Volunteers in Walsall step up in coronavirus crisis

Voluntary sector body One Walsall is working with the council and coordinating the town’s response to the outbreak and the help and support that will go out to those that need it the most.

And within days of setting it up, 240 volunteers and more than 50 community groups have pledged their support to the cause.

A dedicated page has been created on One Walsall’s website where people can sign up to help, giving details of their skills and what they can help with.

At a Walsall cabinet meeting last Wednesday, Councillor Garry Perry, portfolio holder for community, leisure and culture, praised the spirit of town people and confirmed that One Walsall will log those who volunteer.

Alex Boys, chief executive officer of One Walsall said: “We are working with partners to help placement into the right places.

“This includes four community hubs supported by the council to coordinate support within communities, health and care organisations and children’s services.

“Walsall’s communities, and the voluntary, community and faith organisations which work alongside them are already playing a significant role in the response to the coronavirus outbreak and supporting those most vulnerable to the impact.

“We are blessed with active communities and strong community organisations already working hard to ensure support is available to those who need it.

One Walsall is working alongside Walsall Council to support and coordinate the community response, and to provide guidance and advice to local community action.

He said the website, which can be accessed at www.onewalsall.org, will allow volunteers to register, give details of activities taking place, give guidance, support and advice as well as regular updates.

Mr Boys said: “Whilst it’s might feel like there’s not much to be positive about right now, I’d highlight the incredible response we’ve already seen from local voluntary and community organisations and the residents of Walsall – we received over 60 offers to volunteer before we’d even launched the portal.

“We have an incredible community, and we’re already seeing how well we can respond to a difficult situation.

“We know that everyone has something to give and we are extremely grateful to all those who put themselves forward to help.”

Councillor Perry said: “If there is anything positive about this situation it is really showing us what are communities are both willing to do and how they are very quickly coming together.

“We thought we were already aware of what was out there in Walsall but what we are seeing is new groups flourishing, neighbourliness is becoming really important again.”