Alnwick volunteers set up new group to support communities during the coronavirus outbreak

Mutual Aid Alnwick has been set up to publish details about the running of errands, information distribution and community/emotional support.

It is particularly keen to ensure there is support for the most vulnerable, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Founder Katie Roskams said: “Mutual aid groups have been springing up across the country as a response to the covid-19 crisis and the idea is that in the long term, solidarity rather than individualism is much more beneficial to all of us.

“Having an informal and non-hierarchical group on a local level allows us to organise ourselves and get help to people who need it, whether that's picking up shopping for a neighbour who's self-isolating, passing on relevant news updates locally and nationally, or checking in with people by phone or social media.

“It's about taking direct action to support our communities and help one another to get through this, and about working with existing groups too.”

It has been sharing details of support being provided by local shops, those making food deliveries and providing links to support services such as Northumberland County Council.

The page now has more than 200 members.

“Anyone's welcome to join the group, whether they want to offer or ask for support or just check what's happening at a local level, and since not everyone's on social media and we don't want to leave anyone behind, we'd encourage people to help spread the word,” said Katie.

Visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/646477589487984/

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