How to sign up as a Red Cross volunteer in Wales during coronavirus crisis

The British Red Cross is looking for volunteers in Wales to help people affected by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

So far 1,282 people in Wales have signed up as British Red Cross community reserve volunteers (CRVs) alongside more than 21,000 others in the UK.

The volunteers are a network of people ready to help in an emergency and they support their community by sharing public health messages, connecting with others safely, and helping provide basic supplies.

Fran, a Red Cross volunteer in the north of Wales who is now retraining to support people during the coronavirus crisis, said: “We want to be there for people in their hour of need because we want to help.”

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These volunteer networks will have an important role to play in the months ahead. The Red Cross is encouraging everyone to undertake simple acts of kindness such as checking in on friends, family, and neighbours, via phone where possible.

Volunteers are a crucial way for the British Red Cross to support people in crisis and the charity, in partnership with hyperlocal platform InYourArea, is encouraging people to sign up. It takes just five minutes to register by visiting www.redcross.org.uk/kind.

Kate Griffiths, British Red Cross director for Wales, said: “We’re living in an uncertain time and we know that many people may be feeling helpless and afraid for themselves and their loved ones. In these difficult days it’s more important than ever to be kind to ourselves and to each other and to protect the most vulnerable members of our society.  

“We know connected communities are stronger communities and that small acts of kindness make a big difference so many of you are already doing this.  

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“We want to thank everyone for the kindness they can have by signing up to join us as community reserve volunteers – you will play a part in helping your local community and this country through this unprecedented global health emergency.  

“The British Red Cross has been part of this nation’s history for over 150 years and has supported this country through some of its most difficult times.”