#CoronavirusKindness – How can you help?
Empty supermarket shelves have painted a bleak picture in recent days, however, many acts of #CoronavirusKindness are inspiring people across the country to bring back community spirit and combat the effects of impending social isolation, especially on those who are elderly or in the high risk categories.
So how can we all safely get involved?
Join a social support network
Since the corona outbreak, more than 200,000 people in the UK are now members of more than 300 local support groups set up to help those in isolation. Search for COVID-19 aid to find a group in your area and get involved. Remember that a little bit of kindness can go a really long way, so be part of your online community and join the conversation.
Be a neighbourly neighbour
Reconnect or even connect for the first time. There are many templates being circulated online, so pop a note or a postcard through a neighbour’s letterbox and offer to help with shopping, supply or errands. For the older generation, social media may not be on the radar and so why not offer to call them or ask them to call you if they fancy a chat. Never underestimate the power of hearing a friendly voice to combat loneliness.
Fuel your local food bank
As the virus spreads and supermarket shelves are being emptied, food banks face additional pressures, as fewer donations are being made. More people than ever need help, and so spare a thought for others and check with your local foodbank online or give them a call.
Support local shops
It has been well publicised that small businesses will be hit hard by the effects of the pandemic but there are ways we can all help. Try to still shop local where possible. Many local shops, restaurants and takeaways are providing local delivery services for free and so use them where possible and help to keep their businesses afloat. Or even consider buying a voucher to use at a later date. Perhaps order some flowers to be delivered to a family member or friend once restrictions are lifted.
Family and Friends
Whilst we are all moving towards social isolation this doesn’t mean we can’t stay in touch online and still ‘see’ those we care about regularly thanks to a plethora of technology. Organise virtual ‘get togethers’ using FaceTime or WhatsApp video. Catch up daily with photos, videos and calls. This will help to provide support in terms of positive mental health and well-being and will help to reduce feelings of isolation.
Give back by giving blood
Whilst we are all very much focused on self isolation to combat Covid-19, hospitals are still crying out for blood donations and so register and donate as soon as you are able. You can register to become a donor at www.blood.co.uk
Donate Beauty Buys
The ‘Beauty Banks’ charity supports people living in hygiene poverty in the UK by providing essential toiletries to people in poverty. On Sunday it launched an emergency virus appeal asking people to donate online to help support people in the UK who can’t afford essentials like hand wash, soap and hand sanitiser.
So try and remember that even when we feel helpless we can always help someone else with a kind word, or a kind act. These simple steps can really make a difference for someone who is lonely, unwell or struggling with poor mental health, and community spirit will go a very long way in helping us all through the months ahead.
