Press Release

1 June 2020

Fareham Borough Council thanks its volunteers

As we mark national Volunteer Week (1 – 7 June) Fareham Borough Council would like to say a special thank you to the volunteers who have helped in its response to the pandemic.

Since the start of the coronavirus crisis, the Council has been working with hundreds of volunteers who have played a crucial part in supporting residents in need.

The Council has established links with a number of local charitable organisations and they, and many other groups and individuals across the Borough, have risen to the challenge. These volunteers responded quickly and teamed up with the Council to set up a network of help.

When the Fareham and Gosport Basics Bank was forced to temporarily close due to several of its volunteers self-isolating, other volunteers worked around the clock to collect the supplies and deliver them to the Council’s new distribution centre.

Volunteers have been supporting residents every day, whether it be by delivering daily essentials, collecting prescriptions or phoning someone who is self- isolating for a friendly chat. They have helped 1000s of households since the start of the pandemic.

The effects of the pandemic have been far reaching and trained voluntary advisors have stepped up to respond to an increasing need for advice on money worries, employment matters and relationship issues.

Executive Member for Leisure and Community at Fareham Borough Council, Cllr Sue Bell, said:
“We are so grateful to our network of volunteers, some of whom came forward to volunteer for the first time. Their work has been invaluable to the Borough’s most vulnerable residents in these very challenging times. We know the crisis isn’t over yet and the Borough’s volunteers will continue to play an essential role. On behalf of all my fellow Councillors, thank you for everything you do.”

You can find out more about the Council’s work with local voluntary organisations, including details of how to donate to the charities, here.

ENDS