Open letter to thank volunteer groups
We have written an open letter to say thanks and pay tribute to the 400+ community volunteer groups that have been set-up to support Wiltshire's communities during the ongoing COVID-19 situation.
The letter is from Cllr Philip Whitehead, Leader of Wiltshire Council; Cllr Allison Bucknell, Cabinet Member for Communities; Alistair Cunningham, Chief Executive Officer and Terence Herbert, Chief Executive Officer
You can read it below:
It has been an extremely difficult period for everyone, however, the way communities up and down the county have responded to COVID-19 has been nothing short of inspirational.
Across Wiltshire more than 400 groups have mobilised with energy and dedication, and just like ourselves, all with the focus of looking after people in their communities and making sure they have what they need to get through this situation as best as possible.
To all those dedicated people, in the four corners of the county, we say thank you. We are proud that Wiltshire is leading the way in its community response and want to pay tribute to each and every resident who is going above and beyond to support one another.
For everyone who has delivered food, phoned people to check they're ok, picked up medicine you should be really proud. It's testament to the continued commitment of people, that more than a month into this situation we are still regularly having to update our Community Groups Directory because new groups and volunteers are still emerging to help tackle this situation head-on.
We must also thank the town and parish councils; the voluntary, community and charity organisations; and all our partners, for the support they are providing the volunteers and for coming together to support this common cause.
We have forged new working relationships and strengthened existing ones as a result of this situation, and that will put us in good stead as we face the challenges ahead.
Throughout, we have shared valuable information, insight and support to help us all work together as closely and effectively as possible.
When we move into the recovery element of this situation the continuation of this strong partnership working will be vital, and we'll work closely with our residents and listen and learn from their response to this too.
Once again, thank you for everything you are doing. It's comforting to know that we're all in this together.
Yours sincerely
Cllr Philip Whitehead, Leader of Wiltshire Council; Cllr Allison Bucknell, Cabinet Member for Communities; Alistair Cunningham, Chief Executive Officer; Terence Herbert, Chief Executive Officer
