Centralised volunteer service launches in Guernsey

Guernsey charities have come together to form a central volunteer service to help support public health services during the coronavirus pandemic.

Volunteer Guernsey has been formed by the Guernsey Community Foundation, the Association of Guernsey Charities (AGC) and St John Ambulance Guernsey.

It will maintain a register of willing volunteers and direct them to charities and individuals facing hardship as a result of the current crisis.

The new body will work alongside Health Connections, the Guernsey Voluntary Service and Carers Guernsey as well as the States to make sure help is reaching those who need it.

Jim Roberts from Guernsey Community Foundation says it is vital that there is a coordinated effort to provide services for islanders.

Trained staff will take calls from islanders about how they would like to help, asking questions about infection control.

St John will then arrange for police checks to be carried out so that the volunteer can be added to a database and called upon when required.

Volunteer Guernsey is asking charities to send details of their specific needs through its website and volunteers can register their interest and find out more from recruitment@stjohn.gg.