Chris Matheson MP joins Coordinated Community Response

Chris Matheson, Member of Parliament for the City of Chester, has joined a growing number of people and organisations in the coordinated community response to tackle the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on local communities in Cheshire West and Chester.

Chris said:

"I have been really heartened to see so many people mobilising in their community to support their neighbours in this time of crisis.  

"I think it is really important that we understand where there is activity taking place on the ground so that local groups can be supported with up to date information and new volunteers in the community can be directed to groups that are getting set up near to where they live.  

"We also need to be mindful of duplication, safeguarding issues and ensure that when things get set up, they are sustainable for the duration of this crisis."

The Coordinated Community Response has been created by Cheshire West and Chester Council, Cheshire West Voluntary Action (CWVA) and the voluntary and community sector, all working closely together to provide an opportunity for residents to volunteer in the fight against COVID-19.

An online form has been created for residents to pledge their support for local communities, helping to make sure west Cheshire’s most vulnerable residents have access to things like essential food and medical supplies, as well as somebody to keep in touch with during any periods of self isolation.

Once residents have completed the online form, CWVA will signpost them to the charities and community groups in their area so they can do their bit to help their neighbours and tackle COVID-19.

The form to register your interest as a volunteer is here: https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/news-and-views/incidents/coronavirus-covid-19/how-you-can-help.aspx and you can also highlight any activity you are aware of already taking place in your area.

If you are a local charity or community group and would like to share your current activities, please email: enquiries@chesterva.org.uk. Businesses wanting to get involved with the community response can also email the same address.