La Baguette

by Jeff Hathaway

A team of volunteers has now been established Constable Steve Pallet told La Baguette. "We are very grateful to those who have come forward with the offer of their time to help the many people in our community, primarily the elderly that need support and assistance not otherwise, offered by other organisations".

The Constable added: "The Community Support Team will assist greatly in helping parishioners in need to improve their quality of life albeit this need may only be a trip to the shop or to the doctors or perhaps a reassuring phone call to make sure all is well. I believe many of us already help in looking in on an elderly neighbour but there are many more in our community who are genuinely in need of some extra help from time to time."

He also told La Baguette: "A lot of questions came out of the initial meeting and perhaps it would be useful to clarify the aims of the group and perhaps what it is not. It is first and foremost not intended to be a taxi service although there will obviously occasions when transport may be needed, perhaps to take someone to the hospital or doctors if transport has not otherwise been arranged. In any event volunteers should it be expected to do more than they are prepared to do. We have no wish either to replicate the work done by other organisations. The volunteers themselves are only committed on an ad hoc basis and the help they may be able to offer may be limited. It is however designed to help those in genuine need in a variety of ways including light assistance around the house or maybe prepare a light meal or simply companionship."

"We will do our best to offer assistance when requested, but it cannot always be guaranteed" The Constable said.

The group has 20 volunteers 'but we would like more' said Constable Pallett. A register has been set up at the Parish Hall for anyone interested in becoming a volunteer or in receiving help. Please ring Jenny Anfray (office hours only) on 741141.