VOLUNTEERS who have helped keep their communities safe for nothing in return have been praised by Welsh Government.

Deputy minister and chief whip, Jane Hutt, today thanked the legion of local helpers across Wales – those who are working hard to help keep you and your loved ones safe and cared for in these very difficult times.

Jane said: “It has been heart-warming to hear about the many ways that communities have come together right across Wales, throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, to protect and support the most vulnerable amongst us.

“The Stay Home rules are difficult for everyone, but they are in place to slow the spread of the virus and to keep us all safe, protect the NHS and save lives.

“We continue to face a very serious situation. Cases in Wales are very high and our NHS is under real pressure, but community groups and charities are still looking after people who are isolating, or who need support.

“I want to say thank you to all the community volunteers who are working so hard, and to say that support is available in your local area if you need it. People can help you by delivering food and prescriptions, or through regular phone calls for a chat.

“If you would like to help in your local neighbourhood, or need support, contact your local county voluntary council – they can put you in touch with people working in your community.”

Local examples of the support which is available in Flintshire were highlighted.

Nanny Biscuit is a community organisation in Flintshire which has set up clever ways to provide food and emotional support to the most vulnerable in the community, from pen pals and Christmas card deliveries to hot food deliveries to the homeless.

James Hunt, founder of Nanny Biscuit, said: “We’re bringing back old fashioned values like pen pal support between the young and old, as well as helping with shopping deliveries and emergency food packs.

“I’m passionate about involving children in community work, as it sows the seeds early and highlights the importance of helping each other, and feeling good about it.”

Meanwhile, Flintshire Local Voluntary Council is a social prescribing service, handling referrals from social workers, GPs and district nurses, and supporting individuals who self-refer for any health, social care or wellbeing support need.

They then signpost and support the individual to access appropriate voluntary and community support services.

Millie Boswell, third sector development manager for Flintshire Local Voluntary Council, said: “We’re in a position to connect those who need support with the organisations and individuals who can support them. It’s all about what matters to that individual. The breadth of third sector support available is fantastic - there are over 3000 different groups and organisations here in Flintshire alone.

“Local county voluntary councils right across Wales will be able to put you in touch with services in your local area. You are not alone – support is available to you.”