Volunteers working in communities across South Lanarkshire are being assured of continued support despite the latest COVID-19 restrictions.
That’s the message from South Lanarkshire Council and Voluntary Action South Lanarkshire (VASLan) this week, along with their thanks for ‘unprecedented levels’ of community involvement throughout the pandemic.
Both organisations are also keen to reassure groups and individuals working in communities, that both the council’s community wellbeing phoneline and VASLan’s volunteering registration portal are open and ready to help.
Councillor Maureen Chalmers, chairperson of the community planning partnership, said: “Since March last year when COVID first affected our lives, we have seen unprecedented levels of support from individuals and third sector and voluntary groups working collectively, alongside the statutory agencies, to support the wider community.
“In fact, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the scale of engagement in these 10 months has been phenomenal, and we want once again to thank every person and group who has given their time to help us to support those who need it most.
“As we yet again face additional restrictions, we would like to offer reassurance that both South Lanarkshire Council and VASlan remain committed to supporting and nurturing community networks and their efforts to protect the communities of South Lanarkshire.”
Volunteers with concerns about being out and about during the new period of restrictions are also being offered letters of authorisation in support of their activities in the community.
Charlie Duffin, operations and strategic manager for VASlan, added: “One question we have already been asked is about the need for letters of authorisation for volunteers.
“ While we have been assured that Police Scotland will not be asking for these, we understand there are other reasons for carrying them. If you previously had a letter of authorisation, this is still valid. We can also arrange for new volunteers to be issued with these or to resend existing ones if they have been mislaid.”
The council’s community wellbeing line is 0303 123 1009 and provides advice and support for anyone who is self-isolating or vulnerable and whose usual support network is not available.
VASLan’s Volunteering registration portal is open to anyone who wants to offer help in their community volunteers.
