A growing network of volunteers across Monmouthshire have been praised for their efforts during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Monmouthshire County Council has been overwhelmed by the support and kindness of communities which has flooded in over the last month. Volunteers and community groups across the county have been pivotal in strengthening resilience and supporting those most in need during this difficult time.

The council is currently working with 83 lead co-ordinators across 60 self-organised community groups. Through the delivery of their support, volunteers have been able to prepare and deliver 2,647 hot meals or bags of food free of charge to people in need and the most vulnerable, with over 656 active volunteers known to be helping their communities. These volunteers have answered 2,110 requests for help, with one volunteer-led group in the Chepstow area having received over 1,200 phone calls from people looking for support. The offers of help have included shopping, collecting prescriptions, making a regular friendly phone call, walking dogs, posting letters, delivering recycling bags and even a television repair!

The Community and Partnership Development team continues to work closely with volunteer action groups to offer support, advice and help with coordination. This is carried out by area development teams who support the large network of volunteer action groups. The team is also able to offer a safe recruitment service for people wanting to volunteer during the COVID-19 pandemic, which includes a free DBS check, safeguarding training and support. 

The Community and Partnership Development team’s ongoing work includes:

• Building a picture of the volunteer requirements for each of the community action groups.  This allows the introduction of new volunteers where appropriate based on need.

• The processing of over 100 volunteers with an enhanced DBS, safeguarding training and guide to volunteering during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

• Issuing guidance to volunteers relating to current PPE requirements.

• Issuing of badges and lanyards to volunteers to allow them to carry out their duties safely and without difficulty.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Chairperson, Councillor Sheila Woodhouse said: “The sense of community spirit in Monmouthshire has always been wonderful but now it has stepped up and it is very obvious that people are looking after each other. I would just like to a say an enormous thank you to everybody. Everyone has been helping and your actions continue to improve the lives of others. We will get through this together.”

Residents who wish to become involved with a local action group or needing the support the Community and Partnership Development team should contact partnerships@monmouthshire.gov.uk or 01633 644696.