Contact has been extended by the AGC to more than 320 charities registered with it to ensure the delivery of community services can continue.
Assistance has been offered to charities struggling with event cancellations or volunteer availability as a result of Covid-19.
Organisations needing additional help should contact their AGC sector representative so data can be collated for escalated requirements as appropriate.
AGC chairman Malcolm Woodhams said: ‘Some charities are going to find it very difficult for the foreseeable future. This may be due to a severe reduction in numbers of people who are able to volunteer, or the cancellation of much-needed fundraising events.’
With restrictions on social gatherings and advice toward self-isolation, this may mean volunteers are unable to contribute.
‘Unfortunately, this could have a dramatic effect upon certain organisations which provide vital or lifeline services to people in the community. With prolonged isolation, particularly for the elderly, the work of some charities is more important now than ever.’
Volunteer support is constantly delivered to people who are elderly, vulnerable, those with disabilities or health issues.
In the face of Covid-19 the local community has demonstrated strength and the willingness to offer more help.
Mr Woodhams said: ‘So many people regularly enjoy participating in some form of volunteering. It is often in times of crisis or disaster that the British enthusiasm for community spirit becomes particularly clear.’
Covid-19 as a pandemic has already had a profound impact on daily life globally.
Clear indications have been given to prepare for considerable disruption to our communities.
A States of Guernsey briefing this week emphasised that our whole community must assist in maintaining control as the situation develops to limit the effects of this virus.
‘There may be a slight irony that as we approach the 75th anniversary of Liberation Day we are entering another period of extreme global significance leading to wartime-type restrictions, as well as a spirit of people wanting to work together to get through,’ said Mr Woodhams.
While helping the community is strongly encouraged, this must be done without risk to safety.
Some charities have refocused their efforts to where they are most needed.
Every possible measure will be taken to assist charitable organisations.
Charities or event organisers are reminded by the AGC to seek accurate and locally relevant information at www.gov.gg/coronavirus.
‘Although none of us will have experienced anything like this before, we have sensible, pragmatic leadership in Guernsey’s government delivering timely and practical advice. This together with the Bailiwick’s undeniable sense of community spirit will help get us through.’
. More information can be found at www.charity.org.gg.
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