Kirklees Together

Golcar Covid-19 Mutual Aid

Like many of us, in March this year, a wave of worry and concern came over Golcar resident Jane Smith. The uncertainly of the pandemic, the country going into lockdown, self-isolation for many households and the worry for her own elderly parents meant she wanted help. Within hours, Jane sprang into action. With a simple search online and chatting to local friends and relatives, she established the Golcar Covid-19 Mutual Aid Group.

Community volunteers

A network of over 30 volunteers quickly grew during the first few days of lockdown. Initially, the group had over 3,500 leaflets printed and delivered, set up their own Facebook group and had a dedicated freephone number for resident and loved ones to call if they needed assistance.

Residents share their talents

The group has grown over the past few months with 167 Good Neighbour Volunteers on hand to help. Volunteers have dedicated their free time to helping deliver shopping, food parcels, collect prescriptions, established a weekly call back service for those self-isolating and not forgetting the “Collie Squad”, a dog walking service, helping the team of volunteers stay fit and healthy!

It seems that Golcar has a wealth of talent, with many industrious makers sewing laundry bags, scrubs and making ear protectors, which have been donated to Kirklees hospitals and care homes.

Jane said

“In our village we have telecoms specialists, IT experts, professional machinists, (even one couturier!) , florists, librarians, knitters, crocheters, sewers, cardmakers, artists, locksmiths, electricians, plumbers that each in their own way have contributed. I count myself lucky to live in such a lovely place with such wonderful people.”