Jedburgh volunteers lend a helping hand during lock down

A total of 57 teams are working under Scottish Borders Council’s resilient communities groups and with community assistance hubs to prodive food and medication deliveries to those shielding or self-isloating across the Borders.

In Jedburgh, more than 70 volunteers came forward in just one week and are now working across five zones providing deliveries of shopping, prescriptions and protective equipment as well as a dog walking service across five zones in the town. The group has seen increase in demand of over 60% in one month.

Jedburgh co-ordinator Georgiana Craster said: “When the community council first set up the Jedburgh resilience community and I volunteered to be co-ordinator we had no idea that Jedburgh, together with other towns and cities across Scotland, the UK and across the world, would have to face a pandemic.

“As a team of co-ordinators and volunteers, we have jumped through hoops, learnt things that we didn’t know before, and worked hard to support the people of the town.

“We hope to provide that support seven days-a-week and are grateful to the fantastic group of volunteers who and working with us so that we can all get through this together.”

Vulnerable residents, including those self-isolating because of virus symptoms, people over 70 and those advised to stay indoors because of existing health conditions, are being referred to the group by housing associations, social workers, Borders Carers Centre and charities Red Cross and Penumbra. Anyone needing help or who is keen to volunteer can call 07943 262460 or email [email protected].