Local Spotlight - Coronavirus Support for Vulnerable Darlington
During the pandemic many local organisations have suffered hardship with many services temporarily closing. But we'd like to shine the spotlight on those who've worked tirelessly for the Darlington public in keeping their community safe. Here's our Q&A with Kim Scott, the leader of Coronavirus Support for Vulnerable Darlington telling us all about their group...
- Can you tell us about your group and how the group started?
"The Group was started by myself at the very start. I was having a chat with my mam who I care for. She said to me, what would I do if I didn't have you. This made me think very hard about the people around me that hasn't got someone like myself to support them. I decided to put a post on Facebook to show that I am here if people need support. This got a unexpected amount of attention. I was advised to create a group for people to help or be helped and that was how the group started. Soon after this I met George and the rest is history."
2. Can you share how your group is making a difference and who you have helped?
"I feel the group has made a huge difference to young and older people's lives. We have heard many times that people felt lost at the start of the pandemic but now they feel supported in many ways."
3. Thinking about the pandemic and who you have helped, have you learnt anything from your experience?
"I have learnt so much from this amazing group, from IT skills to how many amazing people we have in our town."
4. What has been a highlight for your group so far?
"A highlight so far has got to be how we have linked with other support groups and professionals to enable we support everyone who needs the support in the most effective way."
5. What are your hopes for the future?
"I hope that the group can grow strong and stay strong to help and support people for much longer after the pandemic."
6. Do you have a message or words of encouragement for anyone who needs help or may be worried about lock down restrictions easing?
"You are not alone we are here 24/7 365 days a year to support you in any way we can. I would also just like to say thank you to each and everyone of the volunteers who work so hard everyday."
If you'd like support, you can submit your request easily - just click here.
In addition, their call centre is open 9am to 7pm seven days a week:
01325 978897
