Over the last few weeks the Association of Voluntary Organisation in Wrexham (AVOW) have seen a tremendous effort in our community. Residents across Wrexham County Borough have pulled together to support and protect vulnerable individuals at this difficult time.
Support in our Communities
Families, friends, neighbours, Community Councils, Council Members, and volunteers have ensured that those in need in our communities aren’t left behind during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines, they have ensured that essential resources are available to everyone including food shopping, prescriptions, emotional support for households and even dog walking for our furry friends!
AVOW have also been supporting projects in Plas Madoc, through The Land, Little Sunflowers Childcare and We Are Plas Madoc to create benches for lonely residents to get the most out of their gardens and encourage people to talk over the fence to their neighbours!
What happens next?
Nearly 1,000 people have registered with AVOW, and hundreds more contributing at Street Level. The examples of good neighbourliness across the county has made a huge impact and allowed services to continue.
Thanks to this support, we will not be registering more volunteers. AVOW and those who have been supported, are truly grateful for everyone who has offered their time and expertise in the local area.
John Gallanders, Chief Officer of AVOW said “The level of volunteering and commitment shown by the 100’s of volunteers is a fantastic reflection on residents and organisations who have stepped up to take on new roles or expand what they were doing previously. Every hour that is offered is going to support those people who don’t have family, friends or neighbours that can assist them. We have many volunteers available and if anyone knows of someone who may need some support they can contact AVOW.”
Accessing Support
As the situation develops, AVOW and other agencies have noticed people becoming more anxious, increased sense of loneliness and a need for volunteers in emotional support roles. These come in many forms, such as checking-in on a neighbour or telephone befriending services.
AVOW have volunteers available for this support, as well as shopping, prescription collection and dog walking. You can identify your closest support network via our Wrexham Community Contact Map or contact one of the many local businesses offering support with food delivery through the Wrexham Local Retailer Map.
Contact
There are volunteers available in every ward, ready and waiting to be of assistance, many with DBS certificates. If you know anyone who needs help, support or would benefit from a friendly chat, please email COVID19@avow.org or telephone 01978 312556, 7 days a week.
