An appeal has been launched for volunteers to join a new network of people who will help to improve health and wellbeing in Nottingham City.
Community Champions will work in their local neighbourhoods to signpost people to advice and support on health issues – as well as promoting ways to improve wellbeing.
Organised by Nottingham City Council and local NHS services, the Community Champions will build on the strong partnership work established during the pandemic and have an initial focus on encouraging more people to get their Covid-19 vaccination.
Applications are invited from everywhere in the city. No experience is needed and full training and support will be provided.
Cllr Adele Williams, Portfolio Holder for Adults and Health at Nottingham City Council, said: “I’m proud of the way people in Nottingham pulled together to help each other during the Covid pandemic. We’re keen to build on that good work by creating a new network of local Community Champions who will continue to support people in their neighbourhoods.
“We’re looking for volunteers from across the city who can help to shape this new network of Champions – people who really understand how their local communities work and what is important to them. Our Champions will support the City Council and local NHS to help improve health and wellbeing. This could include sharing information with family and friends, local groups, parents and carers at the school gates or people you work with, putting posters in shops, restaurants, pubs, notice boards or community spaces and sharing posts on social media.”
The volunteers will be supported by a Programme Manager based at the City Council. Activities for the Community Champions will include:
- Sharing information with people you know in a way that best suits you.
- Sharing information with the NHS and the council about the health concerns and needs in their communities
- Talking to people about your Community Champion role and encourage others to be Champions
- Supporting other Champions
- Attending regular online meetings to keep up to date with the latest information and guidance
- Attending events to share information
- Taking part in promotional activities, for example, giving out leaflets or having an information stall at an event
Cllr Williams added: “You do not need any special skills or experience to be a Community Champion – we’ll make sure you get all of the training and support you need.
“This is a really exciting challenge. We proved during the pandemic that the way we support each other in our communities is important for our health and wellbeing.” To apply for the volunteering opportunity, click here: https://www.nottinghamcvs.co.uk/volunteering/search-for-opportunities/14424