A new Suffolk-focused community service has been set up to support people who most need help during the COVID-19 pandemic. ‘Home, But Not Alone’ has been launched to help connect people who want to volunteer in their communities. This is in addition to the NHS GoodSAM scheme, which has already seen remarkable numbers of people come forward. As the number of offers and requests for help grows, these will be matched locally so that the right help can be provided where it’s most needed. This support could include delivering groceries, medication or essential household goods, in line with Government social distancing guidelines.
The diocese is a partner organisation alongside town and parish councils and other community groups. We are in the process of collating the information provided by parishes about the support already available through our Church and Lightwave groups as part of populating the system alongside others. Currently, there is no need to register if you are already serving as part of a church-led provision, but if you are not and would like to volunteer, we would encourage you to register by downloading the “Tribe – Volunteer” app. Please also note the ‘Home, But Not Alone’ telephone number - 0800 876 6926 - which can be given to those who are in need of additional support.
From the responses we received we know that we are involved in providing support in at least 80 locations across Suffolk. In many places we are working in partnership with other local groups, especially parish councils and local charities, to provide support in the community (shopping, picking up medication, practical jobs). Many are also active in providing telephone or online support to share information and advice and to counter isolation, and in supporting or providing foodbanks or food parcels.
Updated May 2020