A North East office solutions provider is showing true community spirit by helping vulnerable and high-risk individuals through the Coronavirus pandemic.
The team at Diamond Group, which is based in Team Valley, are giving up their personal time to deliver care packages to residents in and around the region who are self-isolating or unable to leave their house during lockdown, to support Age UK Northumberland.
Over 300 packages, made up of food and other essentials, have been filled and donated to the charity by local television personality, Vicky Pattison. Volunteers from Diamond will be distributing packages to homes and various depot centres.
John Burns, managing director of Diamond Group, said: “I always think it’s really important to give something back to the community, but during this time it’s more crucial than ever to get involved.”
The firm has worked with Age UK for over three years, providing IT and telecoms solutions as well as assisting its fundraising efforts. This latest volunteering venture comes after John interviewed Parry Jenkins, Head of Homecare for Age UK Northumberland, as part of Diamond Discussions, who mentioned that the charity would need help delivering meals.
Discussing the support, Parry said: “We couldn’t achieve what we’re doing without everyone’s help, so it’s very much appreciated.
“These are really challenging times and we are working hard to help as many people as we possibly can. There’s a lot more to do, so any resources that can be given to support our activities would be more than welcome.”
John added: “I’m so proud of our team for coming together to support Age UK Northumberland, especially those who are furloughed. Volunteering their own time and not expecting anything in return is a truly admirable gesture.
“It’s a great feeling to know we’re playing our part in what seems to be a call to action by all in the UK to tackle this wretched disease.”
As well as providing care packages to those in need, Age UK Northumberland is continuing to offer its information and advice, advocacy and befriending services via phone and online.
The charity is looking for volunteers in the region to support these core services during the pandemic, including making deliveries, sewing for PPE equipment and providing digital support. For more information visit https://www.ageuk.org.uk/northumberland/