A new volunteering unit has been set up in County Durham to provide more support to local organisations and charities during the coronavirus pandemic.
The unit builds on the work of County Durham Together, the community hub operated by Durham County Council to support people and families who are vulnerable and in need during these unprecedented times.
It will provide a central location where organisations needing additional help or practical resources can go to register that need.
The aim of the unit is to help manage offers of support from businesses and individuals who have volunteered their services and resources in County Durham.
Staff will be able to match them to groups across the county’s voluntary and community sector who have requested help in a number of different areas. For example, many organisations are in need of extra staff, equipment, premises, vehicles, IT support and communications and marketing skills.
The team is also working with key organisations including local charities and the care sector to assess their needs and establish where additional support may be needed.
Any businesses which are able to offer support to charity groups or local organisations should fill in a form on the council’s website:
https://www.durham.gov.uk/volunteerunit
Any organisation or charity in need of either IT, financial, telephone and customer services support, or in need or resources such as premises, vehicles, drivers or other essential equipment, can also request help online at the same page https://www.durham.gov.uk/volunteerunit
