THE need for volunteers in Ludlow and the surrounding area is as important as ever but is changing.

Erica Garner, a trustee of Hands Together Ludlow and Operational and Community Lead for Pulling Together Ludlow, is looking forward to how the groups can adapt.

“The impetus to support people who are in need has always been the driving force behind Hands Together, and it has been a privilege to be part of the amazing community support during the Covid-19 crisis,” she said.

“Hands Together will continue to deliver seamlessly all of the activities that were set up to tackle the Covid-19 emergency for as long as they are still required.

“Since the relaxation of government rules as lockdown was eased, there is a reducing number of requests for the collection of prescriptions and shopping as family, friends and neighbours have been able to provide that support.”

One of the areas where the work is more important than ever is supporting people who are lonely and isolated.

“There are still many people who are lonely or isolated, who are receiving regular calls and a growing number, from the befriending service,” added Ms Garner.

“Some of these people have quite complex needs.

“The demand for the delivery of meals is also growing and we anticipate this may continue to rise.

“We are also very conscious that there will be a long-term legacy from the pandemic, which will have an impact on the economy, with businesses closing and jobs being lost.”