HUNDREDS of Worcester people who selflessly give up their time to help others are being celebrated this week.
City residents have volunteered their services since the outset of the coronavirus pandemic – and community support groups have sprung up across the city.
The St Peters Coronavirus Support Group has responded to more than 200 calls since late March from local residents who are shielding or having to self-isolate.
Age UK in Worcester has relied extensively on volunteers to cope with the increased demand for support over the last couple of months.
Whilst the lockdown is tough for everyone, it’s been even more so for people with no home.
Retired languages teacher Gerry Lowman has offered literacy and numeracy support to homeless people in Worcester for the last 14 years. She now voluntarily runs photography, film and poetry writing sessions, with the aim of promoting well-being, through a new support group she’s set up called Creating Links .
“This pandemic hasn’t broken community spirit here in Worcester – it has strengthened it,” said Coun Jo Hodges, the city’s new Mayor.
“Some people have volunteered with well established organisations, but many others have spontaneously helped neighbours, friends and complete strangers throughout this crisis.
“You represent the very best of Worcester; this city simply couldn’t function without people like you,” she added.
Coun Hodges also praised the work of volunteers at the Worcester Community Trust – one of her designated mayoral charities – who have been sourcing and delivering food parcels to residents facing financial hardship during the pandemic.
