The current UK lockdown has presented challenges for all of us. For the lucky ones it’s really little more than an inconvenience, but the more vulnerable in society may be less able to access the support on which they rely 👨👩👧👦
However, at times like these it’s also heartening to see the extent to which people pull together and look out for one another… and our Plum community is certainly no exception!
We’ve already seen a +18% increase in the average amount donated to charity by our awesome Plumsters in the past month, compared to February 💸
So it seems many of you have been busy looking for new ways to connect and bring about some positivity. After all, it’s also a great way to stay sane and stop yourself climbing the walls 🧗♀️
Obviously we all want to do our part by being responsible and not contributing to the spread of Coronavirus, but it’s amazing you've not been deterred from finding new ways to spread the love 💜
There’s a clearly a widespread desire to make a difference, but it can sometimes be difficult to know where to start....
If you’d prefer to focus your attention on an initiative in your own area then you can donate to your local hospital via their website. Alternatively, check with your council for charities or food banks who could use your support 🤝
For those of you who’d like some further inspiration, here just a few of the charities whose work is supporting the nation during this tough time:
NHS Charities Together
https://www.nhscharitiestogether.co.uk/
This is a group organisation covering over 140 individual NHS charities. It provides extra services, primarily aimed supporting the wellbeing of hospital staff and patients not covered by government funding.
The money is used for care packs, volunteers, gifts for staff, and long-term mental health support for anyone involved with the NHS 👩⚕️
Millions have already been raised through social media challenges etc. (including a monster contribution of £25m by Tom Moore, the 99-year-old man who completed 100 laps of his garden 🏃♂️). Amazing effort!
The Big Give: Covid-19 Appeal
https://donate.thebiggive.org.uk/covid-19
This is an appeal that has been set up by the National Emergencies Trust.
They provide a platform to boost charity fundraising capabilities by bringing individuals, charities and philanthropists together, in the hope that this can multiply the impact 🌱
The best part is that anything you donate here is doubled by philanthropists!
The Trussel Trust
https://www.trusselltrust.org/make-a-donation/
This trust operates 1,200 food bank centres in a UK network that provides emergency support for those most in need.
You can help by donating money, food, or by volunteering. And because food banks have seen a surge during Coronavirus, you can be sure your donation will be hugely appreciated during this time!
Age UK
https://donate.ageuk.org.uk/public/donate.aspx?content=coronavirus-b&maxy=b
Corona disproportionately affects the elderly, and many older people are having to isolate themselves at home to avoid infection 🏘
Age UK provides 24hr support and services for older people, ranging from befriending services, to assisting with food delivery 🚚
Their advice line has seen an unprecedented number of calls since the crisis hit, peaking at an 88% increase in demand.
Mind
The enforced isolation of lockdown is affecting people is many different ways. For those suffering from mental health conditions, this can mean that they're unable to access regular support, which could in-turn worsen their condition.
Mind provides an information portal, advice line, and support about mental health for people who are still able to access it remotely 🤗
Refuge
One particularly ugly consequence of the lockdown, is the associated rise in domestic violence which has been reported.
Refuge provides a safe space for people who have suffered domestic violence, along with community-based services and the National Domestic Abuse Helpline to offer additional support.
Stay safe out there!
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