Community Shoppers are launched by Beith Trust to help those in need during crisis

The Beith Trust Community Shoppers team will assist locals by doing shopping and prescription runs for those who are unable to get out on their own due to shielding or self isolating as the Scottish government maintains the message to stay home as much as possible.

Beith Trust believes in neighbours helping neighbours through the coronavirus pandemic and so is delighted to unveil the free service for those within Garnock Valley.

Emma Madden at Beith Trust, who is heading up the service, said: “We have got a pool of volunteers for the Community Shoppers service who have all been interviewed and vetted and will carry identification at all times. They will look to see who they can help in the community, particularly those who can’t get out on their own.

“People let us know what they need and our Community Shoppers will help them with that, whether it be shopping or picking up prescriptions. The person receiving the service only pays in delivery of the goods so there will be no need for money upfront.”

The service will be rolled out this week and payments can be made over the phone to ensure minimal contact with others.

Emma said: “We’re following clear procedures along with government guidelines to keep our customers and volunteers safe as that’s the most important thing.

“We try to appoint the same volunteers to the same people each time as well so they can build up trust between them and get to know one another. It’s good for people to have continuity and to know who they’re working with.

“It’s going to be a great service and I’m delighted to see the community coming together in this way.

“One of our straplines is ‘neighbours helping neighbours’ and that’s what we’re hoping for.”

For more information contact 01505 227 440 or emma.madden@beithtrust.org

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