Advice for volunteers on restarting activities safely
As restrictions start to lift across the UK, some volunteers are restarting activities, while others will keep things virtual for now.
Whatever you choose, we have resources to support you.
Over the past year we’ve worked together to pause activities or move them online to minimise the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
Volunteers run almost 1,500 activities for people with Parkinson’s and the people in their lives. From zumba over Zoom to newsletters dropped through the door, they’ve transformed this support to keep people connected throughout the pandemic.
For many, it’s been a chance to find new ways to meet others living with Parkinson’s. This playlist on our Youtube channel has many examples of how volunteers and the wider community have found ways to stay together, even while we’ve had to be apart.
But, we also know that the coronavirus restrictions, and a lack of in-person support, have had a big impact on the lives of people affected by Parkinson’s.
Getting back to activities
So, as governments in all UK nations plan an end to restrictions, we’ve refreshed our toolkit to support you to plan in-person activities, based on the feedback of volunteers.
Many volunteers have said they’re ready to consider getting out in person again. Others are keen to keep it virtual for now, or have reflected that now is the time to take a step back from volunteering.
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Resources to support you
Our starting in-person activities toolkit, aimed at volunteers running activities, has had a refresh based on volunteer feedback. Using the toolkit, your local know-how and speaking with your staff contact is the best place to start planning activities. Find the toolkit on Assemble, our volunteer hub, or speak to your staff contact.
If you’re looking for inspiration to stay active virtually, our exercise and physical activity hub has videos, articles and tips from professionals to help you.
Many volunteer run activities can now be accessed online, no matter where you live. See what’s available, and if you have an activity you’d like to open to all, let your staff contact know.
As lockdown restrictions continue to change, you may feel worried or anxious. Richard Brown, Professor of Neuropsychology and Clinical Neuroscience, has advice on navigating getting out and about if you are feeling anxious.