Fifth of West Midlands people involved in volunteering since lockdown began
More than one in five people in the West Midlands have been involved in volunteering since the coronavirus lockdown began, new research has said.
According to a study on Britain's economy during isolation, 22 per cent of people in the region have volunteered to help others – which is three per cent higher than the national average – while nearly 60 per cent of West Midlanders have done food shopping for other people.
The research, by Legal & General and Cebr, also reveals that three in five people are planning to use more local shops such as butchers and fishmongers after the lockdown is over.
Across the UK around 10 million adults are said to be serving as an informal ‘volunteering army’, supporting local communities and helping vulnerable people. The work has an equivalent value of £357 million, according to the research, with each individual contributing on average three hours of their time.
Nigel Wilson, CEO at Legal & General said: "Being more isolated has made us also more inclusive. Britain’s community spirit has doubled down in lockdown, forging an informal army of volunteers who are now a key part of our national infrastructure in the crisis.
"Individuals and families have come together and created new ties across communities, cutting across age, income and circumstances.
"We have become a nation of volunteers during the Covid crisis. And – judging by the millions who plan to continue after the lockdown – it is a change that is here to stay."
Sam Ward, deputy CEO for Royal Voluntary Service, said: "As restrictions ease for some, many older and vulnerable people will remain isolating at home, in desperate need of practical support, mental stimulation and companionship.
"Royal Voluntary Service has mobilised to respond to Coronavirus through a massive, co-ordinated volunteer effort.
"The public response has been a beacon of hope during this crisis with legions of people stepping forward to volunteer and help others.
"Our volunteer army is needed more than ever before to meet the need older people continue to face now, and over the coming months as they try to re-build their lives."
