Many athletes have been spending time volunteering in their communities helping in the battle against COVID-19. Here we highlight some of the great work they’ve been up to.
VI Judoka athlete Chris Skelley has been isolating with his partner, wheelchair tennis athlete Louise Hunt. As well as keeping active at home they have been volunteering in the local community with the charity Phoenix Enterprise.
“Many of the people who use the charity live on their own, so we have been delivering food parcels once a week and having a chat to ensure they are ok. It is important we keep in touch, being in isolation by yourself must be difficult so even a five-minute chat can really change someone’s day.
“I have volunteered previously with Phoenixon my days off and I love it. I’m glad we can help people in this difficult time. The biggest thing we can all do is check in with one another and stay strong as a community.”
British Para Taekwondo’s Matt Bush has been working for his family’s business to help combat the pandemic by transporting food supplies to local shops in Wales.
He told Paralympics GB:” It’s nice to know that you’re doing something to help and contribute, no matter how small it is.”
“The council asked if any of us would be keen to make calls to those within the community who are shielding and isolated and in need of some form of support. it has been great to help those who have been so grateful for a chat and have some contact with someone." He shared with British Curling earlier this week.
“The pandemic and lockdown has been extremely difficult for everyone to adjust to, but it is nice to know that there is also some good coming out of this situation.”
It is not just physically that athletes have been supporting the community but virtually too. Helen Freeman and Ghaz Choudhry, part of the GB wheelchair basketball programme have joined junior clubs on Zoom, sharing their experiences with the next generation. And British swimmers James Guy and Duncan Scott have been jumping on Zoom to answer their local swimming clubs’ questions.
Para Rower Ben Pritchard has been offering free virtual PE lessons to those who may be struggling to balance home schooling with work during lockdown. Alongside hosting online sessions for Swansea Rowing Club every two weeks.
Alongside our athletes, thanks to National Lottery players, up to £600 million has been made available to support communities throughout the UK during the Coronavirus crisis.
Thank you.