More volunteers needed for Crosspoint charity

WESTBURY’S Crosspoint charity has warned that with the government’s furlough scheme tapering off and the likelihood of a second Covid-19 wave seemingly increasing by the day, there has never been a more urgent need for volunteers to provide support to people and their families in the local community.

The organisers report, “If you have a background in health & social care, benefits, or working for a charity, then you will have the right experience to lead sessions with clients. Or if you just have a natural empathy for working with disadvantaged people, then we would very much like to hear from you. The roles are voluntary and you will be joining a welcoming and committed team of fellow volunteers working closely together.

“So, if you are interested in becoming a Crosspoint volunteer then please contact Kevin Fairman at ksaf1033@aol.com or on 07912-753790.”

The charity has this week announced that it can safely re-open. They report, “For health and safety reasons, this is not as a drop-in centre though. It is by appointment only, on the following days and times: 14.30-17.00 on Monday & Wednesday afternoons and 10.00-12.30 on Friday & Saturday mornings.

“Enquiries about food deliveries should continue to be directed to the Town Council on 01373-822232.

“If you call is about Universal Credit, a PIP form, or you just need access to a computer, then please call Crosspoint on 01373-824330.

“This phone is not however currently manned all of the time, so please leave a message on the answerphone stating clearly your name and the reason for you call. A Crosspoint volunteer will then contact you to discuss how best we can help you.” 

Crosspoint provides a place where vulnerable residents with either emotional, psychological, health, housing or financial needs, and who fail to make the most of statutory provided services by reason of their social, health and financial situations, can come for help and support.

During lockdown Crosspoint became the new home for the town council’s emergency food service. It also took over responsibility for the Neighbourhood Helpline, which was set up in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The service has now been incorporated into the ‘Crosspoint. Connect’ service.

As well as signposting callers to the council’s emergency food service, ‘Crosspoint Connect’ is also there for those who are in need of a chat, those in need of guidance with benefits like Universal Credit, and those who need to be directed to the right organisation for their problems.