Neighbourhood information needed to help combat Corona

The Council’s step to encourage volunteering is welcome.

But better coordination of the resources available is needed at neighbourhood level.

Those “self isolating” want to know which local shops are offering home delivery.

Residents need confirmation of which pharmacies are offering home delivery and with what capacity (any gaps could be filled by volunteers).

The Foxwood Residents Association is offering free social media and noticeboard publicity to local shops that

a) will deliver to doorsteps

b) accept remote payment – inclusive of delivery – by PayPal, card or bank transfer

c) Will take orders by email, phone or “on line” web site.

Any stores accepting contactless payments, and collection of food from a prearranged “in store” location (by volunteers), will also be acknowledged.

The Council needs to check and publicise regularly the availability of “on line” delivery slot availability at local branches of major supermarkets.

The Council could also coordinate the provision lists of stock shortages, of essential items, at local supermarkets. This would prevent unnecessary journeys

Message from York Council to volunteers

We want to make sure that support is directed to where it’s most needed, whether delivering food parcels, providing information, or sharing tasks like shopping or picking up medications.

“The physical and emotional health of residents is of the upmost importance and we are introducing a process to register, train and support volunteers.

“Volunteering tasks can also be done remotely for those who are not able to meet people. Examples include speaking to people on the phone or registering enquiries.

“The situation continues to evolve rapidly and therefore we are having to move fast. The Council will be contacting partners across the voluntary sector to discuss how best work together to make the most of available funding and support those most in need.

“Anyone interested in volunteering throughout this period should email volunteering@york.gov.uk and we will send more details direct. Alternatively please call the Customer Centre on 01904 551 550 and register your interest with the volunteer scheme.”

Find out how you can help your local community – tomorrow Saturday

Fancy trying out a graffiti removal kit? Joining the flood warden team? or simply want to make a difference in the local community?

Hazel-Court-EventIf so, join us during a hands-on information session at Hazel Court, on Saturday 15 October between 10am-12 noon.

The drop-in session will have City of York Council teams and partner agencies on hand with advice and demonstrations on how residents can get involved in their local community.

Throughout the morning council teams will be demonstrating how to use graffiti removal kits and litter pickers, enabling residents to tackle some of these problems first hand. Staff will also be demonstrating the One Planet York app which allows residents to check their recycling and waste collection dates amongst a host of other features.

Residents will also be able to learn more about volunteering opportunities from the council, Environment Agency and York CVS on roles such as being a flood warden or joining over 200 other residents and becoming a snow warden.

Cllr Andrew Waller, Executive Member for the Environment, said:“Volunteers are important, and many residents want to find out how they can take a more active role in their local community. This session will help people find out how the council will support them to do this. Many residents want to assist with taking pride in where they live, or else help with efforts during flood or snowy situations, so they can find out more by coming along.”

For more information about the event or volunteering opportunities in York, email: shapingneighbourhoods@york.gov.uk , call 01904 551832, or visit: www.york.gov.uk/volunteering