The Eastbourne group helping the elderly and vulnerable during the pandemic

Shopping deliveries, prescription pick-ups, and befriending phone calls are all part of a service offered by a handful of thoughtful individuals.

Nikki Pink set up the Facebook page ‘Helping The Elderly And Vulnerable During Coronavirus Outbreak Eastbourne’ back in March, and they have so far helped more than 100 people in town.

The NHS worker said, “From me sitting on my sofa wanting to help, I can’t believe how big it’s grown.

“I wanted to be able to help people and we are helping so many, more than I could have imagined.”

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There are currently around 100 volunteers who have been DBS checked and are able to help post people’s parcels, pick up birthday presents, and many more tasks which those who are shielding are unable to do.

Other group members are sewing masks and even making wash bags for NHS staff to put their dirty uniforms in, and pharmacies have the group’s number so anyone in need of a prescription can be helped.

Nikki said, “The feedback’s been brilliant. There are so many happy people.

“I have recruited some fabulous friends. The volunteers, a few have been furloughed, I think it’s good for them as well as helping others.”

Nikki says the elderly people she helps are very appreciative of what they are doing.

“One of my ladies I see on a Wednesday said ‘I don’t know what i would have done without you’,” she said.

“She’s really looking forward to it. I think it’s actually seeing someone once a week that’s good.

“If they are shielding for 12 weeks they might not see someone else, especially if they’re living alone. I think it’s important for them in general.

“If I could find a way of doing this kind of thing for a job I think I would. I think I’ve found my calling.

“One of them said ‘you have sent us an angel’. That’s means so much.”

To find out more, visit ‘Helping The Elderly And Vulnerable During Coronavirus Outbreak Eastbourne’ on Facebook.

You can also email [email protected]

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