RCVS COVID-19 SUPPORT IN FULL SWING
Rushcliffe Community and Voluntary Service (RCVS) is leading the operation to help some of the area’s most vulnerable people during the coronavirus pandemic – and beyond.
Over 400 people have already registered for support in the borough, and the number is rising daily. We’re encouraging others to come forward and is also appealing for more volunteers to deliver the service.
The support includes practical help, such as shopping and collecting prescriptions. There are also regular welfare checks to counter social isolation. Feedback from those supported has been overwhelmingly positive, for example:
“What you’re doing is fantastic, knowing that you are here for me is very reassuring.”
“Your help and encouragement to me was priceless and I can’t say thank you enough.”
“It’s so lovely to have a friendly phone call and to know that I’m not alone.”
Many requests for help are coming directly from those who need it, but there have also been referrals from community nurses, social workers and housing providers. The Coronavirus Community Support Hub set up by Nottinghamshire County Council is expected to generate many more in the coming weeks.
All such requests are assigned to volunteers who then respond. RCVS is drawing on our volunteering experience, client management systems and networks to coordinate the project, working with a wide range of other organisations. We’re keen to hear from other agencies which want to get involved.
The service started in Cotgrave but has already grown to cover all of Rushcliffe, even though all RCVS staff are working from home.
RCVS Chief Executive Carolyn Perry said: “Many local communities are doing fantastic things during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re available to support their work and would urge people to seek help if they need it.
“We’re very proud to be playing a leading role. Regular calls to check the welfare of people at risk of social isolation are especially important. We’re also aware that the need will still be there, even once the current situation eases.
“We’re really excited about building on this with a view to creating a permanent telephone befriending service for the whole of South Nottinghamshire. This clearly fits in with our vision to help older, more vulnerable people keep their independence.”
RCVS has already recruited 146 new volunteers to provide COVID-19 support, but we’re still seeking more volunteering applications from local people who are not under any social isolating restrictions.
To be eligible for help, clients must be self-isolating, without local support and unable to access priority shopping slots for vulnerable people or their carers.
Anyone needing support can contact us on 0115 9699060 or email . Those interested in volunteering are asked to email .