Staff from Ring Stones Maintenance and Construction have been volunteering their free time to help residents in their local community during the coronavirus outbreak.
James Macaree, Managing Director at Ring Stones, sent out a message to the team regarding some volunteering opportunities with Burnley Together, a newly established community hub to help those in need.
James was soon overwhelmed by the response from both furloughed team members and those who are still busy working on renovating properties to be used as temporary accommodation for vulnerable people.
More than 12 members of the team offered to work evenings, weekends and all hours in between to provide food parcels and deliveries to those who are unable to go outdoors to shops and pharmacies for many reasons, such as shielding, disabilities and being in high risk categories.
Burnley Together is providing an important service during the COVID-19 outbreak, tackling the challenges the pandemic has created for local people of all ages. The hub provides support to individuals facing issues such as loneliness and social isolation, requiring help with dog walking or financial and housing advice.
This can be accessed by visiting the website, emailing contact@burnleytogether.org.uk or calling 01282 686402. There is also up to date information available through the Facebook and Twitter channels.
Geoff Birkett, Multi-skilled Operative at Ring Stones and Burnley Together volunteer said: “I’d been seeing NHS staff and key workers doing so much to help on the front line and felt like a bit of a spare part. When James messaged and asked if I wanted to help with Burnley Together, I jumped at the chance.
“I’ve been a volunteer for almost four weeks now and it’s brilliant to be able to help my local community when they need it the most. I get up in the morning, head to the food bank and spend the day delivering parcels to peoples doorsteps. I see just how grateful they are and what massive difference it makes.”
James Macaree, Assistant Director at Ring Stones said: “Seeing how quickly our colleagues offered to help those in the community who need a bit of extra support during the crisis has been heart warming. The genuine willingness to give up their own time and band together without any hesitation shows that the values of our company run right through the whole team and I couldn’t be any prouder of them all.”
Alicia Foley, Community Investment Manager at The Calico Group said: “The work of volunteers in supporting the Burnley Together Hub is vital in delivering essential services to our local communities. We are grateful for all the hours that Ring Stones staff are giving to make sure everyone gets what they need at this difficult time. It is heart-warming to see more and more people showing the kindness we all need at the moment.”
