Social Action in Tiverton During Lockdown

Due to lockdown all of Tiverton’s planned projects and events had to be put on hold.

This hasn’t stopped the Social Action volunteers engaging and interacting with staff on-line,  Volunteers have suggested ways they can still do positive work within their community.    

‘Our intergenerational work has been for young volunteers to write to their local care homes, helping residents feel less isolated. Creating Rainbows for their windows for all to see and enjoy as they walk by. Creating a boredom buster page on-line for other users of the centre to participate in a project that encourages all young people to up-cycle things that are no longer used. Playing a positive role in their local community by helping a parent make protective face masks, shopping for vulnerable family members. Also, ensuring their parents (who are key workers) come home to a cooked meal after a long shift and helping with jobs around the house. Volunteers are continuing to support staff in delivering on-line sessions during the lockdown, helping to run fun activities for young people.

The volunteers have had continuing contact with staff online in recent times. They have said that the many projects have helped them through their anxieties, isolation, mental health and their well-being during this time.’

Tiverton’s Social Action Group have been active in working and helping the community during this time, they have been:

• Delivering shopping & prescriptions

• Making face masks

• Helping with gardens

• Sending Letters and Cards

• Contacting friends and family

• Painting Rainbows

• Baking for family and friends

• Walking dogs

• Helping trial our new online Youth Club & Zoom Group calls

The money provided by the National lottery Community Fund has enabled Tiverton youth centre to expand and grow the Social Action projects and events. Young people have been supported and encouraged to participate in these. Many young people that took part have expressed ‘working in groups has given them the skills to make new friendships be more confident and overcome social anxiety.’