Change-Makers: Supporting The Vulnerable And Lonely

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For NCS Grad Rebekah, making sure everyone in her community felt supported was really important, especially during the current climate. That’s why, she chose to get involved with her local community group, Barlaston Community group, and set out on a mission to help the more vulnerable people in her village during lockdown.

“There are lots of vulnerable people who live alone and suffer with loneliness, or aren't mobile enough to go out and shop” said Rebekah, “The project focuses on making people feel happy and supported during this time, and to make sure that no one suffers while their community is here and happy to help!”

Through the community group - who ‘foster community spirit...and encourage neighbourliness within the village’ -  Rebekah was able to create and handout forms for anyone who needed a little extra help. 

Rebekah explained, “The forms, made by Balaton Community Group, say that I am here to help with shopping, having a chat on the phone, or any other need that someone may have.” Rebekah distributed the forms to vulnerable people within the village and put them up in the local shop.

For Rebekah, it was about more than just helping people individually. She said, “I enjoyed helping people in my area, but even more so being part of the community group looking after my local area.”

And the project has had a significant impact on the community! Rebekah and her friends have heard from many vulnerable people, friends, and older family members who needed help but weren’t sure how to get it. 

“This project has just been so rewarding!” Said Rebekah, “It’s ensured that the residents of my village and those who live alone have not faced unnecessary hardship during this time. It’s made them feel supported and loved by those living near them.”

And what about life after lockdown? Well, this isn’t something that will just fade away once life goes ‘back to normal’. Rebekah and her team have seen the positive impact it’s had, and have got to know their community better, and understand what help is needed and where. 

So they plan to keep it going in the future, and hope to bring in the help of Barlaston Community Group, with other plans to help out the village. 

“Barlaston Community Group does amazing work and will undoubtedly help keep this project going” Rebekah shared, “alongside other projects like a free car share scheme for the elderly. We want to just help all the people we can within the community.”

Want To Make A Difference Where You Are?

With government guidelines in place it may seem difficult to take on social action right now. But why not reach out to those who might feel lonely right now. Or see how Kazki and his team helped out their local NHS. 

And if you’ve already taken part in a social action project that you’re proud of, let us know! Tell us all about it here.