The Association of Guernsey Charities has emailed its members – over 320 charities – to gather details from organisations that may find it hard to continue delivering their services over the coming weeks.

The group’s chairman Malcolm Woodhams is encouraging all organisations to urgently review their services, as well as events that are planned over the months ahead.

“We recognise that some charities are going to find it very difficult for the foreseeable future,” he said. “This may be due to a severe reduction in numbers of people who are able to volunteer, or the cancellation of much needed fundraising events.

“Unfortunately, this could potentially have a dramatic effect upon certain organisations which provide vital or lifeline services to people in the community. With the need for a prolonged period of isolation, particularly for the elderly, the work of some charities is more important now than ever.”

The association is especially keen to hear from charities that have identified the need for additional help so they can directly assist people in the community. Organisations in need should contact their AGC sector representative in the first instance.

“The Channel Islands have always been incredibly fortunate that so many people regularly enjoy participating in some form of volunteering,” said Mr Woodhams. “However, it is often in times of crisis or disaster that the British enthusiasm for community spirit becomes particularly clear. The benefit of voluntary activity to our island community is important in so many ways.”

“There may be a slight irony that, as we approach the 75th anniversary of Liberation Day, we are entering another period of extreme global significance leading to wartime-type restrictions, as well as a spirit of people wanting to work together to get through. However, whilst we would encourage anyone and everyone to see what they may be able to do to help their fellow islanders, people must ensure that they do not put their own safety at risk.”

“Although none of us will have experienced anything like this before, we have sensible, pragmatic leadership in Guernsey’s government delivering timely and practical advice. This, together with the Bailiwick’s undeniable sense of community spirit, will help get us through.”

Pictured top: File image and inset: Malcolm Woodhams.