MSP CALLS ON MIDLOTHIAN AND EAST LOTHIAN RESIDENTS TO VOLUNTEER DURING PANDEMIC

​SNP MSP Colin Beattie has called on residents to volunteer in their communities during the coronavirus pandemic.
A new ‘Scotland Cares’ campaign has been launched to encourage people to volunteer.
While the most important ask for the public remains to stay at home and follow the essential public health guidance, people who are healthy and not at risk can volunteer to provide practical or emotional help to those most in need.
Those wanting to volunteer to support their communities have three options which are signposted from the Ready Scotland website:
• returning NHS workers will be directed to existing voluntary arrangements in NHS Scotland
• people wishing to offer their support to our public services, including the NHS and local authorities, will be directed to a site co-ordinated by the British Red Cross
• those looking for opportunities with other charities or community groups in their area will be directed to Volunteer Scotland for information
Commenting, SNP MSP Colin Beattie said:
“In these difficult times, people across Midlothian and East Lothian want to make a difference in their community.
“While not everyone will be able to volunteer, this new Scottish Government campaign will help people to make a real difference. 
“The Scottish Government is working closely with local government and a range of partners to co-ordinate the volunteering effort across Scotland.
“Through the readyscotland.org website, we can connect people to where their contribution is most needed in their local community.
“For some, that may involve roles responding to specific needs in health and social care. For others, it may be that we draw on their skills, enthusiasm and energy in the weeks and months to come.
“It is important to remember that the most helpful thing many of us can continue to do to help the NHS is to stay at home and follow all COVID-19 guidance.”