News

Be a key part of the COVID-19 response

26th March 2020

Over the past week, we have had an amazing response from volunteers wanting to support the most vulnerable members of our community and those affected by COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Here are a few ways you can get involved in Barnet:

• Start by offering to help a trusted neighbour and friends.
• Check-in with friends regularly, suggest a phone call or Skype conversation regularly who may be feeling isolated.
• Donate food or volunteer at your local food bank; you can check trusselltrust.org to find your nearest Foodbank.

Volunteering Barnet is currently working on a collective volunteer response with Barnet Together and Barnet Council so keep watching this space to find out more about how to volunteer to help people in Barnet.

The following organisations are in urgent need of volunteers:

• One Stonegrove Community Plan
• The Felix Project
• Homeless Action in Barnet

We are going to be updating this list weekly so please check back regularly to find out what organisations there are to support in the borough.

If you are already volunteering for a local COVID-19 response group or mutual aid group please share the details of your group with us so we can offer our support. If you want to volunteer locally with a neighbourhood volunteering initiative please read this post on how to stay safe while volunteering.

Other volunteer roles

Those over 70 years old (as well as people with health conditions) give so much time in volunteering and with the current health situation, many charities will not be supported with their valued volunteer hours. Therefore, if you are keen and able, then please consider giving your time to replace their effort and commitment.

At the moment, organisations will be working hard to arrange how they deliver services while also maintaining social distancing – but check the website regularly for new roles, especially volunteering at home to help organisations.

Some organisations are also recruiting for roles which volunteers will start when the current precautions end. They may interview over phone or Skype.

Lots of charities and organisations are struggling to continue their service right now. You can offer your support by volunteering for one of our registered volunteer roles. You can search and apply for roles here.

If you would like advice about volunteering, email our Volunteer Brokerage Coordinator Alice on enquiry@volunteeringbarnet.org.uk

Volunteering Barnet is closely monitoring the situation and proactively following healthcare and government advice from the World Health Organisation and Public Health England. Before volunteering, please make sure you have considered your own health, any caring commitments you may have and who you need to make aware that you are volunteering.