Dorset residents are urged to make a difference this winter by supporting their neighbours and local communities.
As the economic impact of COVID-19 continues to bite and with less opportunities to see family and friends, many people are facing financial hardship and loneliness this winter.
Partners in the #DorsetTogether community response to COVID-19 are urging residents to get into the Christmas spirit and make a difference to those who might be struggling.
You can make a difference by offering support to your local community in the following ways:
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Check in on neighbours
One of the easiest ways you can make a difference is by checking in with the people on your own doorstep. If you’re feeling a bit isolated yourself, it’s also a good way of breaking the ice and getting to know your neighbours.
Volunteer Centre Dorset have put together a guide to neighbourly volunteering over Christmas with creative ideas to spread Christmas cheer in a Covid-safe way.
Marie Waterman from the Volunteer Centre Dorset said:
“Whether it’s dropping in a Christmas card and having a socially distanced chat or simply checking if someone needs something from the shops – sometimes it’s the smallest things that can make the biggest difference.
“If you’re offering to help someone it’s best to keep things simple and only commit to what you can realistically manage.
“Bear in mind too that it’s not just elderly or vulnerable people who might need some help. Spare a thought for key workers, young families, or people living alone – there are many people who might be struggling at this time.”
The Dorset Volunteer Centre have created a flyer with useful contact numbers which you can share with people who might be struggling over the winter period.
Download and print the Dorset Together at Christmas – Flyer (please note this file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology).
2. Support your local foodbank
Figures from the Trussell Trust show that foodbanks have faced record levels of need this year.
If you can afford to, think about donating to your local foodbank next time you do your grocery or supermarket shop.
Some foodbanks are appealing for toy donations for families struggling to afford Christmas presents for children, others are appealing directly for cash donations to help keep their services going.
Find contact details for Dorset’s foodbanks and information about the support they need over Christmas.
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Volunteer in your community
The Help and Kindness community database is sharing details of the community support and special events being organised in the run-up to Christmas and over the holiday period.
Find a group that needs your help.
Alternatively, if you want to help your local community but aren’t sure where to start, the Volunteer Centre Dorset can match you to volunteering opportunities in your area. These can include:
- shopping for food or making food deliveries
- collecting prescriptions
- dog walking
- telephone befriending
- supporting education settings or transport, healthcare and other community services
Sign up to become a volunteer with Volunteer Centre Dorset.
Cllr Jill Haynes, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Customer and Community Services said:
“Christmas is a time for giving and this year, of all years, we should be looking into our hearts and thinking of ways in which we can reach out and offer support to others.
“There are some really simple ways you can make a difference to people struggling this winter, without necessarily needing to give up lots of time or spend lots of money.
“Make the effort to talk to your neighbours, donate something to your local foodbank or give up some time to help someone in need – small acts of kindness can go a long way.”
More ways to help this winter
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Help keep kids Cosy at Christmas
Following the launch of our Cosy at Christmas Appeal, new and nearly new coats and pyjamas for children have been flooding in across Dorset.
We’re now encouraging parents and carers to come and pick-up items for free from Monday 14th December.
Find locations and opening times of pick-up points and help spread the word to a family who you think could benefit.
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Surviving Winter Appeal
According to government estimates, there are 19,000 people in Dorset living in fuel poverty – this means they cannot afford to heat their home.
The Dorset Community Foundation is working with Citizens Advice to distribute grants of £200 to people in need so they can afford to heat their homes without scrimping on food.
If you can afford to, donate to the Surviving Winter Appeal.
What is Dorset Council doing to help people this winter?
Dorset Council and partners in the community response to COVID-19 are working together to offer help and support to struggling residents this winter.
We’re focusing on families with children, people in financial difficulties and those facing loneliness and isolation over the festive season.
