Coronavirus: Northamptonshire's volunteer army asked to register with emergency planners

Volunteers have been mobilising their efforts across the county to help out amid the virus emergency.

The county’s emergency planning team is calling on the army of community groups and good samaritans who are helping the vulnerable and those self isolating to register with them so they can map the services being provided across Northamptonshire.

The Northamptonshire COVID-19 Community Resilience team has thanked those who have formed networks to help those who are being affected by the public health crisis.

Deputy Chief Executive at Northamptonshire County Council, Anna Earnshaw, said: “It is incredible how many people have made themselves available to help those most in need in these extraordinary times. It is these examples of selfless community spirit which will help us through this. We are aware people are advertising their services in their local areas through Facebook or mail drops. The level of community response is amazing to see.

“We are asking these support groups to contact us and register their details. This will not only mean they will be able to receive the very latest up to date information about the current situation in their local area, it will also allow them to access essential supply chains for the people needing help. It will also allow us to point them to people that we know need help.

“We will also be able to map out where such offers of support are available in the county and where there are areas of less support which need addressing. Together we can work to ensure those people who need the most help receive it.

“If you are not already part of one of these groups and nothing exists in your area at the moment, there is nothing to stop you setting up your own support network.”

The forum said that as social distancing measures increase and the public are urged to stay at home, these groups and individuals play an increasingly important role in

keeping our most vulnerable people safe and stocked up with medications

and supplies.

Groups can register by either completing an online form here or by emailing [email protected]