COVID-19 – What can I do right now to help?

We know that this is a tough time, and that it’s hard to know what to do to help during COVID-19.

As a team, we’ve been astounded by the number of incredible people who have come forward wanting to help during COVID-19.

As a result, we’ve come up with the following ways you can do a little something whilst maintaining precautions yourself:

Firstly, stay in touch with your loved ones.

• Even a five minute phone call on a regular basis will make a huge difference. And something like a care pack or letter will brighten their day during this time. There is a chance older people will be isolated for a prolonged period of time, so start these good habits now if you can.

Secondly, consider what you can do for vulnerable family members who may not live nearby.

• Can you organise a supermarket delivery for them? Can you set up a regular call or video chat? Can you help them organise for someone to drop off medicine or essentials to them? There’s a lot you can do from afar that will make a difference.

Thirdly, think about your neighbours who are older and vulnerable.

• If you already have a relationship with any of your neighbours, why not pop a note through the door to see if you can help? There’s a lot you can do without direct contact (that might put them at risk). Such as picking up bits from the shops or walking their dog, and this could make a big difference.

Finally, keep supporting local charities, services and businesses.

• For many older people, local and accessible businesses and projects are essential. And we need them to survive long term so that they are there for older people when the isolation period is over.

This is going to be a tough time for lots of smaller local organisations. So if you can, keep supporting these local organisations. It will make a long term difference to older people’s communities!

We will be updating our social media on a regular basis with information and opportunities.

For further advice around COVID-19 and ideas, check out our friends at Volunteer Edinburgh and Age Scotland.