each other campaign’ to help people staying at home because of COVID-19.  The campaign focuses on the small things we can do to help each other during the pandemic and more information can be found at www.gov.wales/safe-help

Since early March, the Welsh Government has encouraged people to register their interest to volunteer safely during the coronavirus pandemic via the Volunteering Wales website.  There are also opportunities for people who are self-isolating to get involved, such as taking part in phone and social media befriending schemes.

Alternatively, residents interested in volunteering locally are also being encouraged to contact the Association of Voluntary Organisations in Wrexham (AVOW).

Lesley Griffiths AM said: “Despite the challenging circumstances, it has been heartening to see and hear all about the people offering up their time to help out in their local community.”

“Whether supporting a neighbour, the foodbank or the NHS, a great number of individuals, groups and businesses have made a real and positive difference.  Many people have also contacted me asking how they can help and I thank each and every one of them for their generosity in this time of need.“

“People must obviously keep themselves safe but if you’re well and wish to volunteer in some capacity, please visit the websites mentioned or contact AVOW.”

“Together, we can weather the coronavirus storm and come out on the other side stronger.”