Thousands sign up to volunteer with Scotland's coronavirus response
The First Minister announced 10,000 had signed up to volunteer in just a few hours
A total of 10,000 Scots signed up to a volunteering campaign launched in the wake of the coronavirus crisis in just four hours.
The new Scotland Cares initiative went live on Monday morning.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the total of those registering interest includes about 5,000 retired medical professionals and students.
“These new recruits will make an important difference to the capacity of our health and care services at this time,” Ms Sturgeon said.
The First Minister added the overall number of volunteers showed “many people are responding to this difficult period by showing a sense of community and solidarity”.
Speaking at the Scottish Government's daily Covid-19 briefing, she said: “In just four hours this morning since we formally launched the Scotland Cares campaign we have had 10,000 people registering their interest in volunteering.”
Scotland Cares has been set up to recruit volunteers to help combat the Covid-19 outbreak through a programme co-ordinated by the British Red Cross.
Volunteers will only be asked to carry out tasks that involve leaving their home once a day.
Only those who are not isolating or in health risk categories can take part.
The Scottish Government is also aiming to recruit returning NHS workers for existing voluntary roles in the health service and volunteers for other charities or community groups.
Ms Sturgeon said: “We know there are a huge number of people who are already volunteering and many more with a desire to help their communities, public services and voluntary organisations. And for that we are incredibly grateful.
“This (campaign website) means that those who are able to can contribute in a way which makes a real difference.
“It helps people to help each other, as we all get through this together.”
Social Security and Older People Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “The Scottish Government is working closely with local government and a range of partners to co-ordinate the volunteering effort across Scotland.
“By providing this national portal we will be able to connect people to where their contribution is most needed in their local community, ensuring everyone can play their part in helping Scotland come through this pandemic.
“For some, that may involve roles responding to specific needs in health and social care.
“For others, it may be that we draw on their skills, enthusiasm and energy in the weeks and months to come.”
Volunteers who want to support their communities should visit www.ReadyScotland.org
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