Thinking about organising your local community to support people who are self-isolating?

20 March 2020

Please note: we are in regular contact with colleagues around the country and will update this guidance in line with good practice as it emerges >> Last updated: 19 March 2020

Here are some things to consider:

1. Are there existing organisations or groups already doing something which you could help with?

• Find out what else is going on in your area, for example Resident’s Associations, Good Neighbours schemes, Street Associations, Food Banks, Facebook or other social media groups
• Buckinghamshire Council are maintaining a list of organisations providing support
• If there isn’t enough being done in your local area, and you think you need to set up something separate, there are some pointers below to think about.

2. Is online the best or only way you should be reaching people?

• Bear in mind that people who may need the help may not be online and therefore not know where to find help. So think about non-electronic means both for publicity and for them to get in touch to request help.
• Social media is a good way to attract people to help, as well as to coordinate your efforts, but remember there may also be people who can help who are not using these platforms, so you may want to use other methods as well to reach them.
• Do make sure you add your group to the Buckinghamshire Council list.

3. Are you doing everything you can to keep people safe?

•  Think about how you will keep details of people, their requests for help, and details of those providing help, confidential and secure. See the ICO blog Community groups and COVID-19: what you need to know about data protection
• Think about how you will protect both parties (from infection and potential fraud) where any money is changing hands. See the Buckinghamshire Council website which gives advice for the person getting help with their shopping
• If the people that you are helping are vulnerable, it is good practice to complete a risk assessment, particularly in order to reduce the risk of spreading the virus and the risk of fraud when the exchange of money is involved.  There is a simple template here.
• Make sure you keep up-to-date with the latest guidance on how to deal with Covid-19 – check the Government COVID-19 response and the Government guidance on social distancing. 
• Take note of relevant aspects of the NCVO guidance, including details of charities which have provided additional guidance in relation to specific conditions which may affect some of the people needing help.

If we can help further please contact support@communityimpactbucks.org.uk .

Acknowledgment with thanks: Voluntary Support North Surrey for provision of some of the above content, including sample documents.

For all COVID-19 advice and guidance, go to our dedicated COVID-19 webpage

Back