Remarkable Organisations Going Above and Beyond During COVID-19

National Volunteer’s week is an annual celebration of the contribution that millions of people make across the UK through volunteering.

Whilst we wash our hands, avoid large gatherings and follow crucial safety guidelines, communities across the country are going above and beyond to help those affected by the coronavirus. Back in March, Liverpool City Council's volunteer helpline had over 1,000 people sign up in the first 24 hours, with many more offering their services to help the elderly and vulnerable in our society.

Here are just some of the remarkable organisations who are showing there is hope out there and that people are still pulling together during this crisis to help others.

The Trussell Trust

The Trussell Trust supports a nationwide network of food banks and together provide emergency food and support to people locked in poverty, and campaign for change to end the need for food banks in the UK.

Wheel Meet Again

A Liverpool group that helps pensioners facing social isolation has transformed its service to help those in need during coronavirus access essential support and supplies. The community organisation based at South Central Community Transport on Mill Street in Liverpool 8, is already transforming its approach to combating social isolation for the over 50s, as it plans to use its fleet of community transport vehicles to help the elderly and vulnerable who are self-isolating due to Coronavirus.

FoodCycle Liverpool

FoodCycle Liverpool is one of 41 projects around the country which takes surplus food from supermarkets and local independent retailers which would otherwise go to waste, turning Into tasty and nutritious three course meal served to anyone in need of food. FoodCycle Liverpool has been serving weekly meals in St Cleopas Church in Toxteth since 2014.

To find out more about FoodCycle or to donate food or volunteer, email liverpool@foodcycle.org.uk

Age Concern Liverpool & Sefton

Around 200 volunteers support Age Concern working hard to improve the lives of older people in the area. Their free of charge service is there to help people who are feeling vulnerable, lonely and isolated and live within Sefton. They offer a range of services including care and support, exercise and skills through advice, activities and support. Age shouldn’t be a barrier to achievement.

Liverpool Football Club Emergency Foodbank Appeal

The LFC Emergency Foodbank Appeal provides fans the opportunity to make a charitable donation to support the Trussell Trust Foodbank network, which provides emergency assistance to families and vulnerable people living in food poverty.

The charitable arms of the club, LFC Foundation and Red Neighbours, are working alongside Liverpool City Council and the Mayor’s office to support the city’s coordinated response to supporting people in need during the Coronavirus outbreak.

Passmate Are Offering Driving Lessons to NHS & Key Workers

During the Coronavirus, many services have ceased including the services of Passmate, who match you to partner drivers based on preferences and learning style. Whilst driving lessons are a no-go at the moment, Passmate has found a way for critical workers, including those in the NHS, to have subsidised driving lessons during this time of uncertainty in Liverpool, Chester and Wirral. Their initiative called

The Passmate Critical Worker Programme is to facilitate driving lessons to key workers, making this opportunity more affordable, accessible and as flexible as needed.

We wholeheartedly admire all of those who are working hard for the NHS, the unsung heroes and on the front line during this difficult time. You are all an inspiration to us.